The REAL Cost of Making an Animated Series

There is a cost that comes with any creative endeavor. Some of it is money, but there's... a lot more to it. ...and did we ever get around to knowing who's voicing the character Aecious? Let's figure it all out.
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[@tridek1949]

You can tell there's been a timeskip because Brookes has an updated character design.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

🤣🤣

[@skistorm739]

@@CharacterDesignForge your cool thinks understand the last time I comment you and I mean you what you said what their made of confused me and can the storm clouds corrupted things and all most alive

[@jademonass2954]

I think society in general is starting to understand that indie projects really take time to make things like silksong, deltarune, the ENA animations, people are getting used to waiting more for a project they know are going to be high quality could you imagine if one of those coming out with cyberpunk-level roughness? they would never recover so thank you for taking time to make sure it actually comes out to a level of quality, thats all we want

[@adistantwail8419]

Maybe the real Stormfellers were the beards we grew along the way.

[@sylvanshroom]

I relate so hard to the story of being more upset that someone was waiting. Even when things are out of our hands it's so hard to feel like you somehow did wrong by someone or otherwise inconvenienced them. I am so pumped to hear about Aecious!! And dang the new textures are looking tasty. So excited for this project as always!!

[@kinocomix]

I dedicated most of my 20's to finishing a graphic novel that i published on the internet for free while working any job i could get my hands on. a lot of my peers have successful careers and at times it feels weird, because all i have to show for it is a very big comic book. making art is only worth it if you make it worth it. I still remember an email i got three weeks after it was done, of someone who had just binged the whole thing and was crying. the next day i started work on the one i'm currently doing.

[@TeeKetch]

Continue wishing you all the best Brookes. You're doing things the right way and that is commendable. I'll be ready to scream out about Stormfellers as soon as its out and make sure everyone sees it haha

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Hehe you rock man thank you

[@SouthernShotty]

Nice to hear you reflect some of my own feelings. Thanks for the shout out and good luck on the journey

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Absolutely!! Thanks!

[@alternatingthursdays]

Man, did this hit close to home. I may not be working on an indie animated series, but as someone who has a lot of creative ambition and lots of ideas/plans/goals this made me feel very seen. It's absolutely incredible how much effort you're putting into this. I'm very excited to see what your pilot brings, and I absolutely know it'll be worth the wait. Hearing other people talk about the struggles of being a creative/taking on big projects makes me feel relieved to know I'm not the only one struggling or taking a long time. You're a massive inspiration to me, and you have been for a long time now! You're doing a wonderful job!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Really appreciate it!

[@RooNelo]

This came out at good time. I’ve had a stop motion short film idea in my head for years now, but it’s still in the early stages. I keep falling into the trap of “I have to learn more or get better at this before I can do that.” I definitely feel the soul, weight, and debt factors you mentioned too. I don’t intend to give up on it but part of me wishes I didn’t announce the project. That said, I do enjoy any and all updates you give on your project. It's looking awesome!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Appreciate the kind words-you got this!

[@All4Tanuki]

HE RETURNS :D

[@CharacterDesignForge]

When you looked behind you and only saw one set of footprints in the sand that was me not uploading for almost 100 days

[@Lobstro]

Congratulations on getting such a legend to be a voice actor for your show! I hear Quilver is really picky about what roles he plays, so good on you for getting him to agree to this!

[@Iddstar]

I got shingles a few years ago due to the volume of stress in my life. It's awful and nobody seems to acknowledge how across the board crappy it makes you feel, or how long it takes to feel better. I'm sorry you've been ill with it on top of the mountain you've been climbing to make this all happen. Personally, I find it deeply inspiring, and I am nothing but patiently excited for the pilot. I hope you're able to take care of yourself as well as taking care of everything else!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Ugh sorry you dealt with it too, I hate how it causes more problems on top of the ones that brought it on in the first place - hugely appreciate it!

[@shock7496]

You're getting closer every time! I know all this effort will pay off, you got this!!

