Essay Abstract:

Using a qualitative case study according to Rolf Ejvegård and Martin Denscombe, this essay analyzes the character Hobie Brown (Spider Punk) from the animated film Spider-man: Across the Spider-verse (2023). Aiming to answer the research question: How is the punk movement visualized in the character of Hobie Brown through his character design and animation, particularly his frame rate? For the sake of clarity, the definition of punk used in this essay is based on theory from Roger Sabin, April Errickson, Stephen Duncombe, Mathew Worley, and Mike Dines. Throughout the essay related research and commentary from the creators are used to further analyze Hobie and his animation. 

The analysis finds that Hobie Brown being animated on a different frame rate from the rest of the characters in the cast is an anomaly and can be read as a representation of punk. In addition to his animation, Hobie is also shown to be punk through his character design. These findings support Marshall McLuhan’s claim that the medium is the message, as the technical execution of Hobie’s animation is more important than his character design, in particular for this reading of the character through a punk lens.

Media Production Abstract:

An informative animated film created to be displayed in the waiting room of a dentist office. The target audiance are kids who may be nervous and want a better understanding of what is about to happen during their appointment. There is a heavy focus on accuracy and positivity in order to help calm the kids and encourage a good experaince.