Dispenser

The 'Dispenser' is meant to be linked with our robot-character, it is it's true 'companion'. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it has to take a humanoid form. Most of the warmth and 'companionship' it is meant to be offering will hopefully be achieved in the way it is interacted with and it's sound design. On development of the script, the Dispenser is no longer just there to charge the robot and now serves as a recycling unit. This hopefully gives a more dependent relationship between the dispenser and robot, therefore I feel the design should be slightly similar to, or at least take elements from, the robot-characters design (head). 

Moodboard

I'm a little wary that the whole film could seem a little like Wall-E, therefore aim to create (or at least try) and create a visual difference. (This will also hopefully be achieved by differentiating the colour design, - despite previously referencing it in this blog). Since we are limited with budget etc, we are using what we have. This includes a microwave that can be used as the area where junk is recycled in the dispenser unit. I've therefore designed around this, thinking about how it can be incorporated.

We've discussed having a 'screen' or something that will be composited in post-production, whilst this will help give the 'futuristic' and 'technology' vibe of the dispenser, I'm a little hesitant to involve too much CG. I've included a small screen in the design, however this could perhaps be ditched and instead the black oval could serve as a 'screen' if needed.

By adding a cardboard texture/element to the dispenser I'm hoping the link between the robot-character is clearer. This is also hopefully mirrored by the simplistic square design. I'm aware overcomplicating things could confuse the viewer if it is not made clear, therefore stickers/branding logos etc added to the design will hopefully help. Again, the sound design for this particular 'prop' is very important.