[@Helimations]

I cannot express just how many people need to hear this, especially if you're in the process of making your own series. This is something I have delt with for almost a year now, and to hear someone else express the exact feelings I had is both comforting and gut wrenching. We often forget that we tend to make things come off as worse in our own heads than what people really think. Always cheering for you, Brookes!! You got this man!! Don't let the mind overcome the soul 💖

[@LARADEKA]

As someone who is trying not only to profit, but also find my place in an ever-changing industry... It gets harder. As ideas gets broader, and the team starts from square one, it gets more difficult to organize yourself and set out a clear timeline of how you want your projects to be. Some teams had to delay the project so they can come back to it with a strong goal in mind, as well as to improve on what they failed. Crunching leads to burnout, and now I prefer flexible work hours whenever I want to career hunt/team hunt. Managing, however, is a double-edged sword. But if you are a multitasker, you can take many roles, from the lowest to the highest. It sounds humble, but it is a challenge, especially when you're doing everything by yourself... which is what I'm doing. *_Also, Parker Simmons is a legend._* *_Now I'm driven to go indie._*

[@CatLover-gk8uu]

You still remain a massive inspiration to me brooks. The time, work, effort, sacrifice, It's amazing everything you've done for this project. Every dollar I have put towards you and supporting you I still feel were worthwhile and i'm still excited. So let's see what the man who got me into worldbuilding, story telling, and character design gots in store for us next and I don't care how long I have to wait, because I know it will be worth it.

[@ayperosia]

Putting your time into a project is more than enough of a reason. Treating your workers well is also an awesome reason to have some delays on the estimated timelines, avoiding crunch etc. This little update has been very appreciated, yes this is a passion project, but do take good care of yourself please! You should know we're all excited and looking forward to the trailer and happy to wait longer if that's what is needed! ✨

[@Charely1925]

I just love how sincere and honest this man is.

[@ICsInspirationAmount-it7yk]

OSWALD RABBIT MIC!! 💕😍💕

[@themysteriousunknownrevealed]

I really enjoyed listening to your story. I totally can relate, and it's vindicated knowing I'm not lazy.

[@ProphetEKA]

Great to see you back again! I know that pain of burning your candle at both ends for a project (Ha HA! Trying to be a professional in Webcomics for far too many years...). By the by, where did you find a tiny Oswald figure for your mic? It's neat. = )

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thanks man! I think i got it on ebay around 2012- maybe it was an Epic Mickey thing? The stand he came on was what I used for the Labko’s base in the mould 😆

[@BlackPeerama]

I will love to make my own cartoon animated series your videos are so helpful thank you

[@PixelaGames2000]

The stuff you do…is phenomenal! I am always amazed by the talent and skill you possess, also..Congratulations on getting Mao mao himself to voice your character, that’s amazing! I’ve had dreams and aspirations since I was 16 to make my own shows, my own games, my own comics even, I’ve made videos, done live streams, made art, and I wanna go higher, I wanna make something epic! I just need to build up my skills some more, I need to stop procrastinating, and just make art. I’m 24 now, I know I’m still young and got plenty of time, but I need to get the ball rolling…which is always the hardest part.

[@yourfavoritebrendan]

This pilot is gonna be so damn good. Everything you make (creatively) is and you should be proud

[@Len11999]

I'm working on a DEMO for a game that I've been slowly plugging away at since I was abused at my first "industry job" shortly after graduating with my BFA in summer 2022. I thought it would be finished in October 2023, but we're finally just now almost finished. It's just me and my friend working on it, me doing ALL the art (character design, sculpting, retopo, texturing, rigging, animation, engine implementation, environment art, even some tech art) and him doing all the coding and all the while I've been struggling with my mental health only being able to get full time employment at Walmart even with the BFA. All while having no one but him in my corner cheering me on. Praying it sees some kind of success or at least gets me a better job but I do think the message is important and if all goes to plan I'm hoping to be able to make the full game as my real job.

[@mackenziediaz8780]

I gotta say, Ive bewn watching since the creation of Glengor (not quite the creation of Beeko but its still been 4ish years. And Ive really admired your work, your creativity, your talent, and most importantly your grit and perseverance! I really am so excited to see Stormfellers and we all will be cheering you on along the way! Your content really lifts my spirits and makes me feel like with enough work and sacrifice, my ideas can be put into such beautiful projects. Thank you Brookes :33

[@smallbar2012]

I'm just glad to hear that you're surviving okay despite the abundant challenges! Take as long as the project takes, and we'll all be here to celebrate when it's done.

[@Abonkit]

I just wanted to say I am hyped for this project and I am glad you are taking the time to make sure it looks great and keeping the crew well taken care of.

[@Silver01Son]

I'm fine with waiting, I'm sure whatever you come out with will be amazing!

[@reachupandpickabean]

I love the clip of Gene.

