Puppet animation is developed from object animation. Instead of using objects, it uses puppets. Puppet animation is a kind of development to stop motion animation, not to introduce puppets in different frames, but because puppets have human qualities, so directors can move puppets more freely and show different actions more easily It works by taking pictures and moving puppets in different frames.
The Hand is a 1965 Czechoslovak stop motion puppet animation film directed by Jiří Trnka. The plot is about when a craftsman in the industry of making flowerpots devotes himself to his work, he is forced to make a statue for a huge hand. The craftsman refuses to obey the orders and drives the hand out of the door. However, this hand cannot be driven away. It is everywhere. In addition to the doors and windows, it can also convey the orders by telephone, television and newspaper. In the end, the artisan gave in, but he had to be strictly controlled to work in a huge cage, and once he stepped into the cage, he could not get out.
The fate of craftsmen and various suggestive performances of the hand. The conflict between power and individual is sharp and oppressive in the narrow space. Although the scene and puppet expression are not rich, the puppet’s action performance is excellent. Whether it’s the quick broom or the flustered little movements. In the same way, the performance of the hand is also indispensable. The slightly delicate movements and the conversion of black and white gloves make the negative role full of vitality.
The mastery of lens, lighting and splicing control in many roles reflects the director’s superb skill level.
ANIM223 - HISTORY OF ANIMATION - FALL 2019 