Ultra-realistic animation, aesthetic engagement and the uncanny valley

Introduction

This paper examines the aesthetic qualities of two animated feature films, Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within and The Incredibles, as a precursor to considering what issues are associated with the shift toward ‘ultra-realistic’ animation. The concept of realistic depiction of animated characters will be analysed within the context of Western culture with a particular focus on the notion of aesthetic engagement.

How does a film such as Final Fantasy, clearly a technical triumph, suffer in comparison to the bright, burlesque qualities of The Incredibles? Shouldn’t the realistic aesthetic of Final Fantasy allow us to engage with characters to a greater extent?

The commercial and critical success of both animated features will be evaluated in relation to Masahiro Mori’s theory of the Uncanny Valley. Although proposed over three decades ago, Mori’s theory of emotional responses towards robots and other non-human entities offers distinct application to contemporary animation studies, supporting the argument that today’s computer technology may indeed be no match for a well-crafted story and characters.

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