Animation Before Computers - Summary

Summary

This video discusses the history of animation, focusing on the pre-computer era. The narrator explores various methods used to create the illusion of movement, such as:

1. Drawing on a long wall and pedaling a bike next to it to create the illusion of movement.
2. Creating a flipbook by drawing individual frames on paper and flipping through them quickly.
3. Using a zoetrope, a device that displays a sequence of images to create the illusion of movement.
4. Creating a barrier grid animation by drawing a series of images on a single sheet of paper and using a transparent grid to reveal different parts of the image.

The narrator also discusses the process of traditional hand-drawn animation, including the use of celluloid sheets (cels) and the labor-intensive process of hand-painting each frame. They also mention the importance of "onion skinning," a technique used to review previous frames and ensure smooth motion.

The video also touches on the history of animation, including the production of classic cartoons like Bambi and Batman, and the value of original animation cells. The narrator concludes by emphasizing the importance of appreciating the artistry and creativity involved in animation, regardless of whether it's created by hand or with the aid of computers.

Facts

1. Animation is created by showing a series of individual frames at a rapid speed.
2. The human brain processes these frames and perceives them as movement.
3. In traditional cartoons, every head turn, blink, and movement was meticulously drawn by a person.
4. Before modern technology, animators used various methods to create the illusion of life, including drawing on paper, sculpting 3D figures, and using a spinning table.
5. One method of animation was to draw out all the frames on a stack of paper, then flip through them quickly.
6. Another method was to use a barrier grid, where a transparent sheet with vertical bars was placed over a drawing to create the illusion of movement.
7. Cell animation was a popular method of animation before the year 2000.
8. In cell animation, each frame was hand-painted onto a transparent celluloid sheet.
9. The celluloid sheets were then laid on top of a hand-painted background and captured on film.
10. Animators used various techniques, such as onion skinning, to ensure smooth movement between frames.
11. Before computers, animators would draw out all their frames on paper, then flip through them quickly to get an idea of the movement.
12. Celluloid sheets were used to animate every TV show, movie, and anime before the year 2000.
13. Millions of cell sheets were created, and many have been sold to the general public.
14. Some cell sheets are worth a lot of money due to their rarity and historical significance.
15. Animation cells can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, allowing fans to own a piece of animation history.
16. Computers have made the animation process easier and more streamlined, but it is still a human expressing their creativity.
17. The scribble Showdown tour is coming back in January, and new holiday merch is available in the merch store.
18. The oddballs graphic novel is available in retail stores like Target, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart.