Animatic Meaning and Definition
Animatic
Pronunciation
/ˌænɪˈmætɪk/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A preliminary version of an animated film or video, created to visualize and test the pacing, timing, and flow of the final product.
Examples
- The animation studio created an animatic to pitch their new TV series.
- The director reviewed the animatic to ensure the timing of the action scenes.
Synonyms
- Story reel
- Leica reel
Antonyms
- Final cut
- Finished product
Additional Information
An animatic is an essential step in the animation production process, allowing creators to refine their vision, identify potential issues, and make necessary changes before investing in full production. It typically consists of a series of still images or rough animations, edited together to demonstrate the pacing and flow of the final product.
In addition to its practical uses, an animatic can also serve as a valuable tool for pitching ideas, securing funding, or communicating with stakeholders.
Eymology
The term “animatic” was coined in the 1980s, derived from the words “animation” and “matic,” suggesting a machine-like or mechanical process. It has since become a widely accepted term in the animation industry.
Usage Notes
An animatic is typically used in the context of animation production, but can also be applied to other forms of storytelling, such as filmmaking or video game development.
Cultural References
The animatic process has been featured in various behind-the-scenes documentaries, books, and online resources, providing a glimpse into the creative process of renowned animation studios.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- ” Animatic test”: a phrase used to describe the process of creating and reviewing an animatic.
Related Words or Phrases
- Storyboard
- Pre-visualization
Collocations
- create an animatic
- review the animatic
Frequency of Use
The term “animatic” is commonly used in the animation industry, but may be less familiar to general audiences.
Common Misspellings
- Anamatic
- Animatik