History & Critical Reflection in Animation I

Course Aims

• Students learn to position themselves in relation to aesthetic, social, cultural, and technical aspects connected to animation.
• Students learn to critically apply principles of animation film analysis to a selection of films relevant to their own projects.
• Students develop sensitivity toward perspectives on animation film from different cultures and regions worldwide.

Course Content

Through a series of masterclasses, students engage with screenings and analyses of animation films and productions that are significant to either the history or the contemporary state-of-the-art of the medium.

Rather than presenting a linear or singular historical narrative, the course introduces works representing diverse aesthetic, technical, and socio-cultural perspectives. Students are encouraged to critically situate themselves in relation to these topics and actively contribute their own viewpoints during discussions.

The masterclasses form the foundation for an individual video essay in which students address a movement, artist, genre, or series of films or productions connected to their own research project.

Active participation is essential. The course also includes sessions in which students present—individually or in groups—an overview of the historical and contemporary animation context of their own country or region, fostering intercultural exchange and comparative perspectives.

Evaluation

Deliverable

An individual short video essay including a critical reflection on aesthetic, cultural, social, and technical aspects related to at least one animation film, director, studio, movement, or institution. The essay should connect to course discussions and ideally engage with the student’s own research project and cultural background.

Assessment Breakdown

• 20% Active participation in classes.
• 30% First version of the script.
• 50% Final video essay.