Form, Movement, and Narrative in Hybrid Animation: The 2D/3D Interplay in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Abstract

This research explores how hybrid animation techniques combining 2D and 3D visual pproaches influence the storytelling elements and emotional impact in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse The research investigates how hybrid storytelling methods combine comic-book language with expressive motion and visual styles to transform traditional cinematic storytelling practices. The qualitative research design used Erwin Panofsky's three-tier iconographic method, which was adapted through a "Post Iconographic Commentary" that integrated insights from Scott McCloud, Paul Wells, and Tom Gunning. The research analyzed eleven selected scenes through frame-by-frame examination across three analytical axes, which included form and movement, and narrative function. The research shows that hybrid animation techniques function beyond visual effects to serve as meaningful tools for storytelling. The visual elements of halftones and RGB shifts, and collage textures represent identity fragmentation, yet asynchronous frame rates and smear frames and camera movement display emotional states while showing Miles Morales's developing selfawareness. The hybrid style in the film creates breaks in the plot to present symbolic moments of transformation and personal growth, and self-awareness. The thesis contains five sections, which begin with the Introduction, followed by the theoretical framework, followed by methodology, then scene-based analysis with the findings, and conclude with findings discussion. The research provides a framework for analyzing hybrid aesthetics as narrative functions, which adds value to animation studies and shows how Into the Spider-Verse transforms digital-era cinematic storytelling