With all the criticism I have heaped on to new movie posters lately, I thought it was time to put up or shut up. I’m a graphic designer by day, and my dream job would be to art direct Hollywood movie posters. It’s so frustrating to see all the cookie-cutter posters that have been coming out lately. Remember what it was like seeing posters by the likes of Drew Struzan and Richard Amsel hanging in the theaters? Let’s ditch Photoshop montages for a while and break out those paints again.
I can not wait to see Jon Favreau’s Cowboys and Aliens this summer. I’ve had this idea in my head that a poster done in the style of the old Republic Serials from the 50’s would be a perfect fit. Here is an example…
and…
So, I assembled a mockup using the available source photos and screen grabs from the trailers, and here’s the concept I came up with…
Unfortunately, it’s been about 18 years since I tried my hand at painting and I only got this far before flinging the Wacom tablet on the floor…
There are people out there with more artistic ability in their pinky toe than I have in my whole body, so here is my plea to the Internet: Please paint this poster for me. You will gain internet fame and my undying loyalty, but all I ask is that you put my name on there as a collaborator. 🙂
UPDATE:
I really did try, but I just can’t get my fingers to convey what is in my head. Painting is out for me, so I did a pencil drawing and added colors with Photoshop. Here’s a mockup that gets a little closer to the style. Come on, Internet, are there no artists out there who want to take this on?
IAreGeek says
Don’t give up! It’s looking really cool already and I’d give you, or anyone that does this poster in this style, any amount of money they ask for.
Brian says
Thanks for the encouragement Jeremy. I just wish my hands could convey the image I have in my head. 😉
IAreGeek says
Trust me, I know your pain. My hand/eye coordination is just fine when it comes to video games. My hand/brain coordination, not so much. 😉
Paxton Holley says
Man, that mockup is awesome, Brian. I understand your frustration, but nice going on what you did accomplish.
Brian says
Thanks, Paxton. Maybe once my frustration ebbs a bit I’ll give it another go. I really did know how to paint once. Maybe I need to get off the computer myself and break out the watercolors.
Frank says
You’ve done a great job!!!! I’ve worked in the film business for a few years (nothing glamorous) and totally agree with the cookie cutter posters. I would absolutely love to a poster done in the style of the old 50’s serials.
Brian says
Thanks a lot Frank!I’m a huge fan of Republic Serials posters, especially the Westerns, and this just seemed like a perfect fit.
Matt says
Love what you are going for here.
Brian says
Thanks Matt. I bet you could do a great job on this (hint, hint).
PJ says
Dude, you’re SO CLOSE!! Keep going, it’s inspired work, for sure, Brian; Can’t wait to see the final product!
Brian says
Yeah, I can’t wait to see it either. 😉
Will Rochfort says
I share your enthusiasm for the posters of old! I love Drew Struzans work…I’m an artist working in England and the old Movie posters are a huge inspiration for me. I love where your going with this cowboys and aliens poster – Its inspired me. Perhaps one day we could work together! Are You on twitter?
Brian says
Will, I checked out your site and love your work, very impressive! You’d be a great fit for this poster. Take a shot with it, gain instant fame and adoration! 😉
I’m on Twitter: http://twitter.com/cool_collected, so give me a follow and I’ll do the same.
Christopher Noon says
Looks great! (even if there are no ninjas).
Brian says
Aw man, I can’t believe I forgot the ninjas! 😉
Christopher Noon says
Oh, I’m sure they’re there. You just can’t see them!
DanEastSide says
nice work on the poster, interested in selling it?