Notes

After reading Notes Towards a Theory of Animation, I feel that I have a grasp of what makes experimental and orthodox animation different. The piece specifically brings forward the aspects of animation design that separate the two. It was nice to see it layed out for me. I used to could say, This was experimental and this was typical narration but now I think I can back it up. I liked how the author really went into detail about the beginnings of animation, and their development into narratives. I think that orthodox narration is a less artistic endeavor. The idea is that the audience is expecting a series of scenes that make a story, or a scene that consists of jokes. Experimental animation really enables the filmmaker to put his or her own personality into the style and content. I agree with Welles about the two distinct uses of music.
I will also add, that perhaps experimental offers a more precise and true application of music because in orthodox animation music is most often used to establish or progress the narrative. With the experimental style, an artist can attempt to replicate the rhythm, moods, and tones of the piece of music through animation. This piece really made me want to watch Duck Amuck again.
Experimental animation is very liberating, but at the same time potentially frightening. The potential avenues you can take are endless, which is intimidating to someone who is mostly familiar with orthodox cell animation. With the traditional animation, "What is needed" is always what benefits the narrative. Not so with experimental. Its more of like Lets put it all on the table.
I am extremely excited to get started on our 3 plane animation project. Corey and I went out searching for awesome things to animate with. I think we will be able to make something really cool, out of a surfer beach theme. This actually is perfect because with the warm weather everyone is in that kinda beach mood.