Animation Industry Research Articles

Sustainable Development of the Cultural and Creative Industries in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Case Study of the Animation Industry in China

As a novel development concept and model, the cultural and creative industries have become an important sector of the global economy owing to their diverse development pathways. In particular, the animation industry surpasses traditional sectors in scale. This industry demonstrated unprecedented resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its critical significance in the global economy. In this study, the SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat)-PEST (political, economic, social, and technological factor) analytical model was employed to systematically assess various properties of the animation industry in China. Through an in-depth analysis of both internal and external factors affecting the industry and in consideration of conditions in the post-pandemic era, industrial development strategies across macro, meso, and micro levels were proposed to improve the existing development system. It was found that policy guidance at the macro level, improving the industry chain, integrating technologies at the meso level, and expanding target markets and financial channels at the micro level are key strategies for the continued development of the industry. This study offers new insights and directions for the sustainable development of the animation industry in China.

The rise of Chinese animation: policy evolution and industry development since the 1990s

ABSTRACT This paper examines the evolution of China’s animation industry policies from 1990 to the present and their substantial impact on industry development. The study identifies four main stages: the exploratory phase in the 1990s, the boom period from 2000 to 2011, the transition period from 2012 to 2016, and the rational phase from 2017 onwards. Each stage had distinct policy focuses, collectively driving a shift in Chinese animation from simple quantity growth to a more sustainable, quality-oriented development. Various supportive measures, including market access management, fiscal and tax incentives, and industry fund support, provided critical market space and financial resources, fostering technological innovation, talent cultivation, and broadening international collaborations. Despite notable achievements, the industry still grapples with challenges like an incomplete industrial chain, dependence on government support, and gaps in original content creation. This paper provides essential references for optimizing future policies, offering valuable insights for the animation industry’s development in other countries as well.

The ‘Skills Gap’ in the Animation/VFX Industry in Scotland

Integral to the animation and visual effects (VFX) industry are graduates with industry focused skills. Yet, the industry is rapid and ever changing, almost defying attempts to define it. How then should animation/VFX, and indeed any subject of a similar nature, be taught to best prepare industry-ready graduates? This article describes Animation/VFX industry perceptions ( N = 18) of current Animation teaching in further and higher education. Findings show that a large ‘gap’ in the ‘skills’ required exists, but with multitudinous perceptions and understandings of what this ‘skills gap’ is. The authors suggest approaches to plug this gap through attributes and aptitudes that could be developed in students, lecturers and industry opportunities for students. Further, they outline how closer industry and education sector collaboration may be achieved. However, they stress that, without government policy initiatives and investment, the prospects for the sector, and by extension for those in a similar situation, appear bleak.

KONTRIBUSI INDUSTRI ANIMASI INDONESIA TERHADAP EKONOMI

The animation industry in Indonesia has grown rapidly in recent years, fuelled by technological advances and the increasing demand for creative content in various sectors, such as entertainment, advertising, and education. This study aims to analyse the contribution of the animation industry to the Indonesian economy, both in terms of job creation, increasing national income, and exporting animation products. Using secondary data analysis methods from industry reports and government agencies, the results show that the animation industry has a significant impact on economic growth, especially in the creative economy. In addition, this industry has the potential to become a leading sector that can compete in the global market. However, challenges such as the lack of skilled labour and limited access to capital are still the main obstacles that need to be overcome. Recommendations include improving education and training in animation as well as government policy support to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesia's animation industry.

PELUANG USAHA INDUSTRI ANIMASI DI INDONESIA

The animation industry in Indonesia has shown significant growth in recent years, fuelled by the increasing demand for creative content across various media platforms, such as film, television, social media, and gaming. This research aims to identify business opportunities in Indonesia's animation sector and analyze the factors influencing its growth. The research method used is a literature study and a survey of local animation industry players, including animation studios, independent animators, and educational institutions. The results show that technological support, increased access to digital platforms, and government programs that encourage creativity provide excellent opportunities for the growth of the animation industry in Indonesia. However, challenges such as lack of investment, limited skilled human resources, and lack of access to international markets must be overcome. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of strengthening the animation industry ecosystem through collaboration between the education sector, government, and industry to create a business climate that supports sustainable growth.

