Stop-motion puppet animation has an enduring appeal and power, from children's animated classics such as Bagpuss to the big screen productions of Wes Anderson (Fantastic Mr Fox and Isle of Dogs) and Tim Burton (Frankenweenie and Corpse Bride) while also embracing cutting-edge independent filmmaking.
The craft holds a particular nostalgia for generations of British children raised on Pingwings, Postman Pat and El Nombre. It's something that British stop-motion talent has excelled at, and that hasn't gone unnoticed by American filmmakers who appreciate the craftsmanship.
As a method of production it is delicate and time-consuming and the hand-crafted impact of the puppeteers can often be traced on-screen, creating a unique charm all of its own. It can also be more inexpensive to produce, attracting independent filmmakers with new possibilities in mind and challenging ideas. Though labour intensive, the result harbours rich storytelling for young and old.
