A cinematic exploration inspired by The Maze Runner (2014), this project focuses on recreating the scale, tension, and visual storytelling of the iconic maze environment. The goal was to study how composition, lighting, and environmental design work together to evoke mystery and confinement while maintaining a sense of grandeur.
Each frame is approached as a film still, carefully composed to guide the viewer’s eye, emphasize verticality, and highlight the overwhelming presence of the maze walls. The project is grounded in realism, using physically accurate lighting, natural material response, and cinematic framing to reinforce the narrative of isolation and discovery.
PRODUCT BREAKDOWN
This project is built using a complete kitbash workflow designed for flexibility and high-detail rendering:
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Wall Design & Sculpting
The maze walls were fully modeled and sculpted in 3DCoat, focusing on heavy surface damage, erosion, and layered stone details to achieve a believable, ancient structure. Emphasis was placed on modularity, allowing pieces to be reused while maintaining visual variety across scenes. -
Texturing & Material Work
All assets were textured in Substance Painter, where procedural masks and hand-painted details were combined to create weathered surfaces. Dirt buildup, moss variation, and edge wear were carefully crafted to enhance realism and storytelling.
- Scene Assembly & Rendering
The environments were assembled and rendered in Blender, using cinematic camera setups and lighting rigs to replicate film-like compositions. Depth, scale, and mood were refined through volumetrics and controlled light direction. -
Post-Processing & Photobashing
Final touches were completed in Photoshop, where photobashing techniques were used to enhance atmosphere, sky elements, and environmental depth. Color grading and compositing helped unify each shot into a cohesive cinematic presentation.
This workflow allows for rapid scene creation while maintaining a high level of detail and artistic control, making it ideal for concept art production and cinematic studies.
PROJECT ASSET / KITBASH SET
You can explore or use the full kitbash set here: https://artstn.co/m/LmPe7