Their workshop space is a vibrant collection of creative tools used by an expanded team dedicated to revitalizing classic stop-motion techniques for the 21st century. From foam and wire to computers and even Legos, Screen Novelties employs a diverse array of materials to craft their miniature worlds and characters, many of which adorn their workspace. With their upcoming project Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas, Screen Novelties merges the modern holiday classic Elf with the stop-motion charm reminiscent of 1960s classics, aiming to create a holiday special that seamlessly fits into the beloved Rankin/Bass catalog that originally inspired their work.
Founded by a trio of cartoon enthusiasts, Screen Novelties in Los Angeles specializes in stop-motion puppetry, crafting imaginative worlds filled with expressive characters reminiscent of the classic Rankin/Bass holiday specials, whose original puppets they have preserved. Established in 2003 at the “Giraffe Building” in LA, known for its vintage neon giraffe sign, Screen Novelties has contributed to diverse projects from Fruity Pebbles commercials to collaborations with stop-motion legend Ray Harryhausen. They have transformed 2D characters like Spongebob Squarepants into 3D puppet figures and recreated celebrities for shows such as MTV’s Celebrity Death Match and Cartoon Network’s Robot Chicken. In addition to their dedication to stop-motion artistry, the company has undertaken the restoration of original puppets from the beloved 1964 film, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.