Slow Animations (800-1200ms)
At 800-1200ms, animation approaches cinematic territory. This is deliberate, intentional motion for moments that matter. Users are expected to stop and watch.
Disney Principles at Slow Speed
Cinematic Application
Squash & Stretch: Pronounced and characterful - 25-35% deformation tells stories. Objects have weight and personality.
Anticipation: Full theatrical wind-up - 200-300ms preparation. The audience knows something is coming.
Staging: Scene composition - think in terms of camera and stage. Clear visual hierarchy with entrance order.
Straight Ahead/Pose to Pose: Pose to pose essential - 4-6 key poses for 1 second of motion.
Follow Through: Extended overlap - different elements settle at clearly different times, 200-300ms of settling.
Slow In/Slow Out: Dramatic curves - strong ease-in creates weight, strong ease-out creates impact.
Arcs: Sweeping curves - motion paths are clearly curved, visible trajectories.
Secondary Action: Complex layering - multiple levels of supporting action enhance primary motion.
Timing: 48-72 frames at 60fps. Near-film quality frame counts.
Exaggeration: Theatrical - push proportions and motion for emotional impact.
Solid Drawing: Full dimensional transforms - parallax, depth, 3D rotation.
Appeal: Emotional connection - slow motion creates intimacy with the interface.
Easing Recommendations
Best Use Cases
- App launch sequences
- Major feature reveals
- Storytelling moments
- Error recovery animations
- Achievement unlocks
- Tutorial sequences
- First-run experiences
- Section transitions in presentations
- Loading state to content reveals
Implementation Pattern
When NOT to Use
- Navigation between views (too slow)
- Repeated interactions (users get impatient)
- High-frequency actions
- Data-heavy interfaces
- Productivity tools
Key Insight
Slow animations demand attention as payment. Only use when the moment is worth the user's time. These animations create memories, not just feedback.