Research on the Market Development of Cultural Peripheral Products: A Case Study of Animation Derivative Products

Today, animation and comic derivative products are one of the most popular branches of cultural and creative peripheral products. With the rapid development of the foreign animation industry, animation derivative products have made much profit for people. At the same period, it also becomes one of the vital research topics. Researchers found rich progress in derivative products. However, the issue of improving the development of Chinese animation and comics is still a lack of unified explanation and cognition. Therefore, this thesis aims to research the item of animation and comic derivative products market development through literature analysis and case study. The research found that the changes in consumers’ purchase intention, imperfect industrial chains, narrow audience groups, and difficult animation propagation are the main factors leading to the dilemma of animation derivative products. Therefore, Chinese animation should perfect the animation and comic industry chain by promoting content, derivative products’ marketing approaches, and breaking down single industrial barriers and limitations.

2D animation comic character action generation technology based on biomechanics simulation and artificial intelligence

AI can greatly improve the process of creating 2D character animations, especially for platformer games. The objective is to enhance visual effects quality and streamline production by incorporating biomechanics and AI-driven technology into the animation process. The current state of study shows that conventional 2D animation production has several problems, such as lengthy procedures, complicated technical requirements, and the requirement for human involvement. Both efficiency and innovation are limited by these limitations. To solve this problem, we suggest generating 2D character animations using AI-driven generative methods and biomechanics simulation. Consistently high-quality outcomes can be achieved by automating aspects of animation design. Improving animation industry innovation, streamlining production workflows, and decreasing manual labor are crucial. The viability of 2D animations generated by AI has been demonstrated in preliminary studies. Artificial intelligence’s effects on animation’s expressiveness, realism, and aesthetics are covered in detail. Furthermore, it has presented challenges with training data, choosing the right model, and fine-tuning. Beyond the field of gaming, our research has wider implications. Several industries may benefit from the benefits of 2D animations enhanced with AI and biomechanics technology. These industries include advertising, entertainment, and education.

Beyond Toy Story: Pixar's Business and Marketing Strategies for Enduring Success in Entertainment

As the animated film industry continues to grow, many companies are faced with a lack of content innovation and character innovation, and some companies continue to experience a decline in market competitiveness as well as an increase in investment risk as a result. However, Pixar Animation Studios, a subsidiary of the Disney Group, has created a series of classics through its compelling storytelling and superior animation techniques, which have not only won wide acclaim from audiences around the world, but also continue to set box office records. These achievements perfectly reflect Pixar’s innovation and market leadership in the animation industry. This study examines how Pixar continues to engage a new generation of audiences through unique storytelling and innovative strategies, as well as addressing some of the creative challenges it may face. The importance of the study is demonstrated by understanding the significant role that innovation has played in the development of the animated film company and how it has helped the company to address potential issues and challenges by approaching them from different innovative perspectives. Using a case study approach, this study assesses Pixar’s market performance, innovation strategies and potential for developing future growth through data analysis and literature research. The study finds that Pixar has successfully maintained its innovation and leadership in the animated film industry through technological innovation, creative marketing, cross-border collaborations, and adherence to originality, resulting in a series of award-winning productions such as “Coco” and “The Lion King”.

Plagiarism detection of anime character portraits

With the expansion of animation industry, there has been a recurring issue of animation plagiarism. Currently, the technology for copyright protection and plagiarism detection in animation is limited. This paper proposes a framework of plagiarism detection for animation character portraits. A Seq2Seq-based model is proposed for extracting the morphological features of animation portraits. By studying portrait morphological fitting simulation, a significant progress is made in learning facial characteristic of animation portraits. With the fitting mechanism, the proposed model can effectively learn the representative essential features of animation portraits. We also propose several loss functions to enhance recognizability and feature mapping ability between original and pirated animation portraits. By comparing the similarity between the pirated and original versions, plagiarism detection is carried out. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model has a good fitting effect and effectively detect the authenticity and piracy of the animation portraits.

A Paradigm Shift in the Malaysian Animation Industry: Inclusive Transmedia Storytelling and Cultural Preservation Contrary to Global Trends

This study critically examines the evolving consumption culture within the Malaysian animation industry, focusing on the shift from child-specific to familial viewership. Over the past two decades, the industry has experienced substantial growth in viewership and box office revenues, largely driven by local producers’ strategic adoption of transmedia storytelling. Through qualitative analysis of two prominent Malaysian animation franchises, BoBoiBoy and Ejen Ali, this study explores how interconnected narratives and cross-generational references across multiple platforms attract a wider audience while preserving cultural integrity. The methodology involves content analysis and audience reception studies to assess the impact of transmedia strategies on viewership patterns. Results indicate that a pan-family perspective in storytelling, which integrates diverse audience interests, contributes significantly to broadening the viewership base without compromising Malaysian cultural values. The findings demonstrate that adherence to local cultural aspirations remains a critical factor in distinguishing Malaysian animation from the global trend of adult-oriented content. The study concludes that transmedia storytelling offers a powerful framework for developing family-oriented animation that appeals to both children and adults while safeguarding local traditions. Implications suggest that this model may serve as a blueprint for future productions aiming to balance market competitiveness with cultural preservation. Keywords: Transmedia storytelling, Malaysia, animation industry, consumption culture, cultural preservation.

