(Image Source: Sony Pictures)
Since the critically acclaimed, genre-bending 2D hand-drawn and 3D hybrid animation style of "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" debuted, the Western animation industry has seen a surge in films adopting a similar aesthetic. Titles like "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish," "Wish," and "Nimona" have all embraced comparable visual approaches, seemingly sparking a minor renaissance for 2D animation.
(Image Source: Pinterest)
Addressing this trend, Jared Bush (pictured above), co-director of the original "Zootopia" and currently Chief Creative Officer at Walt Disney Animation Studios, acknowledged in an interview with The Wrap that visual breakthroughs and evolution are indeed crucial. However, he emphasized that change should not be pursued merely for the sake of it. Bush pointed out that many aspire to emulate the "Spider-Verse" art style without realizing that its unique look is deeply rooted in the original comic book language, rather than being a purely aesthetic choice by the production team.
(Image Source: Disney Pictures)
Bush elaborated, stating that as creators push boundaries and strive for innovation, they must consider whether the visual style aligns with the film's core essence. He stressed the importance of audiences perceiving the style as an integral part of the creators' vision and the story's need for visual evolution, rather than a deliberate attempt to be different. Bush also teased that Disney, which has not produced a fully hand-drawn animated feature in some time, is now developing new material. He expressed his fondness for 2D animation, noting that a team of 2D artists at the studio is currently creating "some really amazing stuff," adding that he would leave it at that.
via： The Wrap