The research in this paper explores the rift between mainstream studio animation and the rise of independent animation, particularly in terms of labor practices, creative freedom, and audience engagement. The central question investigated is how studio animation has contributed to the animator’s disillusionment for in-studio animation while the works of independent creators gain more attention and support. A comparative analysis was conducted, using industry reports, case studies, interviews with animators, and audience metrics from both studio and independent productions as sources of information.  The research reveals that studio animators frequently experience unstable employment, toxic work environments, and limited creative input due to corporate meddling. On the other hand, independent animators, although often underfunded, benefit from a larger amount of creative freedom, direct audience interaction, and alternative funding methods such as crowdfunding. The audience’s shift towards independent projects suggests that people seek for entertainment that is more unique and that studios are failing to capture the attention of audiences like they used to.  The key takeaway is that the resilient nature of independent animation could prove to be a serious competitor to major studio animation and that the future of the animation industry could become a creator-driven and stable environment for the artists and animators that work within it.

Capstone Project: Animation