The concept of animation used in documentaries can be considered somewhat controversial, with some taking issue with the term “documentary” being used for recreations of true events. However, I would argue that a recreation through animation is no less a valid form of recording information than giving a verbal account by memory, or other forms of estimation of information we cannot recreate. David Attenborough is one of the most esteemed documentarists of all time- even his works have utilised animation, such as within Natural History Museum Alive. Animation should be considered another source of presenting information, no less able to promote factual accounts as spoken word.
As a separate topic, I am looking at My Life as a Courgette as a piece that discusses complex social elements such as child abuse, alcoholism, suicide, verbal and domestic abuse as well as the foster care system. My life as a courgette shows the perspective of children who, for various circumstances end up in the foster care system. This film handles these topics without being sensationalist but instead shows realistic children’s perspectives on such difficult conversations. Not only are the issues themselves covered but also where the children end up, the struggles other children might face in being left behind in the system and feelings of guilt. The claymation art style evokes the sense of innocence and fun that should be inherent in children, but the rough “imperfect” texture lends itself to the concept of people who have been through far too much. I believe my life as a courgette provides an important perspective for children and adults alike and could be used as an educational tool to provide further insight into domestic issues and the foster care system.