Meaning: Ralph Bakshi, a renowned director and animator, once made a thought-provoking statement about the difference between live action and animation. The quote, "Live action writers will give you a structure, but who the hell is talking about structure? Animation is closer to jazz than some kind of classical stage structure," sheds light on the unique nature of animation as a form of storytelling and artistic expression. In this quote, Bakshi emphasizes the freedom and spontaneity that animation offers, likening it to the improvisational and dynamic nature of jazz music.

When Bakshi mentions that live action writers provide structure, he is referring to the traditional process of crafting a screenplay or script for live action films. In live action filmmaking, writers often adhere to established storytelling conventions and structures to create a cohesive narrative that translates well to the screen. This structured approach is necessary for live action productions due to the constraints of working with real actors, sets, and locations.

On the other hand, Bakshi argues that animation is not bound by the same constraints as live action. The freedom and flexibility inherent in animation allow for a more spontaneous and fluid creative process. Unlike live action, where the physical limitations of the real world must be considered, animation offers boundless opportunities for imaginative storytelling and visual expression. This creative liberty enables animators to deviate from traditional narrative structures and experiment with unconventional storytelling techniques.

Bakshi's comparison of animation to jazz is particularly illuminating. Jazz music is characterized by its improvisational nature, with musicians often engaging in spontaneous and collaborative performances that defy rigid musical compositions. Similarly, animation allows for a similar level of improvisation and artistic expression, where creators can continually shape and refine their work throughout the production process. This organic and fluid approach to storytelling sets animation apart from the more structured and predetermined nature of live action filmmaking.

Furthermore, Bakshi's reference to "classical stage structure" alludes to the traditional framework of storytelling found in theater and classical literature. In these forms, there are often established rules and conventions that dictate the progression of the narrative, character development, and dramatic arcs. By contrasting animation with this classical structure, Bakshi highlights the avant-garde and boundary-pushing potential of animation as a medium for storytelling.

In essence, Bakshi's quote underscores the distinct artistic qualities of animation, emphasizing its affinity with improvisation, experimentation, and creative freedom. While live action may rely on predetermined structures to guide the storytelling process, animation thrives on the spontaneity and elasticity that allow creators to craft narratives akin to the improvisational and dynamic nature of jazz music. This perspective offers a compelling insight into the world of animation and its capacity for innovation and artistic expression.