Pixar, the big boss of animated movies, used to be the king of creativity and storytelling. But lately, people have been whispering about Pixar losing its touch. Once ruling the roost, Pixar now faces the harsh reality of slipping into irrelevance. Now, they’re pinning their hopes on Inside Out 2 it’s going to be make-or-break time for Pixar. Will this sequel be their golden ticket back to the top, or will it be the final nail in the coffin?
A still featuring the characters from Inside Out 2 | Pixar
With everyone on the edge of their seats waiting for the sequel, Pixar’s sweating bullets. They’re stuck between meeting sky-high expectations and the need to shake things up. In a world where sequels rule the roost, Inside Out 2 isn’t just another movie. It’s Pixar’s big gamble to reclaim its throne as the king of animated storytelling.
A still featuring the characters from Inside Out 2 | Pixar
With everyone on the edge of their seats waiting for the sequel, Pixar’s sweating bullets. They’re stuck between meeting sky-high expectations and the need to shake things up. In a world where sequels rule the roost, Inside Out 2 isn’t just another movie. It’s Pixar’s big gamble to reclaim its throne as the king of animated storytelling.
- 6/4/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
Pixar isn’t pulling any punches when its new film, Inside Out 2, comes to cinemas on June 14. At a time when films come to digital and streaming services alarmingly fast, Pixar says Inside Out 2 will get an extended theatrical run in favor of being rushed to Disney+ shortly after release.
Speaking with Bloomberg, Pixar president Jim Morris says Inside Out 2 is playing in theaters for at least 100 days. “I hope that we will not release another feature film on Disney+,” Morris explained. “If we do more stuff for Disney+, it should be a series, and then that makes a clean demarcation between what we do for theaters and what we do for streaming.”
Pixar found varying success with several of its most recent films, including Soul, Luca, Turning Red, Lightyear, and Elemental. The studio’s biggest releases underperformed theatrically, mostly due to the pandemic, except Elemental, which...
Speaking with Bloomberg, Pixar president Jim Morris says Inside Out 2 is playing in theaters for at least 100 days. “I hope that we will not release another feature film on Disney+,” Morris explained. “If we do more stuff for Disney+, it should be a series, and then that makes a clean demarcation between what we do for theaters and what we do for streaming.”
Pixar found varying success with several of its most recent films, including Soul, Luca, Turning Red, Lightyear, and Elemental. The studio’s biggest releases underperformed theatrically, mostly due to the pandemic, except Elemental, which...
- 6/3/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
The globally celebrated icon who spawned the gargantuan Star Wars franchise has always been hailed as a visionary of the utmost eminence, and his work attests to the same. But even a filmmaker as established as George Lucas was pilloried for the infamous Star Wars Prequel trilogy which became a mere laughing stock for the public.
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002) (Credit: Lucasfilm)
But if there’s one decision that Lucas has made that perhaps rivals his dreadful Star Wars Prequel idea, it would be his selfish dealings with Pixar.
A Glance at the History of Pixar Animation Studios
The studio recognized for hatching movies after magnificent animated movies like Toy Story and The Incredibles, first started as a part of the Lucasfilm Computer Division called Graphis Group back in 1979. Before they found Pixar Animation Studios, Ed Catmull and Alvy Ray Smith were recruited by Lucasfilm...
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002) (Credit: Lucasfilm)
But if there’s one decision that Lucas has made that perhaps rivals his dreadful Star Wars Prequel idea, it would be his selfish dealings with Pixar.
A Glance at the History of Pixar Animation Studios
The studio recognized for hatching movies after magnificent animated movies like Toy Story and The Incredibles, first started as a part of the Lucasfilm Computer Division called Graphis Group back in 1979. Before they found Pixar Animation Studios, Ed Catmull and Alvy Ray Smith were recruited by Lucasfilm...
- 6/3/2024
- by Khushi Shah
- FandomWire
Disney seems to be in the mood to bring back their audiences to the cinema. Their next animated film from Pixar Inside Out 2 is reportedly all set to have an exclusive 100-day theatrical window before it debuts on streaming. The president of Pixar recently mentioned that the company wants to re-train audiences from expecting the films at home sooner.
This would be the highest theatrical window for Pixar in the recent past as their post-pandemic releases Lightyear and Elemental had shorter windows. The animation studio released three of their most anticipated films on Disney Plus during the pandemic, which they reportedly hope to move away from.
Disney Confirms A 100-Day Theatrical Window For Inside Out 2 A still from Inside Out 2 | Credits: Pixar Animation Studios
Almost a decade after the successful original, Disney is all set to release Pixar’s Inside Out 2 on June 14. The film sees...
