Before digital cameras and smartphones, and even before analog photography, the zoetrope is considered to be one of the earliest pre-film devices capable of producing the illusion of motion, or animation. Zoetropes are cylindrical devices containing a sequence of pictures printed on a paper strip. The cylinder includes cuts made vertically across its sides, such that when one looks through the cuts while spinning the cylinder on its base, a rapid succession of these images in sequential order creates the intended animation effect. The faster the cylinder is spun, the smoother the animation effect appears to the eye.

The Great Zoetrope Chase takes its inspiration from this device, conjuring up a cinematic action sequence with circular motives and melodies as if being viewed through a zoetrope. Though the mood and character of this piece does dramatically change at times, its energy is relentlessly driving and tense from beginning to end.