Watch this film and understand the context...

If you don't understand the context in which this short animated film was made, you'd probably quickly dismiss it. However, this would be a huge mistake as it's super-important to the history of computer generated animation.

Back in 1985, CGI was almost unknown. "The Adventures of André and Wally B.", the very first experimental film by Pixar Studios was created just the year before and the famous "Luxo, Jr." did not debut until 1986. And, such projects took years and were created using massive mainframe computers--as PCs were not fast enough or complex enough to do this sort of work. And, most importantly, rendering software did not exist and had to be created by anyone wanting to do such work. It was the most primitive time for the most primitive sort of CGI.

In light of this, the strange shapes of the characters in "Tuber's Two Step" could be excused. Despite the title, they don't look like potatoes--in fact it's hard to tell WHAT they are supposed to be. The story is incredibly simple and the musical accompaniment works well. It's probably NOT an animation the average person would want to see today unless you are into the history of film or CGI. But, wow, did Chris Wedge do a great job just using the computers at Ohio State University to produce this little film. It must have taken FOREVER to make!

Computer animation is a technique in which computers are used to generate animated sequences digitally. Unlike traditional hand-drawn animation, which involves creating individual frames by hand, computer animation relies on digital processes to generate scenery, character models, lighting, and movement.

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Animation is a form of visual storytelling that involves creating visual art and motion through the use of various techniques and technologies. In animation, images are manipulated to create the illusion of movement, bringing characters, objects, and environments to life. Animation can encompass a wide range of styles, themes, and intended audiences, making it a diverse and versatile form of storytelling.

Daveigh Chase, Rumi Hiiragi, and Mari Natsuki in Spirited Away (2001)

The comedy genre refers to a category of entertainment that aims to amuse and entertain audiences by using humor, wit, and comedic situations. Comedies are created with the primary intention of eliciting laughter and providing lighthearted enjoyment. They encompass a wide range of styles, tones, and themes, appealing to various tastes and audiences.

Will Ferrell, Angela Grillo, and Lap-Gei Cheung in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

The family genre features stories specifically created to be suitable for a wide range of age groups within a family. Family-oriented content is designed to be enjoyed by both children and adults, often providing entertainment that is wholesome, relatable, and appropriate for all members of a family to watch or experience together.

Drew Barrymore and Pat Welsh in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

The short form refers to creative works characterized by their brevity and concise storytelling. Unlike full-length feature films, short films have a running time of less than 45 minutes, while TV shorts have a running time of less than 22 minutes.

Benedict Cumberbatch in The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)

The whole Tuber family rejoices when Junior learns to walk!

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Tuber's Two Step

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