Understanding Animation

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.