[@reachupandpickabean]

Like butter scraped over too much bread, Brookes.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

I just realized what your username is! 😆

[@tayloreggleston9360]

@@reachupandpickabean Good lord thats so good. Highly approve of this use of quote

[@4_seagull]

Major respect to you for taking this on all of these years. Not just the pilot but all of the client work and everything else you do. You've been my number one role model for years and its amazing to see how you've been so hard at work ever since I found you. I don't know how you do it all so consistently, I really hope I can get to that point one day. Really looking forward to what's in store! The pilot is looking fantastic so far

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thanks so much!!

[@skycreeper0173]

I’m really glad you’re being honest with this. I understand how difficult it can be to make this kind of project a reality. I’m still working on the general story for my FNaF AU animated series and we have yet to finish Chapter 1’s remake which has been dormant in production since late 2022. I just want to say that I’m proud of you and the team for doing everything you can to make this project a reality. Take all the time you need to make an awesome show pilot.

[@HaywireRuckus]

Thank you for sharing a very interesting and enlightening perspective on such a massive undertaking - I believe in you, I believe in your team, and I believe in Stormfellers! Nothing but excitement from me. I trust that the trailer and pilot will happen and haven’t doubted one bit, setbacks or no. You got this 💪 Just make sure you don’t burn that candle at both ends for too long, you’re close to Biko and I get the impression he might be melt-able.

[@spyralatelier]

HOLY COW the progress looks amazing! Keep on cooking at your own pace, you guys, I'll be excited for the release all the same. 🎉❤

[@thebradcolbow]

Oh wow this is looking fantastic!!! Take care of yourself.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thanks Brad!!

[@ericdelacruz6023]

It's great that you've found people to help with Stormfellers. Some may think more manpower equals greater efficiency, but 10 hard-working and skilled people beat 100 "I'm just here for the paycheck." types. Regardless of the final outcome of the pilot, this journey surely has taught you something. After attempting to make a series/film proposal, complete with visual development art, character designs & profiles, plot summary, and storyboarded scenes I agree that it is taxing! I'm not even making a pilot of the project!

[@skedaddledbraincell]

AAAAAGH IM SO EXCITED!!! I have the upmost respect for you and anyone who makes indie projects like this, so excited for the trailer!!!!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Really really appreciate it!

[@evanlane1690]

I've seen a few of your videos but never knew about this project. Just missed that content somehow. Keep at it! It looks amazing! Subscribed!

[@dynamicsketch]

Hearing anything about the progress is exciting. I need to play with Blender more. You convinced me to check it out.

[@GrinPaint]

the character designs are amazing

[@theloob]

This is hellp full, but yet not, I am not old enough to make my own money, but dreams and passion is what creeps us all going. I wish you good luck on yours. (I am crying i don't know why)

[@smowboi-jpeg]

yo biko is voice by louie zong? THE LOUIE ZONG?!!?

[@DavidAnastasiou]

As long as you are giving 100%, what is there to feel guilty about? You’re doing the best you can. It takes as long as it takes. We’ll get there when we get there. Remember to be kind to yourself.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thank you David.

[@jordanfisher4445]

Congrats on the VA get and all the progress on the pilot. The snipits look amazing, 'have fun creating'!

[@DewottEva]

Am I upset I can’t watch stormfellers RIGHT NOW? Yes. Am I upset at YOU because I can’t watch it? No. You’re working so hard on it and I know it’s gonna be great, so I don’t mind waiting.

[@GrinPaint]

I love this Project and i hope it comes out

[@RJS2003]

Man, I really loved Watching Mao Mao back when that came out, it was legit so great! The backgrounds, animation and monsters were all just really cool! To think the same guy who made that also drew Dr. Mario's fat, gaping gut for a fun parody song video however many years before... that's insane to me. Now if only we got that Season 2... CN _really_ fumbled the bag there.

[@GrinPaint]

I really hope that this does great!

[@kcmoon2214]

I LOVE your room! ♥️🥰😆 For some reason my family doesn't get why I like collecting so many books and figures (mine is about the same though my biggest collection is my transformers)😣 Nice to see I'm not alone. 🥰

[@BAESDART]

video just started but im LOVING the beard man!!

[@Itsnothing389]

I needed to see this, thank you for this video sir.

[@Poppihin]

This is exciting thank you for sharing this!

[@brandonjacksoon]

Welcome back!!!

[@colechristian3765]

The beard looks great Brookes!

[@Popcorn_Time32]

Giving Alaric saltzman vibes….love the beard

[@GrinPaint]

this will be amazing

[@nancyovanbeek1010]

this is so exciting. ahhhaaaww. hang in there bro.

[@CartoonyAndor19]

ANDOR!!!

