Prototypes to Props: Building and Hacking for Film and TV Industry

Explore the fascinating world of film and TV prop creation in this 32-minute conference talk from the 38th Chaos Communication Congress (38C3). Join filmmaker, inventor, and former Mythbuster Davis DeWitt as he reveals the intersection of prototyping, art, and technology in bringing movie magic to life. Learn about real-world challenges faced when creating builds for entertainment, from initial prototype design through final filming sequences. Discover how to combine CAD, 3D printing, microcontroller programming, painting, weathering, and cinematography techniques to create special effects and props. Drawing from over 8 years of industry experience, gain insights into unique projects like smoke grenades and car explosions while understanding how to blend hardware hacking with artistic elements in prop creation.