Young Animator Charlie Faulks Launches Unique Zombie Series

A new web series titled Bloke of the Apocalypse has emerged, showcasing the creative talents of Charlie Faulks, a 21-year-old animator and recent graduate from Massey University. The series, which consists of six episodes ranging from six to nine minutes each, was entirely hand-drawn and animated on iPads. With funding of just under $500,000 NZD from NZ On Air, Faulks was able to pursue this project, which aims to resonate with young audiences in New Zealand.

The inspiration for the series draws heavily from Faulks’ own experiences growing up in Gisborne. He explores familial relationships, particularly with his father and brother, against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse. Faulks not only created the series but also lends his voice to one of the characters, alongside a cast that includes notable New Zealand personalities like Anika Moa and Theo Shakes.

Combining Personal Narrative with Genre

In a recent interview, Faulks discussed the unique blend of small-town life with the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. He explained, “I knew the farming landscape after growing up in it, making it easier to write the show and understand a block of land like that.” He expressed a fascination with the mechanics of an apocalypse, stating that it allows for significant world-building. The protagonist’s oblivious yet stubborn nature adds a layer of humor, contrasting with the dire circumstances surrounding him.

Faulks emphasized how his upbringing in Gisborne influenced the characters, stating, “I couldn’t resist taking the characters of my dad and brother and cloning them in this strange Cartoon Network-esque style.” After moving to Wellington for his studies, he felt a longing for the tranquility of his hometown, which further fueled his creative process.

The funding from NZ On Air represented a pivotal moment in Faulks’ career. “My dream had been legitimized at that moment,” he reflected, noting that it still feels surreal. He appreciated the confidence boost it provided in his abilities as a creator, allowing him to focus on producing quality work.

Thematic Depth and Personal Reflections

At the heart of Bloke of the Apocalypse is the evolving relationship between a father and son, set against an apocalyptic backdrop. Faulks drew inspiration from his own life, noting that while relationships may not always be as dramatic as those depicted in the series, they are often filled with complexity. The characters embody a clash of personalities, with the father being stubborn and the son embodying fear, which leads to a narrative rich in emotional depth.

Reflecting on his journey, Faulks acknowledged the importance of persistence. “I need lots of things on the boil,” he said. Throughout the production of the series, he has also written four feature films, highlighting his commitment to storytelling. He noted, “The biggest thing I learned is that it’s hard to make things.”

As Faulks continues to gain recognition, he shared a personal moment from the premiere that caught him off guard. “I don’t like to cry,” he admitted, recounting how he unexpectedly broke down during his speech, overwhelmed by the moment. “It was the worst possible time for someone who hates crying—in front of an audience of about 150 people!”

With the series now available on platforms like YouTube, Faulks has successfully combined his artistic vision with his personal narrative, offering a fresh perspective on both life in New Zealand and the genre of animation.