ABSTRACT
UPA animated cartoons express a simplified audiovisual language consisting of stylized layout designs, asymmetrical compositions, colors applied flatly and in contrast with each other, limited animation and a minimalist use of sound effects. All these audiovisual stylistic features are masterly combined in all types of UPA productions: educational and training films, TV commercials, theatrical releases, the TV show and the animated feature film. This chapter presents selected UPA films that are examples of a simplified audiovisual language in animation: these animated cartoons are analyzed as case studies in order to see in which terms UPA was a groundbreaking studio. It is clarified how UPA productions incorporated Modern art and Modern graphic design into the animations and how this resulted in highly original audiovisual styles. This analysis defines how UPA laid the foundations for a Modern animation.