Research on the Design Aesthetic Characteristics of Chinese Digital Virtual Products in the 21st Century

The advancement of digital technologies profoundly impacts design art, particularly in virtual product design, where new expressions and effects, unattainable through traditional methods, emerge. Digitalization supports designers by freeing their creativity and enabling the embodiment of artistic pursuits. This transformation affects all stages of artistic creation, from concepts to expression, facilitated by the integration of digital technologies. The interactivity of digital virtual design promotes personalized, humane aesthetics through user participation.In the context of China's development, the animation industry's growth necessitates a unique cultural approach. Successful films like "Storm Rider Clash of the Evils" integrate Chinese elements and philosophy, reflecting traditional culture and values. This film exemplifies the fusion of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, presenting the idea of fate and the unity of characters in accordance with destiny. Martial arts scenes, rivers, lakes, and dynamic fights showcase innovative audio-visual effects. Despite some design flaws, the film's innovations and desire for innovation mark a significant step in the evolution of Chinese animation art, providing new creative opportunities and inspiring future projects. The film's cultural depth, blending traditional elements with modern trends, appeals to a broad audience, solidifying China's position in the global animation industry and showcasing its potential for innovation and cultural contribution.

The Transformation of Animated Character Images: A Perspective on the Shift in Contemporary Chinese Public Aesthetics

As a rising star among various film categories in China, animated films hold a pivotal position. Directly targeting a vast audience of children and teenagers, they enjoy a natural advantage in cultural dissemination and ideological guidance. Since the creation of China’s first animated film, The Big Stir in the Studio in 1926, a distinctive national style has been one of the most prominent hallmarks of domestic animation. With the integration of modern artistic concepts and advanced animation production technologies, Chinese animation has, after a rich developmental journey, ultimately formed its unique creative paradigm and aesthetic philosophy. As a “young” art form, animation employs a wide array of content expression methods, encompassing artistic forms such as ink wash painting, sculpture, watercolor, and oil painting. Its “all-encompassing” nature also determines that animation art possesses a strong “moldability,” making it more susceptible to the influence of various cultural trends during the creation process. This is particularly evident in the evolution of character design influenced by aesthetic preferences in different periods since the founding of New China. This article will delve into the transformation of public aesthetics since the establishment of New China by examining the artistic expression and gender body structures in characters from domestic animated films. It aims to contribute to the development of China’s animation industry and promote outstanding Chinese culture.

A Study on the Current Status of Taiwan’s Animation Industry and Promotion Policy

A Study on the Current Status of Taiwan’s Animation Industry and Promotion Policy

할리우드 상업 애니메이션 속 사회의제 표현 분석 - 브래드 버드 감독의 <아이언 자이언트>(1999)를 중심으로

Unlike Live-action Hollywood movies Hollywood animation movies have rarely expressed social agenda because they have been produced primarily for family audiences. In 1999, a feature animation directed by Brad Bird, “The Iron Giant” was released by a big studio, Warner Brothers. The director conveyed the strong message of humanity through the friendship between a lonely boy and a robot, created as a war machine and embodied it in beautifully animated images. This film expressing serious social agenda has been considered a classic masterpiece despite its box office failure. By studying the directing intention of this classic animation that emotionally expresses heavy social agenda, I hope to contribute to the advancement of the somewhat stagnant Korean feature animation industry for its the diversification of subject-matters.

Adaptation of Dream of the Red Chamber in the Age Ofmass Media: A Study on the Transformation of Animationand the Sustainable Development of Cultural Inheritance

Context: In recent years, animation has become an important vehicle for adapting literary works with its unique artistic charm and wide audience base. Given the classic status and influence of Dream of the Red Chamber, it is both necessary and feasible to adapt it into an animated film. Such an adaptation will transcend the limitations of traditional media, showcase the artistic charm of the work, attract young audiences, expand communication channels, and contribute to the sustainable development of cultural heritage by linking traditions with contemporary cultural values. Objective: The main aim of this study is to delve into the phenomenon of animated adaptations of The Dream of the Red Chamber, highlighting its importance in disseminating the classic work, and investigating its potential contribution to realizing sustainable cultural heritage development as a bridge between traditions and innovations. Method: This study adopts the literature review method and case study method to review the history and current situation of the film and television adaptation of Dream of the Red Chamber, and analyses the characteristics and difficulties in the process of adaptation, as well as the communication effect of the animation adaptation on the original text. Results: The study reveals how animation has injected new vitality into this classic literary work and effectively attracted young audience groups. It also highlights how the new media platform can broaden the communication channels of the anime adaptation, thus promoting the cross-cultural communication of Dream of the Red Chamber. Contribution: This study not only highlights the important role of animation adaptation in the inheritance of Chinese culture but also provides theoretical support for the integration and development of the animation industry and classic literature.

