Contemporary Hollywood Animation: Style, Storytelling, Culture and Ideology Since the 1990s

The book explores how animation in the United States both responds to and recapitulates the values, beliefs, hopes, and fears of the nation, charting the major changes and continuities in Hollywood animation over the past thirty years.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

A comprehensive cultural history of contemporary Hollywood animated features, from Toy Story to The Lego Movie

This groundbreaking book delves into the critical examination of a diverse range of prominent contemporary Hollywood animated features, shedding light on the elements that make these texts appealing to multiple audience segments. It situates the genre within its social, cultural, and industrial contexts, contributing to ongoing debates on children's media.

Until the 1990s, animation held a relatively marginal position in Hollywood. However, today, it stands at the forefront of both the film industry and contemporary popular culture. Spanning over three decades, this comprehensive history offers an authoritative account of Hollywood animation since the 1990s. By analyzing dozens of key films, including The Lion King, Toy Story, Shrek, Despicable Me, Frozen, and Moana, the book explores the emergence of new genres and stylistic approaches, as well as the ongoing blurring of boundaries between animation and live-action.

Through meticulous analysis, the book identifies narrative and thematic patterns, as well as developments in industry and style. It delves into how animation in the United States responds to and recapitulates the values, beliefs, hopes, and fears of the nation. By examining the historical, cultural, and industrial contexts in which these films have been produced, the book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the genre's evolution and significance.

This essential resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of animation offers valuable insights into the past, present, and future of Hollywood animation. It serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of animation on popular culture.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399508070