Understanding Animation

<p>First Published in 1998. Understanding Animation is a comprehensive introduction to animated film, from cartoons to computer animation. Paul Wells' insightful account of a critically neglected but increasingly popular medium:<br>* explains the defining characteristics of animation as a cinematic form<br>* outlines different models and methods which can be used to interpret and evaluate animated films<br>* traces the development of animated film around the world, from <em>Betty Boop</em> to <em>Wallace and Gromit</em>. <br>Part history, part theory, and part celebration, <em>Understanding Animation</em> includes: <br>* notes towards a theory of animation<br>* an explanation of animation's narrative strategies<br>* an analyis of how comic events are constructed<br>* a discussion of representation, focusing on gender and race<br>* primary research on animation and audiences. <br>Paul Wells' argument is illustrated with case studies, including Daffy Duck in Chuck Jones' <em>Duck Amuck</em>, Jan Svankmajer's <em>Jabberwocky</em>, Tex Avery's <em>Little Rural Riding Hood</em> and <em>King Size Canary</em> ', and Nick Park's <em>Creature Comforts</em>. Understanding Animation demonstrates that the animated film has much to tell us about ourselves, the cultures we live in, and our view of art and society.</p> Introduction; Chapter 1 Thinking about Animated Films; Chapter 2 Notes Towards A Theory of Animation; Chapter 3 Once Upon a Time:; Chapter 4 25 Ways to Start Laughing; Chapter 5 Issues in Representation; Chapter 6 Animation and Audiences: ‘My mother used to call me Thumper!’;