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 …
Category: Children’s Corner
Feb 28 2024
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 …
Feb 05 2024
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 …
Jan 17 2024
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 …
Jan 13 2024
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 …
Jan 12 2024
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 …
Jan 05 2024
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 …
Dec 06 2023
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 …
Nov 29 2023
Soviet Film Wednesday: Good Night Children
This animated short was created by Russian artist Yuri Norstein, who is known for his attention to fine detail in his beautiful handmade stop-motion films which often include layers of sketches and paintings on paper and glass. It took Norstein almost two years to create this short piece. Norstein creates delicate movements, a unique sense …
Apr 30 2023
When Did The Tiki Room Open at Disneyland?
The Enchanted Tiki Room, a beloved and iconic attraction at Disneyland, first opened its doors to the public on June 23, 1963. This groundbreaking and innovative show, located in the heart of Adventureland, was the first of its kind to feature Audio-Animatronics technology, setting a new standard for themed entertainment. Walt Disney’s vision for the …