Cutout Animation
Overview
Cutout animation is a form of stop-motion animation that utilizes flat characters, props and backgrounds cut from materials such as paper, card, stiff fabric or even photographs. This technique has been used in a variety of contexts, from traditional cinema to television series and web animations. The process involves moving the cutouts around to simulate motion and change.
History
The history of cutout animation can be traced back to the early 20th century. One of the earliest pioneers of this technique was Lotte Reiniger, a German film director known for her silhouette animations. Her film, The Adventures of Prince Achmed (1926), is considered the oldest surviving animated feature film and it utilized cutout animation extensively.
Technique
The technique of cutout animation involves the use of flat characters, props and backgrounds cut from various materials. These cutouts are placed on a flat surface and the scene is set. The cutouts are then moved incrementally and photographed frame by frame. When these frames are played back in rapid succession, it creates the illusion of movement.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Cutout animation has several advantages over other forms of animation. It is relatively inexpensive and requires less time and resources than traditional animation. However, it also has its disadvantages. The flat nature of the cutouts limits the range of motion and expressions that can be achieved. Moreover, the process can be laborious and time-consuming, especially for complex scenes.
Notable Works
There have been numerous notable works that have utilized cutout animation. Some of these include South Park, a popular television series known for its satirical content and Terry Gilliam's animations for Monty Python's Flying Circus. Other examples include Angela Anaconda, Blue's Clues, and the music video for Take On Me by A-ha.
Modern Use
In the modern era, cutout animation is often used in digital format, with software replacing the physical process of cutting and moving paper or card. Programs such as Adobe After Effects and Toon Boom Harmony allow for the creation of cutout animation in a digital environment. This has opened up new possibilities for the technique, allowing for greater complexity and depth in the animations created.