The Concept

Table tennis, often called ping pong, is a sport enjoyed by millions worldwide. From its origins as a Victorian parlour game to its rise as an Olympic sport, it carries a surprisingly rich history.

For this project, I re-imagined the seemingly casual sport as a dramatic series focused on character relationships and the pressures faced by professional athletes, even in a community not typically associated with high adrenaline sports like motocross, boxing, or crime dramas.

Using two 3D models, I created the title sequence in After Effects with a focus on simplicity and clear visual storytelling. The typeface was chosen to echo the typography found on ping pong balls. I built tension through slow-motion shots and an acoustic cover of Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance.” A black background allowed the paddle’s colours and the white ball to stand out, keeping the viewer’s attention on the key elements.

This project challenged me to work with cameras in 3D space for the first time. Creating believable scenes required learning how to light each shot so the paddles and ball cast realistic shadows. I spent significant time refining the lighting and synchronizing the pacing with the music to create a cohesive and engaging sequence.