This would be the highest theatrical window for Pixar in the recent past as their post-pandemic releases Lightyear and Elemental had shorter windows. The animation studio released three of their most anticipated films on Disney Plus during the pandemic, which they reportedly hope to move away from.
Disney Confirms A 100-Day Theatrical Window For Inside Out 2 A still from Inside Out 2 | Credits: Pixar Animation Studios
Almost a decade after the successful original, Disney is all set to release Pixar’s Inside Out 2 on June 14. The film sees...
- 6/3/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Pixar’s focus is now on two words: “IP” and “Franchise.” The company that was once known for new and creative ideas is now finding ways to make more IP sequels or come up with “franchise seeds,” according to Pixar’s president, Jim Morris.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Morris discussed Pixar’s new focus of making three new films every two years instead of one film a year. Those three films will have two sequels or spinoffs and only one new concept that will be used as “potential seeds for new franchises.”
It isn’t about creating ideas that are just good films anymore. It’s about franchising everything for Disney.
Pixar did incredibly well for years, and then when John Lasseter left, it seemed to nosedive.
While some of their newer films aren’t as good as older ones, they still aren’t terrible. “Turning Red,” “Luca,” and...
In an interview with Bloomberg, Morris discussed Pixar’s new focus of making three new films every two years instead of one film a year. Those three films will have two sequels or spinoffs and only one new concept that will be used as “potential seeds for new franchises.”
It isn’t about creating ideas that are just good films anymore. It’s about franchising everything for Disney.
Pixar did incredibly well for years, and then when John Lasseter left, it seemed to nosedive.
While some of their newer films aren’t as good as older ones, they still aren’t terrible. “Turning Red,” “Luca,” and...
- 6/2/2024
- by Kambrea Pratt
- Pirates & Princesses
Similar to Marvel Studios, it's been a tough few years for Pixar. The studio's movies were sent straight to Disney+ during the pandemic and a couple of box office flops have tarnished the brand to a point where they're now in the process of rebuilding their reputation.
In a new Bloomberg report (via Toonado.com), more is revealed about how the studio is finally pivoting away from streaming to focus its efforts on theatrical titles. However, we're still getting at least one more TV show: Dream Productions is "set in the Inside Out universe of Riley's dreams" and expected to premiere in 2025.
The hope is that Inside Out 2 will be a hit and it won't be the last sequel we see from Pixar in the coming years. According to the report, "every hit of yesterday is being considered for a reboot, with Finding Nemo and The Incredibles regarded as...
In a new Bloomberg report (via Toonado.com), more is revealed about how the studio is finally pivoting away from streaming to focus its efforts on theatrical titles. However, we're still getting at least one more TV show: Dream Productions is "set in the Inside Out universe of Riley's dreams" and expected to premiere in 2025.
The hope is that Inside Out 2 will be a hit and it won't be the last sequel we see from Pixar in the coming years. According to the report, "every hit of yesterday is being considered for a reboot, with Finding Nemo and The Incredibles regarded as...
- 5/31/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
How quickly times change. There once was an era when Pixar didn’t think it needed sequels and could just go from original story to original story. In fact, in 2016, Pixar’s president Jim Morris said there were no Pixar sequel plans after Brad Bird’s “The Incredibles 2,” something of a response to the underwhelming reception to “Cars 2” and, to a lesser degree, “Toy Story 3.
Continue reading Pixar Considering Reboots For All Its Titles Including ‘The Incredibles’ & ‘Finding Nemo’ at The Playlist.
Continue reading Pixar Considering Reboots For All Its Titles Including ‘The Incredibles’ & ‘Finding Nemo’ at The Playlist.
- 5/30/2024
- by The Playlist
- The Playlist
Pixar is currently getting backlash from fans after reports of planning to reboot beloved animated films. The animation studio reportedly wants to balance the number of sequels and spinoffs to remind fans of movies they once loved.
Pixar Animation Studios / Walt Disney Studios
The decision, which is yet to be confirmed, has caused an uproar from fans who either didn’t want their favorite animated films to be rebooted or would rather go for a sequel.
Pixar Is Reportedly Planning to Reboot Finding Nemo and The Incredibles
In a report from Bloomberg Businessweek, Pixar President Jim Morris announced that Pixar Studios is mulling over the plan of rebooting old animated movies.
Every hit of yesteryear is being considered for a reboot, with Finding Nemo and The Incredibles regarded as particularly strong candidates for new titles.
This has come as a shock to many fans as Finding Nemo and The Incredibles...
