rollecreep

Rollecreep is a term used to describe a phenomenon observed in some animated productions, particularly in older or lower-budget ones. It refers to the visual artifact where a character or object appears to move slightly or "creep" forward, even when it is intended to be stationary. This effect is often noticeable during still frames or slow panning shots, where subtle, unintended movements become apparent.

The cause of rollecreep is typically a technical one related to animation production. In traditional cel animation, frames were drawn on transparent sheets called cels. If the cels were not perfectly aligned when composited for filming, or if there were minor inconsistencies in the drawing or rendering of subsequent frames, a slight drift could occur. This could be exacerbated by the physical limitations of film cameras and the digitization process.

While often unintentional, rollecreep can sometimes be a byproduct of specific animation techniques. For instance, in some cases, a very subtle, slow animation might be deliberately added to a seemingly static element to give it a sense of life or to avoid a completely frozen appearance. However, in most instances, it is considered a minor flaw in the animation.

The term itself is a portmanteau of "roll," referring to the continuous nature of film, and "creep," indicating the slow, almost imperceptible movement. It is a term primarily used within animation communities and by enthusiasts observing the technical aspects of animated media. The prevalence of digital animation has significantly reduced the occurrence of physical rollecreep, though similar subtle unintended movements can still arise from digital rendering or editing errors.