Summary of "Anthony ROUX (ToT), co-fondateur d'Ankama, en Masterclass à e-artsup Lille ! | e-artsup"

Main Ideas and Concepts

Background of Anthony Roux:
Anthony Roux, co-founder of Ankama, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Montreuil, where he worked in his family's market, to becoming a prominent figure in animation and video game development. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, independence, and creativity, which were instilled in him from a young age.
Education and Early Career:
Roux struggled initially at the Academy of Fine Arts but eventually excelled, motivated by criticism and the desire to prove himself. His early career included working at a web agency, where he realized he was not suited to work for others, leading to the founding of Ankama.
Ankama's Evolution:
Ankama started as a small company with limited resources and has grown into a significant player in the entertainment industry, known for its video games like "Dofus" and "Wakfu." The company is characterized by its creative approach and commitment to storytelling across various media, including comics, animation, and games.
transmedia storytelling:
Roux discusses the concept of transmedia, where stories are told across different platforms without repeating the same narrative. Ankama has pioneered this approach in France, integrating its characters and stories across video games, comics, and animated series.
Wakfu and Its Success:
The discussion includes insights into the creation and evolution of "Wakfu," highlighting its impact and the community's support, especially through crowdfunding for its fourth season. Roux shares anecdotes about character development and the creative process behind the series.
Creative Process:
Roux emphasizes the importance of collaboration within teams and the need for flexibility and adaptability in storytelling. He highlights the emotional depth of characters and the significance of writing relatable antagonists, which adds complexity to the narrative.
Advice for Aspiring Creatives:
- Ensure that working in animation or video games is truly what you want to do.
- Be a sponge; consume various forms of media and literature to inspire creativity.
- Learn to work collaboratively and manage egos within a team environment.

Methodology and Instructions

Creative Development:
- Emphasize hard work and independence from a young age.
- Pursue education and training in relevant fields, but be prepared for challenges and criticism.
- Focus on creativity and storytelling across multiple platforms (transmedia).
Team Collaboration:
- Engage with team members during the writing process to stimulate ideas.
- Be open to feedback and adapt to the needs of the project.
- Recognize the importance of each role within the team, from writers to animators.
Character and Story Development:
- Create complex antagonists that resonate with audiences and drive the narrative.
- Ensure characters undergo meaningful development and face moral dilemmas.
- Maintain a balance between humor and emotional depth in storytelling.

Featured Speakers

Anthony Roux: Co-founder of Ankama and creative director, sharing insights from his career in animation and video game development.
Patricia Robert: Director of animation at Ankama, involved in the production process and creative direction.

This summary encapsulates the key points from Anthony Roux's masterclass, focusing on his journey, the evolution of Ankama, the creative process behind "Wakfu," and valuable advice for aspiring creatives in the animation and video game industries.