How can animation be used to tell stories that are difficult to tell in live-action?

Animation offers unique storytelling capabilities by transcending the constraints of live action. It can depict abstract concepts, fantasy worlds, or complex narratives that may be challenging to portray realistically. Through animation, one can visualize inner emotions, surreal scenarios, or intricate visual metaphors, allowing for creative exploration and enabling storytelling beyond the confines of physical limitations or practical effects.

Despite all the noises today about big films shooting live action instead of CGI, for many or most of these films there are still many layers of Computer Graphics Imaging. And CGI is animation. They can't shoot all live action because they don't want to kill their actors, stunt actors, wreck their set or kill the film crew. It would cost too much, destroy property, need a different time period, etc. etc. It's not the answer you're looking for but they use animation because the film can't be made at scale without it.

Animation has play a big role in the industry, with animation you can tell an unimaginable story that can be somehow difficult to tell in a live-action film, CGI has impacted the industry greatly, combine live-action and computer generating image together has made the industry different, interesting and unique. they are some story that cannot be told except the use of animation. One good thing about animation is what ever you can imagine you can bring it to reality, no matter the stunt person or actor there is a limit they can play mostly when it involve technical and advance role, so that's is visual effect comes in (vfx). You can tell story of all kind and create effect with animation.

In the context of documentaries focusing on historical subjects, accessing archival visuals may not always be feasible. In such circumstances, the incorporation of animated visuals emerges as a strategic and creative solution. By integrating animated elements, filmmakers can elevate the emotive trajectory of the film, bringing historical narratives to life in a visually compelling manner. Additionally, this approach circumvents potential complications associated with political considerations related to archival footage. The use of animation provides a versatile and imaginative means to convey historical events, capturing the essence of the narrative while circumventing limitations in accessing traditional visual archives.

The choice of animated vs live action is in a big part brought down to the question of the medium. Animation should have something fantastical behind why it’s being used. That is what the medium allows for and audiences expect. Animation also allows for a series to stay frozen in time where characters can stay the same though seasons as well. Simpsons and One Piece are good examples. Both are fantastical still too.

Animation, because it's not grounded in reality, has an easier time getting the audience to suspend their disbelief. The sooner in a story you can do that, the more engaged an audience will be.

Animation serves as a powerful medium to address environmental concerns, visually depicting the impact of human actions on nature and exploring ecological themes.Vibrant animated renditions breathe new life into traditional folktales, preserving and sharing cultural heritage through visually captivating storytelling.Animated comedies create a playground for exaggerated characters, witty dialogues, and humorous situations, providing light-hearted entertainment with a creative and imaginative twist.