Research on the Strategic Role of Animation Majors in Local Applied Universities in Serving the Advantageous Industries of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area

In the context of the rapid development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the cultural and creative industries, as well as the animation industry, face new opportunities and challenges. As important bases for talent cultivation, animation programs in local applied universities need to effectively serve the region's advantageous industries, which is a pressing issue. This paper analyzes the current development status and trends of the cultural and creative industries and the animation industry in the Greater Bay Area. It explores the curriculum design and talent cultivation effectiveness of animation programs in local applied universities and proposes strategic pathways such as university-industry collaboration, innovative teaching models, faculty development, and international cooperation. The aim is to enhance the ability of animation programs to serve the regional economy and to provide strong support for the development of the advantageous industries in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Pendampingan Wirausaha Start-Up Animasi Berbasis Jasa

Over the past year, there have been developments in Indonesia’s creative industry, the animation subsector, both in providing services and producing IP independently. Although the animation sector industry researchers are presented with an effective and efficient animation industry model from ideation to distribution, the model is still difficult to use in Indonesia because of existing limitations so that they are still dependent on government funding. Whereas for the last 65 years there is still no real role that has been done by the Indonesian government to help the growth sector of this sector. So this raises the question of what other things can we do as private parties in developing IP by not relying on funding by the government? Animation, especially in IP production, ia a business with enormous prospects for its impact on the recovery, growth, and development of the Indonesian economy. There are author who have thought about methods that can be carried out or used in efforts to manage this sector. In an effort to realize the things that are dreams of creative industry business actors will be briefly discussed through this critical literature review.

Bibliometric Analysis of a Comprehensive of Culture and Symbol in Character Animation during (2004–2024)

The analysis of academic research on animated characters in the animation industry effectively summarises the current state of scholarly research on animated characters through a variety of software tools such as CiteSpace, VOS viewer, HistCite, and Bibliometrix analysis, and visually charts and formulates this data. Through study and research, it that the United States is (278) the most prolific country, and the United States has the highest intermediary centrality, as well as the most Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and PEOPLES R CHINA are the most cited organizations and Countries/Regions with the highest intermediary centrality and Countries/Regions with the highest citation explosiveness, respectively. This study also suggests possible challenges and future directions in character design for animated characters.

Scenario Planning of IP-Based Financing Scheme Implementation Study on the Animation Creative Industry

This research aims to conduct a strategic review for the future, describe the possibility of an IP-based financing scheme for the animation creative industry, and formulate alternative strategies to overcome the main problem of limited access to financing faced in developing IP-based businesses. The IP-based creative economy financing scheme in Government Regulation Number 24 of 2022 was a breakthrough and legal innovation in the creative economy sector. Providing access to financing credit from financial institutions for creative industries to develop their businesses, but its application has just been implemented. The SWOT approach and Delphi-based scenario planning were adopted to attempt the IP-Based Financing Scheme policy to become a concept that can be implemented in Indonesia and effectively anticipate problems in future policy implementation. Creating a scenario design matrix involves exploratory scenario planning, which begins with identifying two primary driving variables. The critical uncertainties that drive policy changes in future financing schemes for the creative animation industry were Government capacity and social factors. A 2 x 2 scenario matrix framework was built to describe possible future conditions and the implications of each condition so that strategic options are offered for the Government from each scenario implication.

Comparison of EEVEE and Cycles Rendering Performance in Blender 3.5 in the Context of Interactive Visuals for 3D Animation

This research aims to compare the performance of two rendering engines, namely EEVEE and Cycles, available in Blender 3.5, in the context of developing interactive visual 3D animation. The rendering engine is a key element in 3D animation production, and the right choice between EEVEE and Cycles can have a significant impact on the final animation result. In this research, we conducted a series of experiments and analyzes to evaluate rendering speed, the quality of the resulting images, and the ability to achieve the visual effects desired by the animator. The results of this research provide deep insight into the strengths and limitations of each rendering engine in interactive 3D animation scenarios. These findings can help animators, game developers, and similar creative professionals make more informed choices when choosing a rendering engine that suits their project needs. Thus, this research contributes to the development of rendering techniques in the growing 3D animation industry.