Maverick of Disney Animation: A Journey Through the Unconventional Life and Art of Don Bluth

The Life and Times of Ward Kimball: Maverick of Disney Animation

by Todd James Pierce

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	296 pages

FREE

Don Bluth, the legendary animator behind beloved classics like "An American Tail," "The Land Before Time," and "Anastasia," is a true maverick in the world of Disney animation. His unique style and unconventional approach to storytelling have set him apart from the mainstream, earning him a cult following among animation enthusiasts.

Bluth's journey into the world of animation began at a young age. Born in El Paso, Texas, in 1937, he developed a passion for drawing at an early age. After graduating from high school, he pursued his dream of becoming an animator by enrolling at the Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles. It was there that he met and befriended fellow animators Gary Goldman and John Pomeroy, who would later become his lifelong collaborators.

In 1955, Bluth joined the Walt Disney Company as an animator. However, he soon became disillusioned with the company's bureaucratic structure and creative limitations. In 1979, he left Disney to form his own animation studio, Don Bluth Productions. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, one that would be defined by his own unique vision and artistic style.

Bluth's early films, such as "The Secret of NIMH" (1982) and "An American Tail" (1986),were critical and commercial successes. These films showcased his signature style of animation, which was characterized by its fluid movements, realistic character designs, and emotionally resonant storytelling. Bluth's work also stood out for its willingness to tackle challenging themes, such as animal rights, immigration, and the Holocaust.

However, Bluth's relationship with Disney was not always smooth. In 1988, the two studios engaged in a bitter legal battle over the rights to the character Thumbelina. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, but it left a lasting rift between Bluth and his former employer.

Despite the setbacks, Bluth continued to produce critically acclaimed films throughout the 1990s, including "The Land Before Time" (1988),"All Dogs Go to Heaven" (1989),and "Anastasia" (1997). These films cemented his status as one of the most influential animators of his generation.

In recent years, Bluth has retired from feature film animation, but he continues to work as a consultant and mentor for young animators. He has also established the Don Bluth Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the art of traditional animation.

Don Bluth is a true pioneer in the world of animation. His unconventional approach to storytelling and his unique artistic style have left a lasting legacy on the industry. His films have touched the hearts of generations of viewers, and his work continues to inspire animators around the world.

Maverick of Disney Animation: A Journey Through the Unconventional Life and Art of Don Bluth is an engaging and insightful look at the life and work of a true legend. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in animation, art, or the creative process.

alt tags for images:

• Don Bluth at his drawing board
• A scene from "The Secret of NIMH"
• A scene from "An American Tail"
• A scene from "The Land Before Time"
• A scene from "All Dogs Go to Heaven"
• A scene from "Anastasia"

The Life and Times of Ward Kimball: Maverick of Disney Animation

by Todd James Pierce

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	296 pages

FREE