PART I
LEGALITY

An animated documentary is a special type of film that combines animation with documentary features, going beyond traditional documentary styles. It has three main qualities: it is made frame by frame, based on real events or topics instead of fiction, and is recognized as a documentary by creators, viewers, or critics. This style keeps the purpose of showing reality while using animation to express ideas in new ways. For example, Waltz with Bashir uses animation to show the director’s memories of the Lebanon War, mixing personal and factual perspectives to create strong emotions.

The legitimacy of animated documentaries has been debated for a long time, mainly focusing on the issue of “authenticity,” a key principle of documentaries. Traditional documentaries rely on a direct connection between images and reality, known as the “indexical relationship,” which ensures credibility. However, animation is created by artists and designers, making it an indirect and symbolic form of expression. Critics argue that this may weaken the documentary’s authenticity, as it could prevent audiences from directly engaging with the events and may be seen as subjective or artistic interpretation rather than a faithful representation of facts.

On the other hand, supporters believe that animation not only preserves but expands the possibilities of documentaries. Animation can depict things traditional filming cannot, such as inner emotions, psychological trauma, historical memories, and abstract concepts. For instance, A Is for Autism uses animation to present the subjective experiences of people with autism, offering audiences a window into their inner world. Furthermore, animation’s symbolic and creative nature can simplify and clarify complex issues, making it easier for viewers to understand the depth and meaning of the topic.

From an academic view, the legitimacy of animated documentaries can be explained with theory. John Grierson’s idea that “documentaries are the creative treatment of actuality” means documentaries are not just about copying reality but using creativity and storytelling to show deeper truths. Animation adds to traditional documentaries with its unique style, especially for topics like memory, emotions, and personal experiences. For example, Tower uses animation to show the memories of survivors of the Texas University shooting. It protects the survivors’ privacy while helping viewers understand the emotional impact of the event.

Animated documentaries also have clear advantages in sensitive situations. For example, when dealing with identity, trauma, or history, animation can protect people by hiding their identities. Its visual style also works across different cultures and languages, making these films more accessible to global audiences. For viewers, animated documentaries provide a deep and immersive experience, showing not just events but also emotions and feelings.

Although the innovative format of animated documentaries is widely recognized, its legitimacy remains a topic of debate. Some critics argue that the symbolic nature of animation can lead to over-interpretation or emotional bias, which might blur the factual boundaries of documentaries. On the other hand, this format offers a powerful tool for exploring complex or hard-to-visualize topics. For example, Ryan uses animation to depict the life of artist Ryan Larkin, visualizing his inner world, mental state, and creative inspiration. This showcases the unique strength of animated documentaries in combining artistic expression with storytelling.

Animated documentaries are a unique medium that combines artistry and authenticity, with great potential for future development. Although some debates remain among scholars and audiences, the innovative value of animated documentaries in exploring reality and expanding forms of expression is undeniable. This format allows documentaries to go beyond traditional filming techniques, opening new ways to understand reality. It serves as both a reflection on the past and an exploration of the future possibilities of documentaries. As animated documentaries are increasingly used to address social issues and for artistic creation, their legitimacy may no longer be a point of contention but instead become an essential part of the documentary field.

PART II
RESEARCH

Persepolis

Persepolis (2007) is an animated documentary based on Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel of the same name. It is an autobiographical story told from the main character’s point of view. The film shows the social unrest during the Iranian Revolution and the unfair treatment and oppression of women. It explores issues of gender equality and women’s growth.

Animation is used to show how women were oppressed under strict rules, focusing on gender inequality and loss of freedom. The black veil in the film symbolizes the struggles of women. The simple visuals help explain the complex history and emotions, making it easier for viewers to understand. The story also shows the character’s struggles with cultural differences between the East and the West. Animation adds emotional depth and makes the story more powerful. This film reflects big social issues through a personal story and pushes beyond traditional documentary styles, showing how animated documentaries can explore important topics in a unique way.

Reference

• Grierson, J. (1933) Documentary and the creative treatment of actuality. First presented in 1933, this concept has been foundational in documentary theory.
• Satrapi, M. (2000) Persepolis. Pantheon Graphic Library.
• Folman, A. (2008) Waltz with Bashir. [Film] Sony Pictures Classics.
• Webb, T. (1992) A Is for Autism. [Film] Channel 4 Television Corporation.
• Maitland, K. (2016) Tower. [Film] Kino Lorber.
• Landreth, C. (2004) Ryan. [Film] Copper Heart Entertainment.
• Satrapi, M. and Paronnaud, V. (2007) Persepolis. [Film] Sony Pictures Classics.