Pixar Animation Studios / Walt Disney Studios
The decision, which is yet to be confirmed, has caused an uproar from fans who either didn’t want their favorite animated films to be rebooted or would rather go for a sequel.
Pixar Is Reportedly Planning to Reboot Finding Nemo and The Incredibles
In a report from Bloomberg Businessweek, Pixar President Jim Morris announced that Pixar Studios is mulling over the plan of rebooting old animated movies.
Every hit of yesteryear is being considered for a reboot, with Finding Nemo and The Incredibles regarded as particularly strong candidates for new titles.
This has come as a shock to many fans as Finding Nemo and The Incredibles...
- 5/30/2024
- by Ariane Cruz
- FandomWire
Pixar was hit with layoffs on Tuesday as approximately 175 employees, or 14% of its workforce, were let go. In a note to staff, Pixar president Jim Morris said that individuals who have been impacted by the layoffs would be notified on Tuesday. Calendar invites to speak with a leader have already gone out to those individuals, and we anticipate we will have connected with everyone impacted by the end of the day, he wrote. The recent cuts come as part of Disney’s company-wide cost-cutting measures. As reported, Disney aims to achieve $5.5 billion in cost savings through about 7,000
The post Disney Cuts 14% of Pixar Workforce in Broad Cost-Saving Effort first appeared on TVovermind.
The post Disney Cuts 14% of Pixar Workforce in Broad Cost-Saving Effort first appeared on TVovermind.
- 5/23/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
Disney is culling some of its Pixar staff. The layoffs have been looming since January, as Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, wants to cut spending and return to quality over quantity. Now, 14% of Pixar’s staff, or about 150 people, will be let go.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Pixar was mostly spared from the Disney purge last year, during which thousands of jobs were cut, mostly in entertainment. Now that projects have finished, Disney is making cuts.
Recent Pixar films have not performed well, except “Elemental.” While a few films like “Luca” and “Turning Red” were released on the DIsney+ streaming service due to the pandemic, “Lightyear” was given the full theatrical treatment, and it bombed, losing an estimated $106 million.
When the pandemic started in 2020, Pixar films, starting with “Soul,” were only released on Disney+. Even when theaters were reopening, Disney still chose to put Pixar releases on the streaming service.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Pixar was mostly spared from the Disney purge last year, during which thousands of jobs were cut, mostly in entertainment. Now that projects have finished, Disney is making cuts.
Recent Pixar films have not performed well, except “Elemental.” While a few films like “Luca” and “Turning Red” were released on the DIsney+ streaming service due to the pandemic, “Lightyear” was given the full theatrical treatment, and it bombed, losing an estimated $106 million.
When the pandemic started in 2020, Pixar films, starting with “Soul,” were only released on Disney+. Even when theaters were reopening, Disney still chose to put Pixar releases on the streaming service.
- 5/21/2024
- by Kambrea Pratt
- Pirates & Princesses
Pixar was hit with layoffs on Tuesday as approximately 175 employees, or 14% of its workforce, were let go.
In a note to staff, Pixar president Jim Morris said that individuals who have been impacted by the layoffs will be notified on Tuesday. “Calendar invites to speak with a leader have already gone out to those individuals, and we anticipate we will have connected with everyone impacted by the end of the day,” he wrote.
Pixar employees have been bracing for layoffs since January, but cuts were smaller than the speculated 20% reduction that was reported at the time.
Once considered the gold standard of family films, Pixar has been struggling since the pandemic when its corporate overlords at Disney used the pedigree of the animation brand to prop up its new streaming service. During that period, new offerings “Soul,” “Luca” and “Turning Red” were sent directly to Disney+ and family audiences became...
In a note to staff, Pixar president Jim Morris said that individuals who have been impacted by the layoffs will be notified on Tuesday. “Calendar invites to speak with a leader have already gone out to those individuals, and we anticipate we will have connected with everyone impacted by the end of the day,” he wrote.
Pixar employees have been bracing for layoffs since January, but cuts were smaller than the speculated 20% reduction that was reported at the time.
Once considered the gold standard of family films, Pixar has been struggling since the pandemic when its corporate overlords at Disney used the pedigree of the animation brand to prop up its new streaming service. During that period, new offerings “Soul,” “Luca” and “Turning Red” were sent directly to Disney+ and family audiences became...
- 5/21/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
The long-expected layoffs at Pixar Animation Studios have begun.
Today, leadership at the storied company that traces it origins to the late Steve Jobs and was bought by Disney in 2006 will notify employees of the reductions, The Hollywood Reporter has learned. It is the biggest restructuring in Pixar’s history, although top leadership isn’t impacted.
