This session offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the production of the upcoming Norwegian animated feature ViQueens—an ambitious Viking adventure already generating buzz.
In the masterclass, Sanders will present the innovative technique Reference Capture, used in the development of ViQueens. The method involves performers—dancers and mime artists—acting out scenes synchronized with dialogue and music, while the camera moves freely through the space. These recordings are then used as a dynamic reference and animatic for the animation process.
The result is a production approach that combines the strengths of live-action and animation, allowing for more natural movement, stronger physical presence, and improved cinematic rhythm. It gives animators a rich and expressive foundation to build on, elevating the film from an early stage of production.
Torgeir Sanders leads Gimpville, one of Norway’s most forward-thinking animation studios. With experience from major productions such as TROLL, The 12th Man, The Wave, and Konvoi, he brings extensive expertise from film, television, and commercial production. In ViQueens, Gimpville plays a key role in developing the film’s visual universe and animation.
The masterclass offers not only a technical deep dive, but also a rare insight into the creative decisions behind the film. Audiences will discover how an animated world is developed from concept to finished film, and how new methods can open up new ways of storytelling.
ViQueens is a warm, action-filled adventure about courage, friendship, and the power of choosing your own path. The film follows Ingrid and Hedvig on an epic journey from the Viking realm of Lofotr to China, where they discover that the world is bigger—and more complex—than they have been led to believe.
This is a unique opportunity to experience how a major animated film is brought to life—told by one of the people creating it.
