All articles tagged with #stop motion animation
Adult Swim's new stop-motion series, Women Wearing Shoulder Pads, is a culturally rich show set in Ecuador that explores Latin American identity, queerness, and political themes, and is notable for being primarily in Spanish to authentically depict local life.
The beloved claymation special "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" celebrates its 60th anniversary, continuing to air annually since its 1964 debut. Created by Arthur Rankin, Jr. and Jules Bass, the film's enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes of overcoming adversity and finding acceptance, resonating with audiences across generations. Despite some controversies and changes over the years, including the fate of the misfit toys and accusations of bullying, the special remains a cherished holiday tradition.
Nintendo has released a brief stop-motion animation to promote the upcoming Mario vs. Donkey Kong remake for the Nintendo Switch, showcasing the game's Mario toys. The game is set to launch on February 16, 2024, with a free demo already available on the eShop.
Mark Gustafson, a renowned stop-motion specialist and Oscar winner for his work on Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, has passed away at the age of 64. Known for his contributions to stop-motion animation, including the California Raisins and Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox, Gustafson leaves behind a legacy that has shaped the careers of countless animators. His collaboration with del Toro on Pinocchio earned them several awards, and his impact on the animation industry will be remembered.
Peacock's stop-motion animated series "In the Know" features NPR host Lauren Caspian, voiced by Zach Woods, and offers droll humor with deep-cut references and real video interviews with celebrities. While the show's muted quality aligns with NPR's droll register, it occasionally aims for more uproarious comedy. The series' best moments come when it delves into the characters' genuine and poignant aspects, showcasing the fear of being ordinary beneath their fussy habits and political stances.
As "The Nightmare Before Christmas" celebrates its 30th anniversary, the filmmakers reflect on how the unconventional stop-motion animation musical initially unnerved Disney executives. Released under Disney's adult-oriented label Touchstone Pictures, the film didn't fit the mold of their other animated films and was feared to hurt the brand. However, over the years, the movie has gained immense popularity, with live concerts, seasonal attractions at Disney theme parks, and a wide range of merchandise. The film's enduring appeal lies in its memorable songs, unconventional storytelling, and unique design. Despite the success, there are no plans for sequels or reboots, making the original film a one-of-a-kind feat.
The Japanese commercial for Final Fantasy 16 features renaissance-style paintings animated in stop-motion style, with a dramatic music background and poetic Japanese voiceover. The video ends with a few set-piece moments from the upcoming PS5 game, reminding viewers of its release on 22nd June. Square Enix confirmed a day one patch and that the game was originally intended to ship on two discs.
The Spirit of the Samurai is a 2D Metroidvania-style action game inspired by classic stop-motion animation, paying homage to Ray Harryhausen films. Players guide a samurai, a Kodama spirit, and a cat on a journey to save Japan from invading Oni. The game features hack-and-slash combat, platforming, and stealth gameplay, and is set to release in 2024 for PC.
Adam Savage visits Tippett Studio and talks with stop-motion master Tom "Gibby" Gibbons about the Cyclops creature from the Peacock series Poker Face. The puppet was a standout from the episode "The Orpheus Syndrome" and was created using technical wizardry and inspiration from Ray Harryhausen. The behind-the-scenes look showcases the creativity and talent that went into the finished product.
HIDARI is a beautifully realized samurai battle short film made using stop-motion animation, following the trend of adult-oriented stop-motion films. The film demands intense attention to detail and the patience of a saint. Stop-motion animation is finally getting the respect it deserves in modernity, and HIDARI is a great example of the medium's potential.