In a recent article, it was suggested that the future of animated movies in theaters is in jeopardy, citing several flops from major movie producers and the underperformance of Disney’s “Wish” at the box office. However, this perspective might overlook several key aspects of the film industry and its evolving nature. Let’s explore why animated movies are far from facing their downfall.
To start, we take into context the current state of the film industry as a whole. While the article highlights flops in the animated sector, it’s important to note that animated films are not the only ones suffering from low ticket sales.
Take “The Marvels” — this star-studded sequel made headlines as the lowest-grossing movie in MCU history. And that’s just one in a long list of live-action bombs in 2023. So clearly, animated films aren’t the only genre struggling to bring in an audience.
The takeaway here: a handful of underperforming animated movies should not overshadow the successes and the potential of the animated film industry.
That begs the question, what can an animation studio do to create content that’s sure to break through at the box office? And to find that answer, let’s examine a few best-in-art-class examples of modern animated masterpieces.
“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” – A Kaleidoscope of Emotions and Styles
This film, which delves into the multiverse of Spider-Man characters, has not only garnered critical acclaim but also achieved remarkable commercial success thanks to its innovative animation style.
The animation team used a blending of traditional hand-drawn techniques alongside cutting-edge CGI. This unique approach allowed for a dynamic and immersive experience, capturing the essence of comic book aesthetics in a way never before seen on the big screen.
The narrative, rich with emotional depth and cultural relevance, resonated with a diverse audience, appealing to both long-time fans of the Spider-Man franchise and newcomers alike. The accolades and awards, including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, are a testament to its impact and popularity.
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is not just a successful animated film; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of animation and superhero storytelling.
Disney’s “Tangled”: A Modern Classic
A reimagining of the classic Rapunzel tale, “Tangled” is a prime example of animation’s enduring allure. This film blends traditional storytelling with modern animation techniques to create a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.
The character of Rapunzel, with her wide-eyed wonder and flowing golden hair, is brought to life through animation in a way that would be challenging to replicate in a live-action setting. This is twice as true for her color-changing pet chameleon, Pascal.
The movie’s success lies both in its technical brilliance, and in its ability to connect with audiences through a timeless story of adventure and self-discovery. And for that, we have the animation team to thank.
“Angry Birds”: From Mobile Screens to the Big Screen
Rovio Entertainment’s “Angry Birds,” which began as a mobile game phenomenon, made a successful transition to the big screen, further showcasing the versatility and appeal of animation. The transition from a game to a feature film was seamless, thanks to the vibrant and expressive animation that brought these beloved characters to life.
The film’s humor, coupled with dynamic and colorful animation, appealed to both children and adults, proving that animation has the unique ability to transcend age barriers and deliver universally enjoyable content.
Pixels Have the Power to Make Superhuman Connections
There is no denying it: animators can do things other filmmakers can only dream of. Unbound by the limits of reality, they can conjure new worlds filled with impossible scenarios and unforgettable characters. This ability to realize fantasy can have profound effects on the narrative and the viewer, creating memorable experiences that last well beyond the closing credits.
Looking ahead, the future of animation appears to be as bright and infinite as the horizon. The successes of these films underscore the genre’s ability to adapt to new mediums and new audiences. And as technology advances, and creative minds continue to dream up new storylines, you can bet that animated films will continue to win over the hearts and wallets of audiences worldwide.