Analog (opens in new tab) and Nexus (opens in new tab) have produced a captivating new ad for Honda (opens in new tab). The collaboration between the creative studio and production company, both based in London, sees some of the automobile and motorcycle manufacturer's most recognisable inventions recreated as miniature models.
From Rubik's cube-esque engines to Russian-doll hatchbacks, the short is a memorising mix of slick transitions and sleight of hand.
The animated idents, which can be seen on Channel 4 (opens in new tab), are the work of directorial duo Smith & Foulke (opens in new tab)s, commisioned by ad agency Wieden + Kennedy (opens in new tab).
"Although we have slightly different backgrounds," Analog's Mike Merron says, "we have all always had one foot in visual effects. We focus on quality of our output and making sure our artists have a good time working in our studio.
"It's a very competitive market but since Analog is owned and run by artists we feel we are far more flexible and versatile than many of our competitors. Our strengths are photo realism, problem solving and storytelling."
Analog was responsible for FX animation, compositing and grading, as well as many practical aspects of the shoot. Modeling duties were shared with Nexus, with the production company also providing character animations and secondary, physical movements of the objects.
Check out the full video below: