How were The Lego Movies Created?

Legos, the colorful building blocks that have delighted children and adults for decades, have now become a way to tell stories through motion pictures. From an idea shared by a guy playing with Lego minifigures to the iconic animated feature films, the journey to creating The Lego Movie is both fascinating and meticulous. This article delves into the creative and technical process behind these films, exploring how they were made and the techniques used to bring them to life.

The Inspiration Background

It all began in 2009 when Billund, Denmark, was buzzing with excitement. According to Dan Lin, a producer at Warner Bros., the idea for a Lego movie was pitched to LEGO Group's headquarters. Bill and Daniel Hageman, the writers, were also part of this groundbreaking project. This article from the Wall Street Journal provides an in-depth look at the origins and the thought process behind the film.

The Creation Process

The story of The Lego Movie is as much about imagination as it is about the technology employed in its creation. One of the most unique aspects of these films is how they were made. Unlike traditional stop-motion animation, where physical models are manipulated and digitally captured in sequence, The Lego Movies used a combination of CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) and 3D scanning to achieve a stop-motion look.

Techniques and Technologies

CGI Simulating Stop-Motion: The films themselves were essentially CGI simulations that mimicked the look of stop-motion animation. This technique involved creating detailed digital models of Lego pieces and environments, and then animating them in a way that would resemble the individual movements of Lego sculptures in a stop-motion context.

Scan and Realistic Detail: In addition to CGI, some Lego bricks were scanned to increase the level of detail and realism. This process allowed for intricate textures, scratches, and dents that would be nearly impossible to achieve with purely digital models. By scanning real Lego pieces, the filmmakers could capture the authenticity of the toys, making the digital creations more believable.

Behind-the-Scenes Reality

While the films appear to be entirely CGI, the end credits reveal a different reality. According to the filmmakers, there were actual physical sets and props built for certain scenes, especially those that needed a more grounded, tangible touch. This hybrid approach of using both digital and real-world elements resulted in a unique and compelling visual experience.

The Impact and Legacy

The success of The Lego Movie not only brought joy to audiences of all ages but also paved the way for subsequent Lego-themed films. These movies demonstrated the potential of combining traditional play with cutting-edge technology, creating a new form of storytelling that resonated with both adults and children.

Conclusion

From the innocent play of a Lego enthusiast to the sophisticated use of CGI and 3D scanning, the creation of The Lego Movie is a testament to the power of imagination and innovation. These films continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of creativity and technology, making them a timeless gem in the world of animated features.