Animation has come a long way since the classic Disney movies our parents grew up on. Today, animation is a global phenomenon, with artists and storytellers from all over the world pushing boundaries and experimenting with different forms and styles. While Disney remains a major force in the industry, there’s so much more to explore beyond the House of Mouse.
Here are a few examples of international animation that showcases the wide range of diversity and storytelling that exists beyond, and in some cases, in contrast to Disney.
Anime
Perhaps one of the most well-known examples of international animation to a Western audience, anime is a popular form of Japanese animation that has gained popularity worldwide. While anime ranges across genres and styles, it’s often characterized by its distinct visual style, featuring exaggerated facial expressions, large eyes, and stylized action sequences. Some of the most popular anime series include Naruto, Death Note, and Attack on Titan.
Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation studio founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki. The studio has produced some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed animated films of all time, including Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and My Neighbor Totoro. Studio Ghibli films are known for their lush hand-drawn animation, imaginative worlds, and strong environmental and anti-war messages.
Laika
Laika is a stop-motion animation studio based in Portland, Oregon, that has gained a reputation for its unique artistry and storytelling. Laika films, such as Coraline, Kubo and the Two Strings, and ParaNorman, are noted for their dark, atmospheric settings and themes that often take on deeper issues like grief and loss. What makes Laika stand out is its commitment to stop-motion animation, a technique that requires incredible patience and attention to detail.
Aardman Animations
Aardman Animations is a British animation studio known for its claymation work, particularly the stop-motion character Wallace and his canine friend Gromit. The studio has also produced feature-length films like Chicken Run and Shaun the Sheep Movie, all of which are noted for their witty humor and attention to small details. Aardman’s unique brand of animation has a distinctively British feel, and its tales are often infused with social commentary and dry wit.
Conclusion
From the anime shows we love as teenagers to the stop-motion characters we adore as adults, animation is an art form that continues to surprise and delight us. While Disney remains a huge influence on animation, there are so many diverse and imaginative styles to explore beyond that. By broadening our horizons, we can find even more stories to connect with and characters to love, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistic talent and creativity that animators from all over the world bring to the table.
