Lecture Notes: Mike's Mike - Hoodwinked Analysis

Introduction

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• Introduction to Hoodwinked
  • Mike's personal attachment to the movie.
  • Mention of cultural references and unique characteristics.

Hoodwinked Overview

• Background Info
  • Independent release, financed by the creator of Sky Vodka.
  • Classified as a children's police procedural mystery comedy.
  • Inspired by films like Pulp Fiction and Memento.
• Animation Style
  • Low budget ($8 million) led to a unique animation style, aiming for a stop-motion look.
  • Comparison to other animation styles like Disney and DreamWorks.
  • Challenges with the animation being visually unappealing.

Development and Production

• Director Corey Edwards
  • Focused on storytelling over technical animation quality.
• Casting and Voice Acting
  • Original voice cast was replaced by bigger names like Anne Hathaway and Glenn Close.
  • Limitations on the new cast's ability to improvise.
  • Criticism of sidelining voice actors for famous names.

Plot Summary

• Retelling of Little Red Riding Hood
  • Non-linear storytelling with intersecting character perspectives.
  • Humorous and engaging narrative style.

Key Points and Highlights

• Unique Animation Choices
  • Intentional "organic" look by altering colors.
  • Influence of low budget on visual quality.
• Narrative Techniques
  • Use of multiple perspectives and flashbacks.
  • Interesting storytelling techniques and pacing.

Reception and Impact

• Box Office Success
  • Grossed $110 million on an $8 million budget.
  • Sold 700,000 DVD copies in the first week.
• Controversy and Accessibility
  • Difficulty in finding the movie on streaming platforms.

Conclusion

• Mike's Personal Reflections
  • Appreciation for the film's script and story despite poor animation.
  • Emphasis on the lesson: "Never trust a bunny."

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Final Thoughts

• Main Messages
  • Lessons learned from Hoodwinked.
  • Key takeaways regarding animation and storytelling.