Moving Pictures: A History of American Animation from Gertie to Pixar and Beyond

The history of cinematic animation in the United States is explored in detail in the book "Moving Pictures" by Darl Larsen, which Publishers Weekly describes as a lively chronicle of a perennially evolving medium. The book covers the transition from vaudeville sub-feature to craftsman-like artistry to industrial diversion and theatrical regulars, identifying and discussing the major figures, movements, and studios across nearly 120 years of animation. It follows animation from stage performance through to its use as wartime propaganda, its seven-minute heyday, and decamp to television, and finally the years of struggle as cartoons became feature films. It is an essential read for movie fans and a nostalgic revisiting of some of America's favorite films.

Format: Hardback
Length: 334 pages
Publication date: 21 May 2024
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The history of cinematic animation in the United States is a fascinating journey that has evolved over time. In the early days, animated films were simple sequential drawings photographed one at a time, creating comedic fluff or surreal escapist sequences. Today, animation is a global industry valued at nearly $300 billion and continues to grow in scope and popularity. In "Moving Pictures," Darl Larsen playfully lays out the history of American animation, from its vaudeville sub-feature origins to its craftsman-like artistry, industrial diversion, and theatrical regulars on par with blockbusters. Larsen identifies and discusses the major figures, movements, and studios across the nearly 120 years of animation in the United States. The book follows animation from stage performance through wartime propaganda, its seven-minute heyday, and decamp to television, and finally the years of struggle as cartoons became feature films. Covering everything from the generations preceding Mickey Mouse to recent releases such as "Super Mario Bros.," "Moving Pictures" is an essential read for movie fans and a nostalgic revisiting of some of America's favorite films.

Weight: 646g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538160374