What sets The Snowman apart from all other animations is its extraordinary use of pencils and crayons rather than computers. The way the cherished illustrations of Briggs' original book were transferred to the film is what gave it such a warm and intimate atmosphere, far from the polished look of many modern day animations. Much like Aardman Animations use of plasticine for Wallace & Gromit, the animation of The Snowman now seems inherently British, and it is instantly recognisable. Thankfully the makers of The Snowman and the Snowdog recognised this, and have resisted the temptation to resort to CGI. Again the magic of the characters lies in the way they are so wonderfully drawn, from the snowman's trademark grin to the snowdog's floppy sock-ears. In The Snowman, the dynamism of the illustrations was impressive, with the slight details as captivating as the sweeping shots as they flew through the winter sky. From glimpses we have had in the trailer to the sequel, it looks as though the illustration again takes centre stage, worn as a badge of honour by the makers. The original book was, in its most base form, a series of illustrations, an artwork. The film adaptation managed to capture this, and so, hopefully, will the Snowman and the Snowdog.