This thesis examines the characterization of blacks in contemporary British-made animated films exploring racial sterotyping and locating significant absences. Recent work produced within Britain has largely been destined for television. This thesis argues that Britain's multiculturality has not been adequately represented in popular modes of television animation. This is particularly evident in the work of Aardman, Britain's premier animation studio.

Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Brighton for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy following a programme of study with the University College for the Creative Arts at Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone and Rochester.