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Animation's Identity Crisis: Kids' Stuff or Cinema?
20 Jul
Summary
- Animation is a reliable moneymaker, with Super Mario Bros. Movie crossing $1 billion.
- Some industry professionals see animation as a 'babysitter' medium.
- Laika promotes its films as movies, not specifically animated ones.
Years after "animation is cinema" was declared, Hollywood still perceives the medium as a secondary art form. Despite being a reliable moneymaker, with The Super Mario Bros. Movie recently surpassing $1 billion in 2026, animation is often relegated to "babysitter" status. This perception is frustrating for industry professionals who see their work financially rewarded yet undervalued.
Some leaders within the industry acknowledge animation's financial contributions but also suggest the medium could elevate its content beyond "funny, goofy" themes. An alternative approach is being championed by studios like Laika, which markets its films as cinematic experiences irrespective of their medium, allowing audiences to discover them organically. This strategy aims to bypass the stigma associated with animation.
The debate extends to prestigious awards like the Oscars, where many believe animated films face an uphill battle for "Best Feature" recognition. Professionals are divided on whether the industry can overcome the inherent bias that often categorizes animated works as less serious than live-action counterparts. Overcoming this perception remains a significant challenge for the animation sector.
