Crossing the Rubicon

Julius Caesar spoke the immortal words, "alea iacta est" before leading his rebellious legion across the river Rubicon to overthrow the Roman Senate. That phrase translates into, "the die is cast." Since then, the term "crossing the Rubicon" has come to mean passing the point of no return, or making a fateful decision. In fact NASA uses it as a code for the go or no go decision point in any space mission. I have crossed that point - in terms of this project - today.

More specificially, I was doing some laborious paperwork (a new master list of shots based on the revised animatic) and realized that I have made the final decisions about this piece that will allow me to finish it. The number of shots is now set in stone, the look of the piece is finished - or near to be finished once I finalize the look of the clock. I'm getting ready to do color tests, the rough animation is literally half complete, and I'm getting ready to actually write the final credits for the film.

Honestly, to be at this point is rather astonishing. I'm very pleased.

But, this is just a moment's respite. There is still half the animation to do - and these will be longer, tougher shots to complete. So, back to the grindstone I go. But, at least I feel like I've accomplished something.

Maybe I am finally getting out from behind the eight ball. We'll see...