134340: A Fan-Made Music Video Reimagining Pluto

Zi Quan Lim's Award-Winning Animation Brings BTS's Song to Life

The video stands out for its unique use of 3D polygons and flat colors, designed entirely in Cinema 4D. The animation focuses on the movements and speeds of each shape, rhythmically fitting with the music. The simplicity of the design is further emphasized through the use of 2D cel shading, a cartoonish flat shading art style. This ambitious project showcases the song 134340 from BTS's third Korean studio album, Love Yourself: Tear, in a fresh and innovative light.

134340 is a short music video that visualizes the titular song of the same title. The video redesigns dwarf planet Pluto as a white ball wandering through multiple dimensions of space, surrounded by colorful 3D shapes. The color palette mainly consists of purple and blue to fit the space aesthetics of the video. The music video captures a 2D effect art style known as Cel Shading and combines animations into the 3D elements.

Lim's project was not without its challenges. With a limited timeframe and resources, he had to experiment with different software and art styles to find the one that best complimented the music. He also had to consider the audience's perception over his personal ones. Despite these challenges, Lim was able to create a visually stunning music video that resonated with BTS fans, known as ARMYs.

134340 was showcased as Lim's final college project in an exhibition. The project also included an A3 concept board poster, a 2A0 visual poster, and Kiss Cut stickers featuring design elements from the music video. The project started in June 2019 in Kuala Lumpur and finished in mid-August 2019 in Selangor, and was exhibited in The One Gallery of The One Academy in late August until early September 2019.

Lim's hard work and creativity paid off when 134340 was awarded Silver in A' Movie, Video and Animation Design Award in 2021. The award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This recognition is a testament to Lim's technical skills and artistic vision.

134340 is a testament to the power of fan-made content and the creative possibilities of motion graphic design. Lim's project serves as an inspiration for aspiring designers and BTS fans alike. It is a reminder that with creativity, technical skills, and a passion for one's work, it is possible to create something truly unique and impactful.