Which animated films use handwriting to convey hidden meanings?

 There are several animated films that creatively use handwriting as a storytelling tool, often to convey hidden meanings, emotional depth, or subtle character insights. Here are a few notable examples:

1. "The Secret of Kells" (2009)

• How it uses handwriting: In this beautifully hand-drawn film, the writing and illustrations in the Book of Kells are not just part of the narrative, but also represent a connection between the real and mystical worlds. The intricate Celtic-style handwriting and symbols are used to communicate deeper themes of knowledge, religion, and protection. The written text often provides clues to the film’s hidden meanings, like the journey of the main character, Brendan.

2. "Coraline" (2009)

• How it uses handwriting: In Coraline, the protagonist comes across a handwritten letter from her real parents that is later compared to a version of the letter written by the "Other Mother." The differences in the handwriting subtly reflect the sinister nature of the Other World, hinting at the fake love and false comfort it provides, contrasted with the real world’s imperfections.

3. "The Wind Rises" (2013)

• How it uses handwriting: Hayao Miyazaki’s The Wind Rises is filled with handwritten notes, especially in the form of sketches and blueprints. These are used to convey the protagonist Jiro's passion for aviation and his creative struggles. Some of the notes also touch on the complexity of his moral dilemmas, subtly guiding the viewer’s understanding of his inner conflict.

4. "The Tale of the Princess Kaguya" (2013)

• How it uses handwriting: In The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, the animation style changes frequently, and some scenes include handwritten-like sketches. The rough and fluid nature of the drawings, especially the ones representing the protagonist’s thoughts, helps convey her internal struggle and emotional development. These hand-drawn elements add a personal, almost diary-like quality to the narrative.

5. "Persepolis" (2007)

• How it uses handwriting: This adaptation of Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel uses handwritten-style text to reflect the personal nature of the story. The use of written words, whether in the form of diary entries or conversations, adds a layer of intimacy to the narrative, underscoring the protagonist’s experiences and the political struggles she faces.

6. "A Scanner Darkly" (2006)

• How it uses handwriting: While A Scanner Darkly uses rotoscope animation rather than traditional drawing, the film features scenes with handwritten messages, letters, and graffiti that convey the chaotic, fragmented reality of the characters. The handwriting in this context often symbolizes the disconnection between the characters and their sense of identity in a surveillance-heavy society.

In all of these films, handwriting isn’t just a visual detail—it’s a tool that helps enrich the story, often providing hidden subtext or emphasizing a deeper emotional or thematic layer.