For over 45 years, Aardman Animation studios have captivated audiences worldwide with their enchanting stop-motion clay animation films. From the beloved characters like Morph, Wallace and Gromit, to Shaun the Sheep and Timmy the Lamb, Aardman’s Bristol brand of British humor has become a cherished part of popular culture. Their films consistently receive critical acclaim, earning nine Oscar nominations and winning three Academy Awards, while also achieving remarkable box office success, grossing $1.1 billion globally.
Founded by Peter Lord and David Sproxton, Aardman began its journey in the early 70s, producing animated sequences for BBC’s “Vision On.” Their iconic character Morph soon gained popularity, leading to his own successful TV series. Throughout the 70s and 80s, Aardman expanded its portfolio, animating commercials, music videos, and memorable sequences for the hit song “Sledgehammer” by Peter Gabriel.
The late 80s marked a turning point for Aardman when they met animator Nick Park, who introduced them to the endearing duo, Wallace and Gromit. Park’s shorts, “Creature Comforts” and “Wallace and Gromit: A Grand Day Out,” garnered Academy Award nominations, with “Creature Comforts” winning the prestigious prize. Subsequent Wallace and Gromit shorts, “The Wrong Trousers” and “A Close Shave,” also earned Oscars.
Aardman’s collaboration with DreamWorks Animation from 1997 to 2007 resulted in groundbreaking films like “Chicken Run” and “Wallace and Gromit’s The Curse of the Were-Rabbit,” both Oscar winners. Despite venturing into computer animation with “Flushed Away,” Aardman’s commitment to stop-motion remained steadfast.
In recent years, Aardman continued to enchant audiences with films like “Arthur Christmas,” “The Pirates!,” and “Early Man,” alongside successful TV spin-offs like “Timmy Time” and “Shaun the Sheep.” Their latest venture, “Robin Robin,” marked a departure from clay animation, utilizing felted puppets for the first time.
At the heart of every Aardman film lies a meticulously crafted story, where humor and narrative take precedence over marketing and merchandise. Each frame is a testament to the creativity, passion, and patience of the animators, making Aardman Animation a true pioneer in the world of animation.
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