Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Action in Performance
and Acting
A great deal of the animation that is made using all kinds of techniques
and intended for distribution through different formats concentrates on
performance-based animation. Not all of it involves performance, of course,
but such a large proportion of animation does involve acting and performance,
whether for the obvious formats such as feature films and TV or the less
obvious ones such as commercials, corporate video, and interactive work,
that it becomes essential for all animators who want to work commercially
to give this serious consideration. Acting and performance constitute such a
big topic that to cover it extensively and comprehensively would be a work
of considerable magnitude dedicated to this subject alone. This chapter
does little more than touch on the subject and point out how animators may
begin to use observation and analysis to deconstruct performance, to look
at the structures that make up a performance and that will ideally lead to a
more in-depth study and
practice
of acting. I encourage animators to look
beyond animation for guidance here. Few texts are dedicated to the topic
of performance and acting specifically for animation, but many more cover
the subject in a live-action context, whether for screen or stage. As I have
