© 2022
College Thesis Film
The Trail beyond Highland Road is a 2D animated dramedic short focusing on the consequences of deforestation. It follows a man and his daughter in a prosperous suburban town who notice their forest is in ruins through an endangered species of deer.
Inspired by my up-bringing in an urban town with poorly treated forests, this film was important for me in tackling heavy handed environmental issues as my senior thesis film at the Maryland Institute College of Art. Made within an 8-9 month schedule, the short went through change after change before finally being released online and through festivals.
The short is a multi award winner throughout festivals, admired for its emotional storytelling and strong morality.
Concept Art
This was used to figure out the difference in lighting within the forest. Lighting touch ups by Allison Warren.
This background was to used in the final cut until my advisors decided it wasn't needed.
Prephase sketches of the daughter before any animation was handled.
This was used to figure out the difference in lighting within the forest. Lighting touch ups by Allison Warren.
Production Storyboards
A thumbnail version of how I envisioned the ending.
End Credit
Boards & Thumbnails
(special thanks to Jessica Rae Lipinsky)
We had an idea to let the deer follow the father and daughter via a trail of food.
A rejected idea of the town community helping out.
Jessica's take on the daughter helping the deer out.
We had an idea to let the deer follow the father and daughter via a trail of food.