I just wanted to point out a small correction: It says "Briggs illustrated his book in pencil and crayon". He actually illustrated it in just 'pencil crayon' which is what we call coloured pencils in the UK.
It's true they did use wax crayon for the animation though, because they could achieve a similar look to coloured pencils, except it was possible to draw it on cells. (I heard this info at a talk from Lupus films at Manchester Animation Festival last year 🙂)
I love The Snowman (and also The Snowman and The Snow Dog). It just isn't Christmas without it! It is true that the animation is very old school, even by 80s standards but that's what I love about it. On a side note, I was born in 1982 so I am the same age as The Snowman :-)
Wonderful article - I was just introduced to this animated short through my partner who grew up in the UK. Hauntingly beautiful traditional work that I'm happy to say I saw in England this past Christmas with his family. Lovely background on the production of this beloved short film!
I don't think I've watched this one yet, but I do love the legacy of somewhat melancholy Christmas specials that come out of the UK, especially Robin Robin. It was fun to see the style of The Snowman referenced recently for a song in Fionna and Cake too!
Really enjoyed this article, thank you!
I just wanted to point out a small correction: It says "Briggs illustrated his book in pencil and crayon". He actually illustrated it in just 'pencil crayon' which is what we call coloured pencils in the UK.
It's true they did use wax crayon for the animation though, because they could achieve a similar look to coloured pencils, except it was possible to draw it on cells. (I heard this info at a talk from Lupus films at Manchester Animation Festival last year 🙂)
Great article! Thank you!
I love The Snowman (and also The Snowman and The Snow Dog). It just isn't Christmas without it! It is true that the animation is very old school, even by 80s standards but that's what I love about it. On a side note, I was born in 1982 so I am the same age as The Snowman :-)
Wonderful article - I was just introduced to this animated short through my partner who grew up in the UK. Hauntingly beautiful traditional work that I'm happy to say I saw in England this past Christmas with his family. Lovely background on the production of this beloved short film!
I guess I'll have to check out The Snowman. Also, The Boy and The Heron looks great!
I don't think I've watched this one yet, but I do love the legacy of somewhat melancholy Christmas specials that come out of the UK, especially Robin Robin. It was fun to see the style of The Snowman referenced recently for a song in Fionna and Cake too!