Joel Trying to Compare and Contrast

The Hand” by Jiri Tnkra and “Punch and Judy” By Martin Maj

Stop motion animation in my own opinion is one of the purest forms of animation. The goal of all animation is to give the impression of life and energy to something that does not actually have it. The audience should be able to read real emotions and desires on an inanimate object, and two great examples of this are “The Hand” by Jiri Tnkra and “Punch and Judy” By Martin Maj. 

“The Hand” is a story about a small puppet being harassed by a strange giant hand, forcing him to do work he does not want to do. The puppet never speaks, not does it show any emotion through his expressions. The puppet used does not have any malleable features, meaning it can’t be manipulated to show much emotion. However, his emotions come from his actions, the simple act of re-potting his plant shows us all the information we need. A similar method is used in “Punch and Judy” Where 2 clown puppets preform in a violent slapstick show, even though they would rather not. and while the clowns have clay facial features that allow for more expressions, they still display their character through simple actions. For instance, a loving embrace is a you need to get the relationship between the two dolls. While the more expressive facial features on the clowns does give them more to play off of and react to, the simple upper in “The Hand” can still get across just as much character and emotion.

Besides the emotions, a lot can be told visually through the colors and lighting of the sets. While both animations use lots of empty dark space, “The Hand” has a very intimate use of space while “Punch and Judy” is incredibly minimal, and both choices benefit the story they are trying to tell. “The Hand” is all about the puppets personal space and his own sense of independence, and the detailed set with warm colors only added to that. The void on the outside of his home helps represent how he wants to be left alone to his devices. And the dark oppressive minimalism of set works to benefit the feeling of isolation and the loom threat of the controlling puppet-master. The way the sets are built and lighted in live action cultivates a feeling that can’t always be caught by 2D or 3D drawn animations. 

Both animations use everything to their advantage to make something more than just a silly cartoon, They tell a compelling narrative rooted in emotion and action. While one use the environment and sets to their advantage, the other uses expressions and mood to paint a setting and leave a lasting impression in all who view it.