Tayler Carter’s path to the St. Louis Filmmaker Showcase was anything but conventional. In a recent podcast episode, Tayler shared insights into his journey, the challenges of creating his short film The Automaton, and thoughts on the future of animation in a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.

A Humble Beginning

Tayler’s roots trace back to the small town of Troy, Missouri, where creativity sprouted amidst the farmlands. Despite a childhood filled with academic pursuits and a brief flirtation with engineering at Truman State University, Tayler’s passion for storytelling and animation could not be denied. He eventually transferred to Webster University, where he could fully immerse himself in the world of animation.

The Automaton: A 19-Month Labor of Love

“The Automaton,” a 10-minute animated short film made its debut at the 2024 St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase. The film, which took 19 months from conception to completion, is a testament to Tayler’s dedication and vision. The idea for “The Automaton” was sparked by a random YouTube video, which inspired Tayler to craft a story centered around a relentless robotic force navigating a corridor – a scene reminiscent of iconic hallway battles in cinematic history.

Creating “The Automaton” was no small feat. Tayler took on the monumental task of storyboarding, background design, and animation, with the 2D animation portion handled using Toon Boom Harmony and Blender. The project was a collaborative effort, with a college friend stepping in to assist, particularly with the more challenging shots. The result is a film that Tayler proudly describes as the best work he could achieve with his current skills.

A Surprising Triumph

When Tayler received the news that “The Automaton” had been accepted into the Filmmaker Showcase, his reaction was overwhelming. Tears of joy marked the moment, a powerful recognition of years of hard work and perseverance. The festival not only served as a platform to share Tayler’s work with a broader audience but also as a validation of his creative journey.

Navigating the Impact of AI on Creativity

As the conversation shifted to the role of artificial intelligence in the creative industry, Tayler shared a nuanced perspective. While acknowledging the potential of AI as a tool that can enhance the creative process, there is also an awareness of the risks it poses, particularly in terms of job displacement. However, Tayler remains optimistic, seeing AI as a means to push the boundaries of creativity rather than a threat.

A New Chapter in Animation

With “The Automaton” behind him, Tayler is looking to the future with clear intent. Plans are in place to transition out of the finance industry to pursue animation, editing, and writing full-time. This leap of faith is driven by a desire to fully dedicate his time and energy to his passion, further honing his craft and exploring new creative avenues.