Book Description

Animation: Genre and Authorship is an overview of the distinctive language of animation, its production processes, and the particular questions about who makes it, under what conditions and with what purpose. Arguably, animation provides the greatest opportunity for distinctive models of "auteurism" and revises generic categories. This is the first study to look specifically at these issues, and to challenge the prominence of live action movie-making as the first form of contemporary cinema and visual culture. Including extensive analysis of individual animators and their operation within studios such as Disney and Dreamworks, the book investigates the use of animation in genres from horror and science fiction to documentary and propaganda. ... Read more

Book Description

Career Diary of an Animation Producer is 30 days at a small animation company in Toronto. Some days are crazy and others are relatively calm. Through this period, a variety of projects are produced at Head Gear, from Halloween promos done in stop-motion, to the redesign of a movie channel combining live action, photo collages, and animation. All the projects present their own challenges but have a unique style. The role of the producer in her various roles is explored in this book. Riedl takes you from the conception of ideas to the final billing of the project, to most important…tea time. ... Read more

Book Description

This is a major McFarland reference work providing in-depth analyses of all puppet animation sequences in every film that has featured the process, including King Kong and Jason and the Argonauts. The focus is on how effective the sequence was and how it was executed. In addition to the analysis, each entry provides title, year of release, cast and production credits including producer, director, screenplay, director of photography, art director or production designer, music, stop-motion animators, armature builders, puppet makers, stop-motion cameramen, sequence supervisors, and more. Ratings of the film and of the effectiveness of its stop-motion sequences are also given. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The ultimate sourcebook....almost
This HUGE (almost 850 pages) tome is the ultimate reference guide to the motion pictures that utilize the fine art of stop-motion photography. From the obvious (King Kong, Jason and The Argonauts) to the obscure (Winterbeast, Frostbiter), this covers them all. Almost. I did notice a few omissions, most notably the Lou Ferrigno HERCULES movies from the early 80's, both of which I believe employed this process. Also missing was Godzilla Vs. Destroyah, which used the process briefly, and Godzilla Vs. Biollante, which had test footage in this process (the book covers other films that stop-motion was only used as test footage for). It also misses a couple of movies that utilized footage from Planet of Dinosaurs (Galaxy of Dinosaurs and Time Tracers). But other than these minor gripes, the book is fascinating, full of great pictures of all the monsters you forgot about (remember the stop-motion creatures from Coneheads? Howard the Duck? Didn't think so. But you SHOULD.). A great buy at it's high price tag, and well worth every penny. ... Read more

Book Description

For anyone looking to start a career in the highly artistic and rewarding field of animation, this book provides an introduction to this growing world-wide industry.Enlightening insights are provided by animation's legendary artists, including:

Stan Lee - Spider Man, The Fantastic Four, Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk
Noel Blanc, son of the legendary voice-over talent, Mel Blanc - Bugs Bunny
Bill Hanna - The Flintstones, The Jetsons, Tom and Jerry
Nick Park - Wallace and Gromit, Creature Comforts
and many more!

Ernest Pintoff is an Oscar-winning filmmaker who has taught animation throughout the world and has received numerous awards including The Winsor McCay Award for lifetime achievement in the field of animation presented by The International Animated Film Society, ASIFA - Hollywood.

KEY FEATURES:
* Written by an award-winning animator
* Contains many insights from influential animators
* Introduces the potential of a career in animation ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Disappointment
From the front covers and reviews, I was expecting better. If the editor was such an expert in animation, he should have noticed the blatant errors within many of the works inside.

For example, when they talk about Ralph Bakshi (who is one of my animation idols) they said that "Fritz the Cat" was a low budget animation picture. Wrong! They went over budget in "Fritz the Cat", and in fact when news got out that this X-Rated film was not only animated but on a large budget, it brought more people to the theaters. Another error in the same article was referring to Ralph Bakshi's "Streetfight", aka "Coonskin." It says that it appeared to bash blacks, Italians, and Jews. Jews? Maybe if you count the one rabbi that was on the screen for ten seconds just to tell Sonny he was supposed to kill the rabbit as making fun of Jews...but how can that be making fun of? Did the writer even see the film?

The biggest error in this book, however, was one that made my blood boil. I can't remember what the title of the piece was, but I will never forget the dumbest, most inaccurate words I have ever read:

"...after the release of Hayao Miyazaki's 'Ghost In the Shell,' Disney studios..."

Excuse me? Hayao Miyazaki did "Ghost In the Shell"? I know he did "Princess Mononoke" which caught the attention of the Disney company, but I thought "Ghost In the Shell" was released by Manga...? It was. "Ghost In the Shell was made by Mamoru Oshii, not Hayao Miyazaki.

