Writing an original feature is much more fun and more challenging than writing for TV
animation. Of course, the script must be written better, too. Each major studio has its own
style. Your story should have uniqueness and universality.
Fully developed and well-motivated characters that are appealing and have an attitude
are especially important in a theatrical feature. Today’s kids need to be able to relate to that
attitude. Many animated features are buddy comedies. Characters are usually broader than
typical live-action film characters, and they’re action oriented. They should be dealing with
events that lead to a life change. They are less likely to be clichés. They might be less direct
than characters for television, talking around problems and hiding their fears. Interesting
characters make an interesting story, so animated stories may be told through the point of
view of the character actors of the story (the animals, the villains, the humorous characters)
rather than the more ordinary hero or heroine. The hero is often accompanied by a funny
sidekick.
The Animated Feature 279Figure 16.1 Adventure, comedy, fresh characters with an attitude saving the animals! Who can resist
this feature from Klasky Csupo?
The Wild Thornberrys, Copyright © 2002 by Paramount Pictures and Viacom International, Inc. All
rights reserved. Nickelodeon, The Wild Thornberrys and all related titles, logo and characters are trade-
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