Movie Terms Wiki Filmmaking

Stop Motion

An animation technique that physically manipulates objects frame by frame.


Technique and Process

Stop motion involves photographing objects—puppets, clay figures or everyday items—incrementally repositioned to simulate movement. Each frame captures a slight shift, creating fluid motion when played back.

Subgenres and Materials

Claymation uses malleable figures (e.g., Wallace & Gromit), while puppet animation employs articulated armatures. Cut-out and object animation explore two-dimensional and found-object approaches.

Challenges and Aesthetics

The labor-intensive process demands meticulous planning, lighting consistency and precision. Its tactile quality and subtle imperfections impart unique charm absent in digital methods.

Landmark Works

Pioneering films include King Kong (1933), The Nightmare Before Christmas and Coraline. These illustrate stop motion’s enduring appeal and technical innovation.


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