Author: Charlie Zuo (Page 3 of 3)

群青

The animation for the music video “群青” by YOASOBI was created In collaboration in adaptation of the manga “Blue Period.” A manga that delves into the protagonist’s awakening to the world of art and the emotional pain that follows. The visuals are designed to complement the song’s themes of artistic struggle, self-expression, and a journey towards achieving personal independence and freedom. It delves into themes of self-realization and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams and freedom. Resonating with the idea that true freedom is achieved only through independence, both emotionally and intellectually. The deliberate use of vibrant color and the abstract visuals all come together to portray the highs and lows of this journey.

These types of animations holds a significant importance to me because of how they visually and emotionally communicate complex human experiences that words alone often cannot fully convey. I can not only relate to these kinds of works, but also know that they’re basically asking you through clips of images the essence of your own existence, what your purpose.

Sources

https://www.reddit.com/r/YOASOBI/comments/12l09a3/whats_the_lore_of_gunjo/
https://www.reddit.com/r/YOASOBI/comments/12l09a3/whats_the_lore_of_gunjo/

https://zh.wikipedia.org/zh-hant/群青_(歌曲)

Charlie Zuo

Hand Animation

I chose the Cooking with Wool: Pizza Animation made by Andrea Love, and it definitely fits in the Hand Animation category since there’s a literal hand in the film 80% of the time. The stop motion animation is definitely very smooth and has a well put goal. You make a pizza with wool. There’s not much to say other than it’s really well made and creative.

The Indexical Animation

-Puparia (2020)

I chose the film, Puparia for the Indexical animation because of its strong emphasis on creating a strong connection between the animated world and reality. Thus, it uses realism and symbolic imagery to establish a bond with the viewer. Even though Puparia doesnt follow a certain narrative, it presents a surreal, dream-like imagery throughout the animation. It’s often interpreted as a metamorphosis, and the beauty of change. 

The Illusion of Life

The Maker (2012)

For the last theme, the Illusion of Life, I picked The Maker, created by Brian Micheal Bendis (2011). It’s about a puppet rabbit-like-creature, who is racing against time to create a doll-like figure. It becomes clear towards the end that who he’s making is his companion, yet, there would be no time to establish a strong bond before he disappears. Leaving only his confused companion just where he was with the same purpose of its existence. It’s a time paradox, and it’s definitely fitting with the theme, hence how the film revolves around the act of creation, the maker gives life to another puppet. This is literally what the “Illusion of Life” theme is, infuse life into something that is inherently lifeless.