This book takes an ecrocritical approach to analytical readings of animated feature films, short subjects and television shows. Beginning with the "simply subversive" environmental messages in the
Felix the Cat
cartoons of the 1920s, the author examines "green" themes in such popular animated film efforts as
Bambi
(1942),
The Simpsons Movie
(2007),
Wall-E
(2008) and
Happy Feet
(2008), as well as James Cameron's live action/animation blockbuster
Avatar
(2009). The discussion extends beyond American films to include the works of Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, including the Oscar-winning
Spirited Away
(2002). Also evaluated for their pro-ecological content are the television cartoon series
South Park
and
Futurama
. The appendix provides a list of film and television titles honored with the Environmental Media Award for Animation.