Ro-Tel
"The Difference"
Completed October 14, 1998

This was a fairly straightforward spot consisting of a can of Rotel hopping about different dishes and converting them into tastier meals. The model was built from measurements of the real thing, so as to make sure proportions were accurate. The most challenging aspect of this commercial was trying to figure out just how far to bend the can without distorting it too much, while still providing enough flexibility to convey body language and expressions.

  • Plates of spaghetti, chicken with rice, and queso with chips are surrounded by fresh vegetables and a can of diced tomatoes, evoking a vibrant, hearty meal.
  • Canned Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies beside a meatloaf topped with tomato garnish on a colorful plate, surrounded by fresh peppers.

It was modeled and animated with Softimage, rendered with Mental Ray, and composited with Discreet’s Flame.

Credits

Directed by Robert Padovan.
Animated by Richard Rosenman, Robert Padovan, and Chris Johnson.

Produced at Topix Animation Studios.