I wouldn't be surprised if I saw this book accrediting the film "Grave of the Fireflies" to Chuck Jones.

There are better books on animation out there. I suggest the autobiographies of the animators themselves, not the so-called "experts."

Ditto!
I suppose it's hardly worth it to write a review when I agree with everything the former reviewer said...but just for those who want a second opinion, he's absolutely right. If you want animation lessons, look elsewhere.

But it's rather interesting to have a look through.

Interesting book, but the title is misleading
Ernest Pintoff is a renowned animation teacher and Oscar-winning filmmaker. In this book, however, he doesn't teach the reader how to animate. The book provides a brief history of the animation industry, before presenting 20 short articles by famous animators. These articles make up most of the book. Nearly every article reads like an interview, with the famous animator summarizing his or her career in animation. These articles did give me some insight into the animation industry, but I was a little disappointed and thought the book should have been titled "Animation History 101" or "Interviews With Animation Professionals". The book does provide a list of recommended books and films (with no explanations), a short glossary of terms, and a list of animation schools.

Some exellent books I have read on the subject are "Chuck Amuck" by Chuck Jones and "Talking Animals and Other People" (animation industry), and "Animation From Script To Screen" (animation technique), both by Shamus Calhane. ... Read more

Book Description

First time in paperback: The professional-and very personal-memoir of the legendary animator of Tom and Jerry, Yogi Bear, the Flintstones, and other cartoon classics

For more than sixty years, Bill Hanna has made entertaining children and the young at heart his "business." In A Cast of Friends, he offers an engaging look at his decades in animation and at the people who helped make it all possible. Hanna shares his memories of the tough and wild years at the beginning of animation, working with such legendary colleagues as Tex Avery and Friz Freleng. He describes as only he can the hard work and determination it took to make Hanna-Barbera Productions a success, with unforgettable behind-the-scenes stories of Daws Butler, Alan Reed, Mel Blanc, Casey Kasem, and other voiceover magicians. Throughout it all, he was determined to be a family man with his wife and their two children, to live a life different from Hollywood standards-and this adds a singularly personal aspect to Hanna's very special, insider's look at the history of animation. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Cartoons, Ltd
This ghosted autobiography is recommended to anyone interested in how the Hollywood animation industry of the golden age adapted to the labour-intensive demands of television. As one half of the Hanna-Barbera team that created Tom and Jerry for MGM in the forties and pioneered low-budget, high-output TV animation in the fifties, Bill Hanna has much of interest to say about the economic aspects of an artform that, during this period, was largely transformed by commercial concerns. However, if lively insight into the creative process is what you're looking for, this book is not for you. Hanna is essentially a business man, with his partner Joe Barbera apparently handling the creative side. The pleasure he takes in relating the building of H-B as a successful studio makes satisfying reading, but one often has the impression that he could have been involved in virtually any business -- it just happened to be animation. Therefore, the decline in quality from the early H-B TV shows onward is defended on the grounds that numerous jobs were created by the new conveyor-belt process, while the comparatively bland nature of so much latterday Saturday morning product (the early TV shows are great in their way) is justified on the grounds that it is "wholesome" (a favourite word), as if cartoons should only be made for young children. Hanna's philosophy is probably acceptable within the context of H-B's juvenile TV work, but falls down when he tries to present it as a continuation of the MGM shorts, where Tom and Jerry's more universal appeal was based partly on the artistry and expense with which their adventures were presented and partly on the fact that their relationship was the antithesis of wholesome -- violent and antagonistic to the end (and certainly not one of Hanna's "cast of friends" in spite of the uncharacteristic picture of them on the cover). I've previously found it hard to reconcile the high standards and complexity of the Tom and Jerrys with the worst of latter-day H-B, yet, between-the-lines, this honest account helps to explain the connection. It also acts as a reminder of how commercial demands can upend even the most successful of artistic ventures. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good book indeed
This is a book good for animators of all stages. It's animation design library contains great graphics and great design. For inspirations and further understanding of design concepts, this is the book. For all I can say, this book is worth all penny. ... Read more

Book Description

What kind of childhood experiences helped Heidi to become a successful Disney Animator?

Who inspired her?

Why did she become such a prankster?

What challenges did she face as a young woman striving to become an Animator at Walt Disney Productions in the 1970Â’s?

What was studio life really like?

Titter titterÂ…

What outrageous and hilarious things did Heidi and the other young Animators do while they worked for Disney?

Why did Heidi and 15 other gifted young Animators all walk out of Walt Disney Productions to make The Secret of NIMH?

Find out!

