The crew went over previs content made for an earlier module in the early phases of production. This choice was initially made to save time, but it also exposed a basic problem: the original story, which focused on a grandmaster and a budding prodigy, was too grandiose for the project’s timeline. Dual-character dynamics, complex body mechanics, and a back-and-forth structure that required a lot of animation effort were key components of the early design.
It became evident throughout pre-production that trying to completely develop both characters would not give them the depth they deserved. This is shown in between my previs, which shows both characters exchanging what would be dialogue to just a monologue in my storyboard with the main protagonist.
a more unified emotional journey that highlights the grandmaster’s obsession, perfectionism. fewer shots, enabling more focus on performance, timing, and staging. Better animation quality since more time could be spent on polish and subtlety rather than character juggling.
During this time, stylistic experiments from previous personal work could also be revisited. Checkmate’s visual identity was shaped via tests in cel-shading, outline rendering, and stylised lighting, which helped establish the project’s tone and feel. The plot acquired clarity and artistic direction despite being shorter, turning constraints into a deliberate creative decision.