Motion Factory - the secrets of stop motion animation

This exposition explores the work and methods behind stop motion animation. It presents a selection of short films, alongside making-of videos, alongside displays of the storyboards and miniature figurines, models and sets. The short films are also played in a cinema on the big screen.

Around 20 films are given this treatment, including my new favourite - Panique au Village (A Town Called Panic). (If you're not familiar, check it out - it's a comedy based on the adventures of Cowboy, Indian and Horse, who live together under some strange sharehouse arrangement. You'll have to trust me. There is a feature length movie and several shorts, many of which can be found on YouTube.)

The interactive part of the exposition

And alongside these 20 films, there is an additional selection of short films showcasing the variety of animation styles - shown in a second cinema room.

And lastly, there is a room set up where visitors can take part in the filming of some stop motion animation. A large set has been created where the filmmaking takes place continuously during the exposition. Visitors can enter and manipulate the model, contributing a small section to the final film.

All up there are at least 5 hours of imaginative animation to enjoy along with all the displays.

••  Runs 24 Apr - 10 Aug, at La Gaîté Lyrique (3 bis rue Papin, 75003 Paris). Open afternoons only, Tue to Sun, and open late on Tue.