Heidi Guedel tells you all about it with unflinching honesty and humor.

Reviews (16)

WOW!!!
HEIDI NOT ONLYEXPOSED HER LIFE TO US , BUT I FELT LIKE I
WAS PEERING INTO HER VERY SOUL IHAVE NOT HAD THAT REACTION SINCE THE FIRST TIME I READ "CATCHER IN THE RYE"
HEIDI IS THE FEMALE 21ST CENTURY VERSION OF HOLDEN CAULFIELD. IT WAS FRANK, FUNNY, AND IRRESTIBLE.I ONLY HOPE SHE DOES A SEQUEL. IT CRIES FOR ONE. WOW! WHAT A LIFE.EDHAYES
LAGUNA WOODS CA. 92653

animatrix--a female animator:How laughter saved my life
This is a wonderful life story, written to perfection,filled with the rich personality of someone who has used the very hard things in life to bless not only her selfhood, but all who have or will be touched by the impact of her life. This is truly a book to share with those who seek the real vibrant and fully alive life. Thank you, Mrs. Guedel for such dedication,and for this gifted work. Carol

A Window into the Heart and Mind of an Artist
Many years ago I read The Agony and the Ecstasy, about Vincent Van Gogh.I've also read the autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini (a respected sculptor in ancient Rome).I find the psyche and intellect of an artistic person fascinating.This relatively unknown, independantly published autobiography of a Disney Animator has captivated me. Not many female artists have risen to this level of achievement - as both an artist and a writer.I consider this woman to be as gifted a writer as she is an artist.She has created crystal clear imagery with her words. I am struggling to offer something in my review that has not already been said, many times over, but it is difficult to avoid repeating (after so many other reviewers) that I could not put this book down!The depth and honesty is both refreshing and astonishing in its ability to touch me... to make me feel and see what this author experienced.

The various people in her life are multi-dimensional when she describes them.Even the parent figures who neglected and abused her are described with objective depth and poignant comprehension - like her step-father, whose appreciation for things of beauty (like roses, or star-sapphires) stood in such contrast to his frightening propensity for violence.

This book is ARTFUL... it is passionate... it is vulnerable and honest.And I believe that it has not been 'sanitized' by a commercially motivated professional editor.These are Heidi Guedel's REAL words -- a gem of a book that has not had the life chiseled out of it by the traditional, commercial publishing system.Self-publishing can often produce mediocrity... but it can also allow untrammelled brilliance to slip through and make it to the marketplace.If you enjoy learning about gifted people and their most personal, heartfelt, passionate thoughts... their deepest motivations, and entertaining life experiences, don't miss this book.It's a winner.

Just a wonderful book
This book is one of those outstanding little secrets that is gaining ground a little bit at a time... just from its reputation among the readers.Like everyone else keeps saying, I could not put it down until the last page.After reading this book, I feel like I really know and care about Heidi Guedel.Her story is powerful, vulnerable, open-hearted, honest, and thought provoking.In addition, she just writes beautifully.The descriptions of people and circumstances are vividand interesting.The writing just flows... nothing hangs you up while you are reading.The sentences have a kind of rhythm that varies in a beautiful way and keeps you alert while you read.This takes real talent.I recommend it very highly to anyone who is interested in unusual people, animation, womens' issues, childrens' issues, and what it was like to work at Disney studios at a time when they were trying to train new people to replace Walt Disney's "nine old men".Most of these original Disney Animatorswere still alive at the time, and Ms Guedel met and worked with several of the most famous Animators who ever lived.This life story is an amazing saga of determination, positive thinking and inner strength.I just loved it!

An Honest, Open-hearted, First-hand Account...
In '78, I was a young collector turned animation nut (and I have been in the business since). I visited the Disney Studios at the time described in Ms. Guedel's book, and I just had no idea what went on... I do now. The Disney Studio was an animation studio - like my own - with Originals, Characters, Intrigues, Affairs. At last we get a personal insight into a period that seems to have been forcefully obliterated from Disney history, after the departure of "The Bluth Gang" (as the Disney people called them). Though the Disney period is not a large part of the book, it is well worth the price of purchase just for that, already. A more honest account I have yet to see... ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Gardner's Storyboard Sketchbook is a 200 page 70lb quality drawing workbook for planning/designing an animated story or film. Contains storyboard templates, character drawing sheets, and storyboard example from Pacific Data Image, Academy of Art College and more. Provides an excellent way to organize a project. This book also contains camera and character motion keys that are standard to the industry. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

This ¿book¿ is totally useless!
I was really disappointed when I open the package and saw this book, from the Gardner's Series. It definitely doesn't worth a penny. From the 100 pages, 80 is just a bunch of paper for you to draw! Besides, the storyboards examples have no explanations about how they were planned. This "book" is totally useless.

