It’s surprising how often discussions about animated shows overlook the incredible studios that actually bring them to life. When it comes to series like the visually stunning Centaurworld, much of the praise rightly goes to the creators and the overall artistic vision. However, the sheer artistry and technical brilliance of the animation itself often get lost in the shuffle. And while we might instantly recognize and appreciate iconic voice performances, like perhaps even the memorable Voice Of Doctor Doofenshmirtz from another beloved animated series, it’s crucial to shine a spotlight on the animation studios themselves. In the case of Centaurworld, a significant portion of the animation magic comes from the talented team at MERCURY FILMWORKS, a Canadian studio that deserves far more recognition.
It’s important to set the record straight: Centaurworld‘s animation wasn’t solely the product of Netflix’s in-house team. In fact, the vast majority of the animation, particularly for the vibrant and whimsical Centaurworld itself, was meticulously crafted by Mercury Filmworks in Canada. A Korean studio, Red Dog Culture, handled the animation for the Rider/Horse world segments. This division of labor is common in animation production, but the contribution of Mercury Filmworks to the unique aesthetic of Centaurworld is undeniable and should be acknowledged whenever the show’s animation is praised.
Contrary to some assumptions, animation for Netflix-produced shows isn’t typically done directly at Netflix. Studios like Mercury Filmworks are the unsung heroes, the powerhouses that possess the artistic talent and technical expertise to translate creative visions into animated realities. Mercury Filmworks animated all of the Centaurworld segments using Harmony, industry-standard software for 2D animation.
The misconception that James Baxter, a legendary animator, was directly involved in animating Centaurworld also needs clarification. While Baxter’s expertise in horse animation is widely respected, and he may have served as a consultant at times, it’s crucial to understand that he didn’t animate scenes for the show itself. His masterclass on drawing horses likely served as a valuable resource for designers and potentially some animators at Mercury Filmworks. However, Mercury Filmworks already had a strong foundation in animating quadruped characters, thanks to their previous work on shows like Tangled and Lion Guard.
So, why does Centaurworld boast such breathtaking animation? The answer is simple: Mercury Filmworks is home to incredibly talented animators and animation directors. For over 20 years, Mercury Filmworks has been a force in the animation industry, contributing animation, background art, and visual effects to a wide array of shows. You’ve undoubtedly encountered their work before, even if you didn’t realize it.
Animated scene from Centaurworld showcasing vibrant colors and character design
Character design sheet featuring diverse centaur characters from Centaurworld
Close-up shot of a Centaurworld character highlighting detailed animation
Dynamic action pose of characters in Centaurworld animated style
Group of Centaurworld characters in a colorful and expressive scene
It’s a common trend in the animation industry that 2D animation work is often outsourced from the United States to studios in Canada and overseas. Unfortunately, the studios responsible for the animation frequently don’t receive the public credit they deserve. This can be frustrating, especially considering the immense effort and talent contributed by hundreds of individuals on the production side. Thankfully, Centaurworld made a point of crediting these individuals, which is commendable and a step in the right direction for industry transparency.
James Baxter’s animation skills are undeniable, and his masterclasses are undoubtedly insightful. However, it’s vital to remember that incredible animation isn’t solely the domain of a few celebrated names. The animators at Mercury Filmworks, along with countless others in studios around the world, are the true driving force behind the beauty and artistry we see on screen. They are the ones who poured their talent and dedication into making Centaurworld such a visually captivating experience.
To truly appreciate the artistry and skill of the animators at Mercury Filmworks, explore their work and the artists they feature on their Instagram. Giving credit where credit is due is essential, and in the world of animation, studios like Mercury Filmworks are the often-overlooked heroes who deserve our recognition and applause.
