Top-tier Animations from the '80s feature my Timeless Favorite
Animation in the 80s was a game changer! The decade saw a shift in everything from technology to artistic direction, and audiences embraced the world of animation more than ever.
Disney continued to dominate with movies like "Basil The Great Mouse Detective", "Oliver & Company", and the watershed release of "The Little Mermaid". Meanwhile, Japanese anime such as Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind and the works of Hayao Miyazaki began to gain international recognition.
In Britain, somber animated features emerged, reminding us that animation isn't always about laughter and fun. Movies like The Snowman and Twice Upon A Time captivated audiences with their unique visual styles and sentimental stories.
For those interested in diving into the world of animation, check out our guide to the best animation software. Don't forget to brush up on the 12 principles of Disney Animation too!
Here are some of my favorite animated films of the 1980s:
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Former Disney animator Don Bluth debuted his ambitious cel animation with this adaptation of Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. The film was praised for its fluid character movement, sophisticated lighting, and use of animated shadows. Bluth expressed his concerns about the future of animation at the time of its release.
The Snowman (1982)
A seasonal TV classic in the UK, The Snowman is an adaptation of Raymond Briggs' story of the same name. The film captures the silence of a snowy winter and its bird's-eye-view sequences were particularly impressive. Animation mentor Dianne Jackson guided animator Shaun Magher during his studies, leaving a lasting impression.
Twice Upon A Time (1983)
This film, directed by John Korty, was a cult classic that showcased a unique visual style using a technique called 'lumage' where cutout character designs were lit from below on a light table. The story is a fairy tale-inspired piece about two factory workers who thwart a tyrannical oaf's plans.
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this movie is an adaption of the manga and features a post-apocalyptic science fiction story. Miyazaki skills in arranging characters, space, and color shines through in this movie, as does his attention to composition, a distinction shared in his subsequent projects.
When the Wind Blows (1986)
Based on Raymond Briggs' graphic novel, When the Wind Blows depicts an elderly couple trying to survive a nuclear holocaust. The film's haunting visuals and somber tone left a lasting impression on those who watched it.
So there you have it, my picks for the best animated films of the 1980s. I hope you find inspiration and enjoy creating your own stories!
- Animation in the 80s was a transformative period, marked by a shift in technology and artistic direction, making it a beloved era for audiences.
- Disney produced notable films such as "Basil The Great Mouse Detective", "Oliver & Company", and "The Little Mermaid", cementing their dominance in the industry.
- Japanese anime, including Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind and Hayao Miyazaki's works, gained international acclaim during this time.
- In Britain, animated films like The Snowman and Twice Upon A Time emerged, demonstrating that animation could tackle serious themes and evoke sentimental stories.
- For aspiring animators, it's recommended to explore our guide to the best animation software and to study the 12 principles of Disney Animation.
- Don Bluth, a former Disney animator, made his mark with his debut film, The Secret of NIMH, which was praised for its fluid character movement, sophisticated lighting, and use of animated shadows.
- The Snowman, an adaptation of Raymond Briggs' book, is a Seasonal TV classic in the UK, notable for its bird's-eye-view sequences and unique visual style.
- Twice Upon A Time, directed by John Korty, used a technique called 'lumage' and showcased a fairy tale-inspired story about two factory workers thwarting a tyrant's plans.
- Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, was an adaption of the manga, showcasing his exceptional skills in arranging characters, space, and color, while maintaining a distinctive composition style.
