Theoretical and Philosophical Perspectives :: Emotion and Intersubjectivity

Animation can be seen from two theoretical perspectives: entertainment, and educational. Animation in entertainment is used in feature film, video games and television, is used to give life to characters and to drive the story. It can also be used to create believability for things that do not exist through the use of special and visual effects. In education, animation is used to make presentations more clear and engaging through moving graphics. Animating reenactments can also be used for educational purposes. An example of this can be seen on Discovery Channel where animation is used to recreate events from the past such as wars, dinosaurs or to demonstrate the effects of global warming.

A connection with the audience is present in all of these. Whether one is referring to an animated character, an animated "inanimate" object such as a lamp, animated text or shapes, or moving graphics for broadcast television, a connection with the audience is essential. Without it, you run the risk of an ineffective presentation. Monetarily, this is not a smart way to proceed, as animation requires a great many resources. The more ways one can connect with an audience, the more effective the message will be received. One of the many ways an animation can connect with an audience is through emotion and intersubjectivity.

Emotion in animation refers to the infinite portrayal of moods or feelings in a character or many characters to help convey story. Intersubjectivity refers to the ability of the audience to recognize an emotion or situation based on common experiences. If an audience connects emotionally and identifies with a character in these ways, a clearer more engaging animation is achieved.

Animation is a powerful medium. It gives a two dimensional surface such as a billboard or screen rhythm and vibration. As viewers, we are naturally attracted to this as it emulates what we see in life. An animator takes this knowledge to create believability, to breathe life into a character and to create effective connections with an audience.