"The Secret of the Magic Gourd" is a Chinese children's film that tells the story of a little boy named Wang Bao who discovers a magic gourd. The gourd has the power to grant wishes, but only one wish per day. At first, Wang Bao is excited about his newfound power and uses it to get whatever he wants. However, he soon realizes that having unlimited wishes doesn't always lead to happiness. As Wang Bao continues to make wishes, he becomes greedy and selfish. He neglects his friends and family, thinking only about himself.
If you're going for an intense dramatic look, this tutorial is for you. It may look complex at first glance, but she breaks it down into super simple steps that are easily achievable.
When I performed as the witch, we actually built a quick-change costume based on quick-change magic act costumes, so it took literally 2 seconds to change. I am working on Into the Woods, and was hoping if anyone has any ideas or suggestions on how to complete the witch s transformation as seamlessly as possible.
He neglects his friends and family, thinking only about himself. He wishes for material possessions and power, but each wish only brings temporary satisfaction. He soon realizes that true happiness comes from helping others and being thankful for what he already has.
Witch's Transformation for Into the Woods
I am working on Into the Woods, and was hoping if anyone has any ideas or suggestions on how to complete the witch's transformation as seamlessly as possible. Also, I am debating whether or not I want to make a cow or rent one. I need the cow to be calf size (obviously) and a contact I had to rent a cow, was trying to give me a 6 foot long cow. Any ideas or suggestions on the how-to or best way to construct milky-white or a good company to rent a calf-sized cow.
Anything helps, Thanks!
SHCP
Well-Known Member
I am building this show as well, and am doing the same effect as I did with Beauty and the Beast.
I built a raised platform with a steel grate that has lights and a strobe beneath it. It also has a smoke machine rigged. We just have the actor stand on the unit while we use the smoke and light effects, which look really nice streaming from the steel grate, and give her time to remove the makeup appliances and costume to appear changed.
Can't help with the cow, we rented ours from a local college. Good luck with your show.
I am working on Into the Woods, and was hoping if anyone has any ideas or suggestions on how to complete the witch's transformation as seamlessly as possible. Also, I am debating whether or not I want to make a cow or rent one. I need the cow to be calf size (obviously) and a contact I had to rent a cow, was trying to give me a 6 foot long cow. Any ideas or suggestions on the how-to or best way to construct milky-white or a good company to rent a calf-sized cow.
Anything helps, Thanks!
Tim MahoneyTechnical Director/Scenic Designer
Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory
San Francisco
BrianWolfe
Active Member
I have two cows, a chicken and the giant's harp from the original Broadway production that I rent out.
General Manager
Costume Armour, Inc.
Props, sculpture, vac-form and resin casting.
CatieO
Member
We made our cow a costumed actor and it worked to a pretty nice effect. Don't know if that's an option for you.
The trick to the witch's transformation (I've teched this show twice and was the witch the third time around) is practicing the costume change and coordinating with your designer to make sure everything is quick-changed to a ridiculous level. I realize that's kind of obvious, but you'd be suprized what a little velco can do.
When I performed as the witch, we actually built a "quick-change" costume based on quick-change magic act costumes, so it took literally 2 seconds to change. Depending on your prosthetics/wigs, they can be detattched backstage and kept on with a bare minimum (so the wig can be pulled off easily, ect).
One cheap and visually awesome trick is to build a cape with a large sweep, so the witch can sweep it up and around to hide the transformation. If you time it right, it can look amazing.
Into the Woods is a beast! Good luck!
StewTech
Member
During a local production of Into the Woods I helped with, they originally staged the witch to swap out with a body double during the song and just mouth the words. With the wig and heavy prosthetics, no one would be able to tell the difference.
However, the effect simply didn't work. The director wanted the witch to be visible fully the entire time. So the body doubles switched places.
The double was dressed as the young witch and would hide behind a tree flat which was beside a trap door. The real witch would hit her mark, drink the goblet and go down in the trap, and in a cloud of fog and flash of light, the double would jump out from the tree flat, and strike an identical pose right behind the trap. With proper back lighting, the effect was that an old body melted off the witch.
If you can figure out a way to do it, I highly recommend a trap door.
Branden Scott Stewart
Non-AEA Stage Manager
"Do you know what a dog clip is rated for? One dog!"
--"Or two pomeranians!"
The spider web detailing may look really hard to do but it's actually incredibly simple. Plus the rhinestones add a pretty glamorous touch.
Through his magical journey, Wang Bao learns important life lessons about the consequences of his actions and the importance of gratitude. He discovers the true meaning of friendship and the value of selflessness. As he selflessly uses his wishes to help others, he experiences a profound change, becoming a kind and compassionate person. The film teaches children the importance of values such as generosity, kindness, and gratitude. It encourages them to think about the impact of their actions on others and the power of empathy. "The Secret of the Magic Gourd" reminds viewers that happiness doesn't come from material possessions but rather from genuine connections with others and a sense of appreciation for the present moment. Overall, "The Secret of the Magic Gourd" is a heartwarming tale that teaches children about the importance of values and selflessness. It encourages viewers to reflect on their own actions and consider the consequences of their choices. Through the journey of Wang Bao, children learn that true happiness lies in the relationships they build, the kindness they show, and the gratitude they express..
Reviews for "The Magic Gourd: Techniques for Enhancing its Magic"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "The Secret of the Magic Gourd." The storyline was predictable and lacked depth. The characters were one-dimensional, and I couldn't connect with any of them. The acting was subpar, with awkward dialogue and forced emotions. Overall, I felt like I wasted my time watching this film.
2. Emily - 1 star - "The Secret of the Magic Gourd" was one of the worst movies I have ever seen. The special effects were cheesy and poorly executed. The plot was painfully slow, and I found myself losing interest within the first twenty minutes. The child actor, who played the main character, was annoyingly over-the-top and not believable. I wouldn't recommend this film to anyone.
3. Mark - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "The Secret of the Magic Gourd," but it fell short in many aspects. The story was not engaging enough to hold my attention, and I found myself zoning out during several scenes. The pacing was slow, and the film lacked a clear direction. Additionally, the CGI used for the magic gourd was unimpressive and looked fake. Overall, it was a forgettable movie-watching experience.
4. Samantha - 3 stars - "The Secret of the Magic Gourd" had potential, but it failed to deliver. The story was predictable, with no surprises or twists. The characters were underdeveloped, and I couldn't fully connect with their arcs. The film also relied too heavily on CGI, which looked flashy but lacked substance. While it was not the worst movie I've seen, it was far from memorable.