Publisher's Synopsis
Placing animation within the context of debates about British cinema and aspects of Britishness, this book identifies the aesthetic and socio-cultural agendas epitomized by British animated films from the early 20th century through to the brave new worlds of the 21st century. Addressing some of the enduring themes in British animation, the discussion locates British animation practices in a variety of theoretical and critical idioms drawing upon a number of models by which the distinctive and often subversive aspects of animation made in Britain may be identified and celebrated. The book includes interview material with leading British animators and draws together a variety of British animation forms including feature films, independent shorts, children's television, advertising, educational programming and television situation comedy. The author argues such work represents some of the finest examples of British art, media and cultural practice constantly re-engaging with the minutiae of British life and culture. He further concludes that British animation deserves greater recognition for its innovation and success as a model of British cinema which in its diversity and complexity rivals any other forms.
