Nate Ragland W3 Prompt1

Winsor McCay’s Gertie the Dinosaur (1914) and Émile Cohl’s Fantasmagorie (1908) represent two early approaches to animation, each demonstrating unique stylistic and technical choices. Despite their differences, both films share foundational characteristics, such as the use of hand-drawn animation, black-and-white line work, and a focus on movement. However, their approaches to storytelling, background usage, and line quality set them apart. One of the most striking differences between the two films is the treatment of line work. Fantasmagorie employs thin, sketchy, constantly shifting lines, creating a fluid, dreamlike quality. Objects morph seamlessly from one form to another, reinforcing the film’s surreal nature. In contrast, Gertie the Dinosaur features more defined and consistent line work, particularly in the depiction of Gertie herself. The animation strives for a sense of weight and realism, evident in how Gertie moves and interacts with her environment. Background usage further distinguishes the two films. Fantasmagorie has minimal background detail, often allowing the space to shift or disappear entirely, contributing to its abstract and experimental aesthetic. In contrast, Gertie the Dinosaur maintains a stable background featuring a rocky landscape, anchoring the character’s actions in a defined space. This approach enhances the illusion that Gertie exists within a physical environment rather than floating in an undefined void.