A Thing Called Joy

A Thing Called Joy is TAUNT’s flagship Virtual Production project, investigating the potential of real-time in-camera visual effects for film. We became the first studio in Northern Ireland to film on an LED volume wall housed in Ulster University’s state-of-the-art Virtual Production facilities in January 2022.

The theme of the film explores the ethereal and intangible connection in life to the thing we call “joy”. Through the Covid-19 pandemic our desire for both the natural environment and human connection came to the fore. Joy reflects this both in the isolation of the film’s sole inhabitant, and in the shift of atmosphere and mood from darkness to hope that runs throughout. 

This project was funded by Innovate UK’s pilot Creative Industries Fund. As the lead applicant, TAUNT produced the film in collaboration with the director duo JAK and the Ulster University Screen Academy.

 Behind the Scenes

A diverse and talented team worked together to bring the vision of A Thing Called Joy to life. You can watch the Behind the Scenes documentary for an exclusive look at how the short was made here.