The story begins in the present day, at the hospital car park where his house and garden once stood. A train crossing the nearby iron bridge takes us into a miniature recreation of the past. Through a young boy’s eyes, we watch POP working towards completing a steam locomotive, with the promise of a ride when it is finished.

Introducing The Last Train

For my final animation project, I am developing The Last Train, a stop-motion short inspired by my great-grandfather, whom we called POP.

POP was an engineer, artist and lifelong maker. He built miniature steam locomotives, along with countless other things. As a child, I was fascinated by his workshop, his tools and the care he put into making things. This film lets me revisit that world and the relationship we shared.

The film brings together childhood memories, family history and imagined moments. The timeline is adapted: POP’s last train was nearing completion in 1962, before I was born, while my memories of him come from the 1970s.

I plan to build the workshop, garden, puppets and train physically, supported by digital compositing, atmospheric effects and possible set extensions. My AVFX6001 research will help me decide how to combine these techniques while preserving the textures and warmth of handmade miniatures.

For Production Review, I will develop the story, designs, tests and planning needed to make the film achievable. I have completed a first script draft and beat sheet, and drafted a production proposition. My next step is to explore the story visually through rough storyboard thumbnails.

Pops model of Great Northern Railway, 4-2-2 No 1

John (Pop) Hay article in the British Railways Magazine. Vol.13 No.10 October 1962

University Hospital Wishaw car park in

Pops Garden that is now the car park. From left My Dad, Brother, Nanny and Pop.

My great grandfather in his work shop 1962