What is your name and your current occupation?
My name is Christian Brierley and I am an animator.
Not sure how crazy these jobs are, but for a short time I worked as a contsruction worker and a termite exterminator.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
I’m proud to be apart of the movie Hop because it was my first official credit on a live action animated feature. Woohooo!!!!
I became interested in animation while watching my favorite cartoons as a kid. Looney Toons, Ren and Stimpy and Rocko’s Modern life were the best!
Originally I’m from Trinidad an island in the carribean. I went to Miami to learn and study 3D Animation then decided to move out to LA to live out that dream.
A typical day for me would be to get to work for 9am, respond to emails concerning my shot assignments, look at other animators shots to get inspired and then begin working on my own shots. Then later in the morning I would have animation dailies with my peers, supervisor and animation director. They would look over my work and give me any notes that are needed. In the afternoon I continue to work until animation rounds, where my supervisor swings by to check on my progress for the day. Then in the evening I head home to relax for the rest of the night.
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
My favorite part of the job would be the blocking stage of animation. I enjoy creating poses and ideas first before I jump into spline.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
It would probobly be animation dailies because its so nerve wracking to show off your work to your peers and supervisors.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
The most difficult part in this buisness for me would be the numerous amounts of overtime and how hard it is to find full-time positions. It’s not easy out there.
Well right I work on a Linux based machine and Ive been trained to work with the companies propritary 3D software.
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
I’ve meet a couple of animation greats through different events and jobs. Some notable ones would be Stan Lee, John Musker, Ron Clements, Andreas Deja and Eric Goldberg.
Describe a tough situation you had in life.
I believe the toughest situation I’ve had was when I convinced my wife to move to California with no job insight. It took me over 9 months of applying to every animation job posting and working continuously on my demo reel before I landed my first paid gig. I was so excited and learned it’s true that if you work hard and want it bad enough your dreams will come true.
Any side projects or you’re working on or hobbies you’d like to share details of?
I’m currently taking iAnimate on the side to help improve my animation chops. I also have a short film in mind, that I’d love to sit down and write.
I don’t think I have any unusual talents to say. But if I find one I’ll let you know.
Wow I never thought I would get that question, since I consider myself a student of animation. If there is anything I could say, it would be to never give up, never stop believing in yourself. If you work hard and always have a can do attitude you will definitely get far in life. Believe me.