[@4_seagull]

4

[@ccllerk4862]

wow.

[@salvidomum5287]

Vibeoooooo

[@calabazacuantica6306]

Parker Simmons mi papa

[@WolfyTheDark]

Hehe, US Customs at Dulles. Welcome to one to four hours of standing around waiting to do the most mundane conversation of, "Yes, I'm a regular person, thanks, goodbye." But good luck with the trailer and working on the project!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

“Why yes, I do plan on undertaking some illegal activities. Thanks so much for taking an interest!”

[@spinogreen0iq]

calm down my guy, no need to wallow in feelings of debt, that doesn’t help anybody :33 we will like ur animated child, even if it comes out later then expected :))

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Hehe thanks! No wallows, I Just felt better giving an explanation and being forthright with the audience

[@spinogreen0iq]

@@CharacterDesignForge yeah, understandable :3 but I’m glad u feel better now

[@Jungheinz]

Man… even though in these times, when so many people are blaming everyone and everything but themselves, it is so refreshing to hear someone actually acknowledge their own responsibility, I hope your example is over-exaggerated for the purpose of the message and apology. I’ve met my share of narcissistic personalities… myself included. Every one of them, either openly or deep inside, is self absorbed, feels superior, indestructible and indispensable, able to deal with everything without a sweat - who else if not them? Who else is determined enough to overcome all these obstacles? And with team or employees - no matter how good they are, they still need the boss who can lead by example. (They are not good enough anyway, better to work another few or more hours and do the task personally instead of delegate it) Most of them are delusional to feel better about themselves but for some, this illusion of superiority is the reason for self bashing, extreme self-criticism, constant exhaustion and feel of failure and disappointment. And the infinite burnout loop. Be honest, seriously. Do you actually think that you are so omnipotent and important to be responsible for plane delays and overcrowded custom lines? You really feel bad for not foreseeing unexpected issues in the future? Feel guilty for letting your friend wait? As you obviously already fell into this ”Vortex of Over-”… -responsibility, -work, -confidence, -stubbornness, -stress, self-hatred for being weak and not able to fulfil your plans … and was able to get out only with stress rash, I think you learnt your lesson and this self blame story is just to convince people you actually care. But if by chance you mean it seriously- get over yourself. You are just an ordinary human, sorry. Unique in your personality, attitude, skills and experiences but nobody special, not superhuman or god-like being. Imperfect, making mistakes, having limits. Knowing the same shit about tomorrow as everyone else. So stop this self centred nonsense or you’ll be back in the vortex in no time. Be responsible, but not an idiot. And if you are struggling with anything - so what? Do what you can and if you can’t, communicate it with others openly as you are doing now. There’s no reason to feel bad or overwork yourself to death or insanity. Of course, some people will gripe, people love to gripe and always find something to practice this hobby. But they also love to feel kind, generous and forgiving, especially if they can connect words to the face and feel they are not fooled and you are honest with them. This applies to your friend situation, game/animation/film production, team or company leading… and basically everything life and work-related. Just take it easy, don’t forget to have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously, this self harming/blaming narcissism is just stupid. People are congratulating you for many things and are absolutely right. But let me congratulate you for something I consider much more important than anything else related to this project or project itself - for being so self aware and clever to realise soon enough the road you stepped on was heading straight to the hell. So stop being idiot and blaming yourself for every cold someone caught or the traffic jam your friend got stuck in that happened after sun eruptions blinded old japan guru who then hit himself to head and the frequency of shaking traveled to your country and caused car accident. Yes, you should know and expected it but hey, we all make mistakes.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Well I would hope the time distortion and trouble juggling things would be more a result of ADHD, and I just wanted to accountability for the delays for transparency with my audience. But I suppose I’ll keep an eye out for that being a trait of narcissism. Havent heard that one before 😄 Appreciate your concern.

[@dragonnet289]

I need advice I'm also making an indie animated series I got all the characters got all the concepts I got the software where do I start Because I want to be a cartoonist And make cartoons on the internet It takes place in the Afterlife kind of like the underworld but different It's kind of similar to Hazbin Hotel but different enough in my style that's all that all I'm going to say for It's in a unique art style I'm going to create it myself I also need animators And also an indie animation studio to back it up by the way, can't wait to see your series I'm so excited

[@musingsofahomeschooler5332]

and here I thought the hardest part was finding a studio without a social agenda to fund you

[@MatthewMoreau]

You're welcome.

[@FelixTheAnimator]

Hon, you're hair is noticibly gray-er than the last time we saw you. REST.