"For some, animation is associated with cartoons, Disney and The Simpsons. At the other end of the spectrum, however, are complex, abstract and often obscure films, which occupy a space between filmmaking, fine art and graphic design. The animators draw their inspirations from their surroundings as well as music, literature and nature and can incorporate a fantastic range of materials, from paint to photography, or sand to dead moths. The directors' personal investment is immense as the films can take years to complete. Despite all their talents, however, independent animation has yet to gain the recognition it deserves." "Animation Unlimited features 50 seminal short films by key animators from around the world, from early pioneers such as Oskar Fischinger and Mary Ellen Bute, to contemporary animators such as Michael Dudok de Wit, Tim Hope and Run Wrake. All of the films included are personal work, which are often independently produced. While some of the featured directors are artists whose only income is their films, many make a living from commercial animation. Here, freed from the constraints of a client brief, they use their short films to experiment with new ideas and techniques, many of which subsequently find their way into their commercial work." "Grouped according to four main themes - form, sound, words and character - all types of animation are featured, including 2D, 3D, digital, stop frame, direct filmmaking and Flash animation. Beginning with an insightful overview of the contemporary industry of animation, there is a brief biography of each director alongside each film, including technical and creative credits and comments from the director where possible."--Jacket.