In recent years, 2D and 2D-influenced animated films have taken center stage in the world of animation. This trend is evident in the nominees for the animated feature Oscar, where films like 'The Boy and the Heron,' 'Nimona,' 'Robot Dreams,' and 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' have utilized traditional 2D techniques or incorporated 2D aesthetics. It seems that 2D animation is making a comeback, reclaiming its place after a period dominated by CG animation.
However, it's important to note that the 2D animation we see today is not like the classic cartoons of the past. Filmmakers have embraced new techniques, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved visually in order to tell rich and compelling stories. The use of a 2D look is often intended for a mature audience or employed to convey complex and multi-layered narratives.
One example of this is 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,' which features six different animation styles. From the hand-cut, pasted, drawn, glued-together look for Spider-Punk's journey to the futuristic comic book-inspired world of Spider-Man 2099, the film explores the possibilities of 2D animation in innovative ways. The filmmakers employed a style known as '2.5D,' which combines elements of both 2D and 3D animation. This approach takes the 2D aesthetic to new territory, creating a visually striking experience that goes beyond traditional Saturday morning cartoons.
Another nominee, 'Robot Dreams,' draws its inspiration from a graphic novel by Sara Varon. The film tells its story in silence, much like its source material. The animation is characterized by its simple, sharp-lined 2D style, reminiscent of the aesthetic found in the popular animated series 'BoJack Horseman.' This choice of animation style serves to enhance the storytelling, showcasing the power of 2D animation in conveying emotions and messages.
The influence of Japanese animation master Hayao Miyazaki is also evident among this year's nominees. Miyazaki's film, 'The Boy and the Heron,' may possibly be his final work, and it maintains his signature 2D animation style. Toshio Suzuki, the film's producer, states that Miyazaki prefers this style as it allows for a more personal and specific look. Suzuki believes that audiences will always have a special affinity for 2D animation, appreciating its unique charm and the emotional connection it can create.
'Nimona,' another nominee, aligns its story with the chosen 2D animation style. The film follows a knight who is wrongfully accused of a crime and relies on the help of Nimona, a shape-shifting teen hero, to prove his innocence. The directors intentionally avoided a super-smooth and fluid CG look, instead embracing a more graphic and pose-to-pose animation approach. This decision adds to the film's overall aesthetic and serves the narrative by maintaining a graphic sensibility.
It's apparent that these filmmakers, whether working in 2D or CG animation, have been influenced by Miyazaki and his approach to storytelling through 2D animation. The beauty and emotionality of Miyazaki's films have left a lasting impact on many animators, who strive to create movies that move and engage audiences on a profound level. Miyazaki's legacy has become a touchstone for animators who value the warmth and personal touch that 2D animation can bring to their work.
The resurgence of 2D animation in recent years is not an isolated trend. Looking back at previous nominees, it's clear that a shift has occurred in the animation landscape. The dominance of CG-focused films has given way to a wider variety of styles and techniques. Stop-motion animation and 2D hybrids, heavily influenced by multiple animation styles, have also found their place in the industry. This trend reflects a desire among filmmakers to explore new possibilities and offer audiences something different from the slew of CG animations that have prevailed in recent times.
The evolving styles in animated films are a natural part of the creative process. Filmmakers often develop ideas that demand new tools and techniques to bring their vision to life. This constant evolution leads to the creation of unique characters and visually stunning worlds. Take, for example, the film 'Elemental,' in which the characters are composed of the four elements, requiring new CG tools to achieve the desired effect. Despite the advancements in technology, many animators still draw inspiration from 2D animation and its personal, handcrafted appeal. For these artists, animation is an art form that originates from their own sketches and imaginations, and they strive to preserve that essence in their work.
While the time and effort required to produce 2D animation can be demanding, filmmakers believe that the return to this medium is worthwhile. It offers them diverse ways to express themselves creatively, allowing for a more individualized and human touch. Hayao Miyazaki's collaboration with producer Toshio Suzuki throughout their careers exemplifies this sentiment. Miyazaki's autobiographical storytelling approach and his unique drawings have influenced countless artists, enabling them to bring their own imaginative visions to life.
As we witness the resurgence of 2D animation and its growing presence in the realm of animated films, we can appreciate the diversity and creativity it brings to the medium. Whether it's through the exploration of different animation styles, the fusion of 2D and 3D elements, or the homage to classic comic book aesthetics, filmmakers continue to find new ways to captivate audiences and tell captivating stories. The enduring appeal of 2D animation lies in its ability to create emotional connections, conveying narratives that touch the hearts of viewers.
