[IcewindDude]

I see mention about how Japanese animation (although I only really see this in Ghibli) has a sort of quirkyness that brings characters to life. Complex emotions as opposed to straightforward common emotions.

However, this reminds me of some older American cartoons that very much displayed such complexities, both in animation and character. There were adult themes such as death, racism, and depression. They were unfortunately overshadowed by Disney.

Anyone remember "All Dogs go to Heaven" or "An American Tail" ? They were vibrant and lively and, unfortunately, a rare piece of animation. These are works by Don Bluth. He also worked on Disney's "Lady and the Tramp" and "The Sword in the Stone." These animations had a very different feel that I am still fond of to this day... and I wasn't even old enough to appreciate them when they came out!

Also worth mentioning are the works of Tim Burton! If computer animation is relevant, I am sure his animation can be too... Nightmare Before Christmas proved to be a classic. Not exactly deep, but it certainly has mentionable qualities.

Oh, and the newest CGI animated movie I am looking forward to by Burton is a movie by the name of "9". Coming out 9/9/09. Looks very interesting.