Causes and conditions for animation-as-genre misconception: Lithuanian case

Abstract

There is a need to investigate the causes and conditions that allow for misconception that animation is a genre and not a medium to stay afloat. This paper aims to contribute to a better understanding why in 21st century this misconception is still supported by cinema theaters and, in some cases, even industry professionals. A literature review was conducted in order to identify historical causes for animation to be perceived as an art form limited to family-friendly content event in this century. Authors gathered empirical data from cinema theaters operating in Lithuania and interviewed representative of the government body in charge of national film policy. Drawing from empirical evidence, it was found that, although there is somewhat understanding among cinema theaters that practice of calling animation a genre is incorrect, however the absents of outrage from professionals or data supporting that this practice in any way harms the industry do not motivate to change existing inaccuracy.