Narrative and characterization are inextricably linked. Characterization relating to animation within a narrative is explained in this chapter with practical tips to help you create and animate interesting characters to help bring your narrative to life.

After reading this chapter you should be able to:

• identify some common structures that underlie most forms of narrative

• Understand the different purposes of the pre-production stages of idea/synopsis/script/treatment /storyboard/animatic or leica reel.

• Understand movie-making terminology: camera angles and camera movement - and and how this can help you better to convey the story to your audience.

• Take an initial idea, turn it into a narrative; write a synopsis and translate that into both script and treatment.

• Create a storyboard from your script and treatment.

• Gain an insight into characterization: character design and construction, facial expression and lip synchronization.