Anthropomorphism means attributing different human traits to nonhuman entities. While it is considered as sin in some religions, it is a well-known technique used in cinema, particularly in animation.

Anthropomorphism is a well-known and oldest technique that is evident in various forms of art, especially animation. When we assign human traits, personalities, attributes, features, gestures, emotions, and looks to nonhuman entities like animals, birds, clouds, cars, etc. it is commonly known as anthropomorphism. For many centuries, writers and painters across the world are using this technique to write children's stories and to derive a connection between humans and nonhuman entities.

In Animation

Anthropomorphism is an important part of animation and we have seen successful animated characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Nemo, Simmba, etc. come out of it. The reason it is used widely is that when you attribute human-like features to animals or other nonhuman entities, it makes them more believable and lifelike. It becomes easier for people to connect with them as the emotions become the same.

Empathy for characters

The divide between rich and poor, inequality, the law of jungle, good vs evil, and several other socioeconomic themes were shown in animated films with nonhuman entities because it enabled people to draw a parallel. Also, it is observed that people feel connected to such characters because they develop empathy for these characters. Take an example of Tom & Jerry, two of the most famous cartoon characters. There are people who want small but mischievous Jerry to win against Tom because they relate more him. The same group of people also at times feels bad for Tom when he gets sick or injured.

In other art forms

Anthropomorphism is very much there in animation and other forms of entertainment, especially in movies that are made for children. The talking beavers in the chronicles of Narnia, Tom and Jerry, etc. are some of the examples of anthropomorphism and its acceptance across the world. In fact, films based on animals that talk like humans are generally liked by adults and teenagers too. Anthropomorphism is present in various art forms and not just films. Over the years, writers, poets, storytellers, actors, etc have used the concept to enhance their art.

Conclusion

Although it is a common practice nowadays, Anthropomorphism is prohibited in some religions. On the other hands, some religions depict their gods and other deities by giving them human like features. Even in films, filmmakers have shown gods amd devils by attributing certain human characteristics. Cinema is a creative medium which uses different art forms and techniques to tell a story and Anthropomorphism is one of them.