Works for me
A book for sketching story ideas. I have been looking for a book of this kind. Perfect for what I needed.

Finally a Sketchbook for Animators
I have used my sketchbook to draw out various story Ideas. Excellent book. I love it.

High price pack of paper.
Gardner's Sketchbook is just that a book for YOU to sketch in. The entire text of the book is comprised of only the captions at the bottom of of storyboard illustrations which are only on 16 pages of the book. Instead of buying this book I would go with "The Art of the Storyboard: Storyboarding for Film, TV, and Animation" by John Hart. It is priced the same as this book but it is a more informative text. This book only gives two example templetes one for storyboarding (which can be found along with many other variations on the web at several animation sites) the other for character design (a blank page with the heading of "Charater Design"). This book should be priced as a pack of paper about $[money].

It's not e book
It's not a book , it's only white paper ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Historical interest only!!!
Some clarification is needed here - this book is a reprint of a book from 1920, and although you might glean some tips on how to animate that are still relevant, this is NOT the book to buy if you're looking to learn the craft - it has been reprinted purely for historical interest. There's nothing here that is not outdated or superseded. If you want to learn animation, the books you really need are Tony White's 'Animator's Workbook', and Richard Williams's 'Animator's Survival Kit'. That said, if you're already a clued-up animator, or interested in the history of the craft, this is a fascinating book, representing as it does the state of the art just a few years before Disney appeared on the scene and set new standards. Historically - wonderful. Instructionally - look elsewhere.

A book that made history...
Maybe I will not read every word of this book, but just knowing it is on my shelf makes me give it 5 stars, being a landmark in the history of animation, also being the book Walt started out with...
For animators then, it was comparable to, what Frank & Ollie's 'The Illusion of Life' is now (if you are looking for THE book on animation, start here), or Preston Blair's book (when there only was one) when I started in animation in the 70's...

Complete disappointment
I don't have the luxury of being able to go to the big store in Canada and America. I order this book along with some others. I wish I could return it, but my international shipping charges would be worth more than the book.

This book is outdated. Even at a cheap price, it's not full value. Don't bother. If you looking for animating on the computer and thinking this might be a reference, you're wrong. Save your money. If you're animating in 2D, and you're an absolute beginner, look elsewhere, as it's not good value.

Stay away.

As an animation art teacher I'll use this for my students.
This book is the best place to start actually making animation. Equipment construction is explained well enough to start a professional studio. Techniques are clearly described and perfect for students of the art. Extras are the theory of what is funny and why, but mostly, the uses animation may serve in education. Many great old illustrations of walks pepper this volume. If you like to draw in ink, this book is for you. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The second edition in Rita Street's popular series that highlights thebest of commercial, student, and industrial animation is an inspiring collectionof contemporary computer animation. Although the vast majority of content inThe Best New Animation Design 2 is computer-generated 3-D animation,there is also a sprinkling of traditional cartoon-looking work, and even somemotion graphics pieces.

Divided into various sections covering commercials, films, television, games,and student work, this glossy, lavishly illustrated book features work of allkinds and styles. Especially handy is a directory listing of studios, completewith street addresses (but not e-mail addresses or URLs).

Most of the people involved in any one production are acknowledged, with thenames of the producing studio, the client or agency, the main directors andproducers, and the software that was used listed individually. The majority ofspots feature a paragraph or two that outline the process that was involved orthe new technique that was developed for the spot.

The only problem is that there is no actual way to see the animation. Anaccompanying CD-ROM containing QuickTime versions of the clips--or, better yet,a DVD--would have made this magnificent gallery book educational, too. --MikeCaputo ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Exceptional CG Animation Sampler
An exceptional tabletop book highlighting some of the most exciting and up-and-coming CG companies and schools in the industry. The wide variety of content illustrated is methodically broken up in well designed chapters covering commercials, films, television, games, and student work. Descriptions of how images are created demonstrates matter of factly that its not the meat of the machinery or the software tool but the artist in motion that makes an exceptional animation. ... Read more

Book Description

Animation has had a global renaissance during the 1990s, and nowhere is this more evident than in Asia.The lavishly illustrated Animation in Asia provides the first continent-wide analysis of this art form, delving into issues of production, distribution, exhibition, aesthetics and regulation, in this burgeoning field. Animation in Asia also offers vignettes of the fascinating experiences of a group of animation pioneers. The historical and contemporary perspectives derive from interviews, textual analysis, archival research, and participation/observation data. ... Read more