or years companies have released computer-generated videos featuring cutting-edge technology and visual effects. Many contain short, unrelated segments that, although often devoid of any authentic content, somehow manage to dazzle the eyes and fire the imagination. By injecting a plot into the undertaking, the animators on this high-tech speculative project--called Planetary Traveler--endeavor to kindle a genuine sense of wonder in their audience.
The story begins with a commanding male voice that introduces itself as Sumoc, "last of the Phleig, the Planetary Travelers." Having learned of a
world where creatures can journey to an advanced state of consciousness, he has been sent by his race to find this elusive sphere. A massive spacecraft soon appears on-screen and discharges small scout saucers and drones. The video, accompanied by elegant electronic music, displays the visual logs of these diminutive vessels as they investigate eight planetary milieus.
From the first globe, with its tranquil, Earth-like islands and waterfalls, through the lava-spewing fury of a geologically active terrain and the gaseous environment of a giant Jupiter-esque realm, the probes flit over numerous topographies before reaching their final destination, a strange waterworld featuring a variety of artificial structures. Although ostensibly nothing happens to the Phleig following this discovery, from deep space the voice of Sumoc returns to tell the audience that unbeknownst to his race, the encounter did lead to a change--his people no longer exist on this plane. With that bit of wisdom, the mother ship flies off as Sumoc reminds viewers that "the cycle of life occurs on many levels."
Strange new worlds...or are they?
Directed by Jan C. Nickman, who also helmed the groundbreaking computer-animated video The Mind's Eye, every segment of this enterprise is visually amazing. Utilizing seven animators spread across six states, Nickman and his team have created a first-rate universe of out-of-this-world effects. The blue-hued terrain of an ice planet, when juxtaposed with the purple sky and desolate rock outcrops of a godforsaken desert realm, collectively exude exciting environmental elements, while translucent, multi-colored crystalline monoliths and peculiar plants enliven the strange landscapes of other globes.
Paul Haslinger, a former member of the band Tangerine Dream, provides the musical accompaniment for the trek, and his electronic melodies add oomph to the otherworldly atmospheres. He takes a few cues from classic composers like Gustav Holst and Aaron Copland but also liberally includes flourishes of ingenious sounds and ethnic influences. Assisted in part by Christopher Franke, another Tangerine Dream alumnus who is best known for his work on Babylon 5, the music is marvelously fluid and provides the perfect complement to each exotic locale.
However all is not perfect with this endeavor, as almost every landscape, albeit alien, also features surprisingly terrestrial features. The story itself is also weak, offering no real conflict and a limp resolution, leading viewers to conclude that the sole purpose of the plot is to link together the eight planetary scenarios. Aficionados of top-of-the-line computer animation or futuristic imagery are thus likely to find this venture worthwhile, while folks seeking a meaningful yarn will undoubtedly be dissatisfied with the flimsy narrative.
