Animation Styles We Can’t Get Enough Of

Animation has been captivating audiences for over a century. Since the release of the French short film Fantasmagorie in 1908, it has evolved in ways we never could have imagined. From traditional hand-drawn methods to advanced digital creations, animation continues to surprise, delight and push the boundaries of storytelling in the present.

Each style of animation has its strengths and charm – there truly is something for everyone. Here are a few of our favorites.

Stop-Motion Animation

Stop-motion animation involves photographing physical objects in incremental movements to create the illusion of motion. This style is often utilized for a handcrafted, nostalgic feel – think Wallace and Gromit or Chicken Run. Conversely, stop-motion films like Coraline use this style to lean more into the uncanny.

We Recommend: Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009), which is playful, witty and just about the most Wes Anderson thing we’ve ever seen.

Hybrid Animation

Hybrid animation is a combination of 2D and 3D, which utilizes the strengths of both mediums for a memorable viewing experience. One great recent example is the Netflix series Arcane, which features rich, textured backgrounds and fluid movements reminiscent of traditional animation. Not only is this style visually captivating, it enhances the emotional depth of the storytelling and makes the cyberpunk world more immersive.

We Recommend: Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988), which feels just as innovative today as it did upon release. The hybrid animation heightens slapstick moments that wouldn’t be as funny in a purely live-action context.

Experimental

Look, we know experimental films aren’t for everyone, but there’s no denying they lend a fresh storytelling perspective, challenging us to think about and approach material differently. Consider the “synesthetic” art style of Fantasia (1940): the animation responds to the rhythms, melodies and moods of the score. In other words? Viewers get to “see” music while watching the film.

We Recommend: Angel’s Egg (1985). This Japanese’s film’s deliberately slow pacing, otherworldly hand-drawn aesthetic and existential themes will leave you with more questions than answers. And that’s why we love it.

Motion Graphics

Motion graphics are deceptively simple yet effective. This form of digital animation combines graphic design principles with filmmaking techniques, creating the illusion of motion or transformation. They’re a great way to convey complex ideas in an accessible and visually appealing manner. Need to inform, entertain, or persuade your audience to act? Motion graphics are the way to go.

We Recommend: Bullseye Media – you read that right! Whether you need a product demonstration, short clips for social media, animated infographics or something else, we recommend animation from our lineup of marketing services.

Make Your Marketing More Animated

In the history of storytelling, animation is a relatively new art form, but there’s no denying its power to capture imaginations and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Bullseye Media would love to help you animate your vision. Contact us today to get started.