Animation Mentor:
What inspired you to learn animation?

Yisroel Broocker:
I'm really into storytelling, and I think animation opens up so many possibilities.  You can go anywhere, at any time, and do almost anything.  And it's really gratifying to bring something to life.



Animation Mentor:
How has your experience at Animation Mentor been so far?

Yisroel Broocker:
It's been really, really awesome.  It's a great learning community - the mentors and the students.  There are just so many resources to grow from.




Animation Mentor:
What's one of the most important and/or interesting lessons you've learned while at Animation Mentor?

Yisroel Broocker:
I found it a little intimidating, at first, being in class with people who already know so much about animation, modeling, and rigging - their work usually rises to the top.  I learned to stop comparing myself, though, and started taking advantage of what everyone had to teach me.




Animation Mentor:
What would be your ultimate dream job?

Yisroel Broocker:
I would have a small studio that produced good, quality Jewish animation.  I grew up loving the Rankin-Bass holiday specials, and always wished they'd have something that cool with Jewish content.



Animation Mentor:
Who is your favorite animator?

Yisroel Broocker:
I think maybe Phil Tippett.  That man had such a huge impact on my childhood - the Star Wars chess set, the TaunTauns, the two headed dragon in Willow.  He and Ray Harryhausen put so much personality in their characters; you really buy them as real.



Animation Mentor:
What is your favorite animated/CG scene of all time?

Yisroel Broocker:
The last twenty minutes of the Iron Giant are nearly perfect.  I also love the "Night of the Living Toys" scene at the end of Toy Story - that was brilliant.



Animation Mentor:
Anything else you want to say to your fellow and prospective students of Animation Mentor?

Yisroel Broocker:
Take full advantage of the community, the forums, and other students' work.  Really cruise all the classes and check out what other people are doing.  And especially check out their critiques.  It definitely makes a world of difference when you're involved.