Category: Children’s Corner

Behind the Magic: The Life and Legacy of Animator Ken Anderson

In the world of animation, few names hold as much weight and significance as that of Ken Anderson. A brilliant mind and a creative genius, Anderson’s contributions to the realm of animation have left an impression that continues to inspire generations of animators. As one of Walt Disney’s earliest team members, Anderson was instrumental in …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Fox and Rabbit

The 1973 animation Fox and Rabbit (Лиса и заяц) was Yuri Norstein’s debut as an exclusive director. In keeping with Norstein’s most beloved animation techniques, it is made with wonderful cut-outs and has that signature Norstein earthy feel, brimming with folksy forest animals and seasonal motifs. Based on a Russian folk tale, it is the …

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Second star to the right and straight on ’til morning

“There it is, Wendy! Second star to the right and straight on ’til morning.” Peter Pan Today is the birthday of the Disney classic, Peter Pan, released February 5th, 1953. The Disney classic is an enduring and beloved work of animation that has captured the hearts of many across several generations. This enchanting adaptation of …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: The Mitten

While Rankin & Bass were celebrating wintertime with their charming 1960’s stop-motion animations for Americans, including the beloved Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Soviet animator and director Roman Kachanov was making his own adorable stop-motion films, including the celebrated Cheburashka children’s series consisting of Gena the Crocodile, Cheburashka, Shapoklyak and Cheburashka Goes to School. A prolific artist, Kachanov was also …

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Snow White Makes Its NYC Premiere in 1938

A monumental event in the history of animation and cinema occurred on December 21, 1937, when Disney’s first full-length animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, made its grand premiere at Carthay Circle Theatre in Los Angeles. Three weeks later it debuted in New York City on this day January 13, 1938. The premiere was held at …

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The Remarkable Career of Clement Hurd, Master Illustrator

The remarkable career of Clement Hurd, the master illustrator, spans over a period of several decades, marked by unforgettable contributions to the world of children’s literature. Born on this day January 12, 1908 in New York City, Hurd was not initially inclined towards illustration. He pursued his interest in architecture at Yale and later in …

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The Artistic Brilliance of Hayao Miyazaki: A Storyteller’s Legacy

Born on this day, January 5, 1941, in Tokyo, Hayao Miyazaki is a name that stands tall in the world of animation, creating a legacy that is not only unique but also deeply influential. His artistic brilliance has been the driving force behind some of the most beloved animated films of our time, each a …

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On This Day: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Premieres

For generations, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has delighted audiences with his bright red nose and heartwarming tale of acceptance. But have you ever wondered about the story behind this beloved Christmas character? Enter Rankin-Bass, the production company that brought Rudolph to life and transformed him from a misfit into an icon. Through a combination of …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: “Singing Cat” from Tale of the Fox

Here is a charming little song, “Singing Cat,” an excerpt from Ladislas Starevich’s first animated feature, and often regarded as his finest work, The Tale of the Fox (Le Roman de Renard), made with the help of his daughter Irene in 1941. Ladislas Starevich was born in Moscow on August 8, 1882 and moved to …

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Frosty’s Winter Wonderland: A Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane with Rankin & Bass

Step into a world of whimsy and nostalgia as we journey back in time to the enchanting Frosty’s Winter Wonderland. Released on this day December 2, 1976, this beloved holiday classic created by Rankin & Bass has captivated audiences of all ages and continues to warm hearts with its endearing characters and delightful story. Set …

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