Young Animator Charlie Faulks Launches Unique Zombie Series

A new web series titled Bloke of the Apocalypse has been launched by Charlie Faulks, a recent graduate from Massey University with a major in animation. At just 21 years old, Faulks has created, written, animated, and directed this series, which consists of six episodes, each lasting between six and nine minutes. The entire series was hand-drawn and animated on iPads, showcasing Faulks’ innovative approach to storytelling and animation.

The project received significant support from NZ On Air, which provided nearly $500,000 in funding when Faulks was just 19. This funding is part of NZ On Air’s broader investment of $5 million aimed at developing new content for young New Zealanders. Faulks’ work draws inspiration from his upbringing in Gisborne and his relationships with family, particularly his father and brother.

Bringing Personal Stories to Life

Faulks has successfully blended elements of small-town Kiwi life with the dramatic backdrop of a zombie apocalypse. In an interview, he explained that his familiarity with the farming landscape from his childhood allowed him to create a relatable and engaging narrative. “The mechanics of an apocalypse are attractive to me because you can really build out the world,” he noted. The series features a protagonist who is “clueless, stubborn and cavalier,” preferring to maintain his property rather than confront an impending disaster.

The characters in Bloke of the Apocalypse reflect Faulks’ real-life experiences. He has taken traits from his father and brother and transformed them into animated characters, adopting a style reminiscent of Cartoon Network shows. “After I moved to Wellington to study, I missed the quiet nature of home,” Faulks shared. This longing fueled his creativity and resulted in the birth of the series during a time when he felt disconnected from his roots.

A Milestone Achievement in Animation

Receiving support from NZ On Air marked a pivotal moment for Faulks as a creator. He described this achievement as a validation of his dreams, a realization that still feels surreal. “It’s certainly a lot to get your head around,” he remarked, emphasizing his focus on producing quality work. His confidence in his creative sensibilities and style has been a driving force behind the series’ production.

At the heart of the show lies a powerful narrative about a father and son striving to understand each other amid the chaos of a collapsing world. Faulks attributes this dynamic to the complex relationships in his own life, acknowledging that while they may not be as extreme as portrayed in the series, they carry their own challenges. The interplay between the stubborn father and his frightened son, alongside their chaotic pet lamb, creates a rich tapestry of emotions that spans multiple genres, from comedy to drama to horror.

The journey of Bloke of the Apocalypse has not only been about the creation of the series but also about personal growth for Faulks. He has learned the importance of maintaining a busy schedule, which has led him to work on additional projects, including four feature films. “The biggest thing I learned is that it’s hard to make things,” he reflected, highlighting the dedication required in the creative process.

As the series premiered at Terror-Fi and made its way to YouTube, Faulks experienced a whirlwind of emotions. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share his work but also revealed a personal moment during the premiere that caught him off guard. “I don’t like to cry,” he admitted, recounting how he broke down during his speech, overwhelmed with happiness in front of an audience of around 150 people.

Through Bloke of the Apocalypse, Charlie Faulks has crafted a distinct narrative that resonates with audiences, blending humor and depth in a unique setting. His journey as a young animator serves as an inspiring testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of personal experiences on creative expression.