I used to think I was alone in my frustration with the current state of animation, particularly the frenetic energy dominating the genre. This sentiment solidified when I observed that the widely celebrated The Lego Movie didn’t even receive an Oscar nomination, despite its catchy theme song, “Everything is Awesome,” earning a place in the Best Song category. The question arises: why am I so disenchanted with animated films? After years of viewing hundreds as a film critic and a parent, I’ve come to find the genre overwhelmingly repetitive and, frankly, overwhelming.
Animation has devolved into a chaotic Minion frenzy, which, while cute, is utterly exhausting. My affection for animation was not always so diminished. Growing up during the golden age of Disney, I cherished films like Fantasia and The Wizard of Oz, recognizing the emotional resonance of beautifully crafted visuals long before I could articulate it. The balletic hippos in tutus were far more enchanting than any real-life nature documentary, showcasing art’s ability to evoke emotion through imaginative storytelling.
Television was no different; I was captivated by cartoons. I oscillated between the futuristic Jetsons and the prehistoric Flintstones, torn between two distinct worlds. As a parent, I eagerly introduced my children to classic animations. The tales of Dumbo resonated with me profoundly, particularly during sleepless nights and emotional daycare drop-offs. I was delighted to share Snow White and Peter Pan with my daughter, navigating complex themes of loss and betrayal in The Lion King together. These narratives, though aimed at children, offered essential lessons about life.
As my children grew, the landscape of animation flourished with networks like Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and Cartoon Network, ushering in a renaissance of creativity during the ’90s. We adored shows like Dexter’s Laboratory, lovingly dubbing my husband as “Dexter,” and enjoyed the more irreverent South Park. My admiration for the art form was reflected in a story I wrote about animator Genddy Tartakovsky, who noted that great cartoons were crafted with layered humor appealing to both children and adults.
So, what is my critique of The Lego Movie? I watched it with my teenage daughter while confined to a hotel room for a movie night. We shared laughs and snacks, all while engaging with social media. While the film’s cleverness initially entertained us, the relentless pacing and hyperactive themes became grating. I wondered if this frenetic style was truly beneficial for a generation of kids already struggling to focus.
That said, I don’t dismiss all recent animated films. I have a deep appreciation for titles like The Stone Giant, Finding Nemo, and the breathtaking works of Hayao Miyazaki, including Spirited Away. These films showcase the beauty and artistry that animation can offer. However, the overwhelming number of frenetic films has dulled my enthusiasm for the medium, akin to the aversion one develops after an unpleasant meal.
The Academy’s decision to overlook The Lego Movie may signal a turning point, yet it seems unlikely. Just recently, I found myself staring at a screen filled with a bouncing Minion, whether it was a teaser for the next installment of Despicable Me or a fast-food ad, it’s hard to distinguish. While I may be taking a break from this genre, Hollywood shows no signs of slowing down in its production of hyperactive content.
In conclusion, while I encourage exploration of animation as an art form, it’s important to seek out the gems that offer depth and artistry. For those interested in family planning and home insemination, you might find our other blog posts, like this one on intrauterine insemination, useful. Additionally, for those considering self insemination options, visit Cryobaby’s home insemination kits for reliable information. If you’re looking for a deeper dive into home insemination techniques, check out this informative article.