Approximately 14 percent of Pixar’s workforce, or around 175 employees, will be let go. Before the reductions, approximately 1,300 people worked at the animation studio.
The layoffs are part of Disney chief Bob Iger’s overarching mandate to return to a focus on quality, versus churning out content for streaming which was a priority for his sort-lived successor, Bob Chapek. Disney execs have talked about returning to a focus on quality during numerous earnings calls this year, saying creative teams across the company were stretched too thin in the arms race to feed streamers.
Pixar employees...
Today, leadership at the storied company that traces it origins to the late Steve Jobs and was bought by Disney in 2006 will notify employees of the reductions, The Hollywood Reporter has learned. It is the biggest restructuring in Pixar’s history, although top leadership isn’t impacted.
Approximately 14 percent of Pixar’s workforce, or around 175 employees, will be let go. Before the reductions, approximately 1,300 people worked at the animation studio.
The layoffs are part of Disney chief Bob Iger’s overarching mandate to return to a focus on quality, versus churning out content for streaming which was a priority for his sort-lived successor, Bob Chapek. Disney execs have talked about returning to a focus on quality during numerous earnings calls this year, saying creative teams across the company were stretched too thin in the arms race to feed streamers.
Pixar employees...
- 5/21/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Can “Mean Girls” make fetch happen at the box office?
Paramount’s new take on the teen classic is aiming to generate $30 million from 3,800 North American theaters over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. The studio is projecting a debut in the high $20 million range, while independent tracking services estimate a start closer to $35 million. Those ticket sales would, indeed, be fetch because “Mean Girls” cost just $36 million to produce. It was originally commissioned to stream on Paramount+, but executives opted to release the film theatrically after audiences responded enthusiastically during test screenings.
The Plastics 2.0 won’t be the only newcomers to keep movie theaters bustling over the holiday frame. Amazon MGM’s “The Beekeeper,” an action thriller directed by David Ayer and starring Jason Statham, is expected to score a solid $17 million to $19 million over the four days. Another new release, Sony’s biblical comedic drama “The Book of Clarence,...
Paramount’s new take on the teen classic is aiming to generate $30 million from 3,800 North American theaters over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. The studio is projecting a debut in the high $20 million range, while independent tracking services estimate a start closer to $35 million. Those ticket sales would, indeed, be fetch because “Mean Girls” cost just $36 million to produce. It was originally commissioned to stream on Paramount+, but executives opted to release the film theatrically after audiences responded enthusiastically during test screenings.
The Plastics 2.0 won’t be the only newcomers to keep movie theaters bustling over the holiday frame. Amazon MGM’s “The Beekeeper,” an action thriller directed by David Ayer and starring Jason Statham, is expected to score a solid $17 million to $19 million over the four days. Another new release, Sony’s biblical comedic drama “The Book of Clarence,...
- 1/10/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
The Disney and Pixar film “Elemental” had a strong start on Disney+, with the film pulling in 26.4 million views in its first five days of streaming availability.
Per Disney, that makes “Elemental” the most-watched movie premiere of the year on the service and among the top 10 movie premieres they have ever had. For context, Disney defines a view as total stream time divided by runtime, just like Netflix recently started doing. The film became available on Disney+ on Sept. 13. Disney also says “Elemental” has become the most viewed animated movie premiere since Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red” was released in March 2022, as well as the most-viewed Disney+ movie premiere of all time in Latin America, just ahead of “Turning Red.”
By comparison, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” debuted with 1.625 billion minutes viewed in its first five days of availability on Disney+, which translates to approximately 10.8 million views.
The...
Per Disney, that makes “Elemental” the most-watched movie premiere of the year on the service and among the top 10 movie premieres they have ever had. For context, Disney defines a view as total stream time divided by runtime, just like Netflix recently started doing. The film became available on Disney+ on Sept. 13. Disney also says “Elemental” has become the most viewed animated movie premiere since Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red” was released in March 2022, as well as the most-viewed Disney+ movie premiere of all time in Latin America, just ahead of “Turning Red.”
By comparison, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” debuted with 1.625 billion minutes viewed in its first five days of availability on Disney+, which translates to approximately 10.8 million views.
The...
- 9/18/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The elements are finally coming together for Pixar’s “Elemental,” which is enjoying a rebound after a spark-less start at the box office.
The animation adventure stumbled in its debut with $29.5 million domestically and $44.5 million globally, by far the worst opening weekend in Pixar’s 28-year history. Yet two months later, its ticket sales have slowly and steadily climbed to $148 million in North America and $425 million worldwide. That’s nearly five times its initial ticket sales, a rare multiple for an original film. Set in a world inhabited by anthropomorphic elements of nature, the Peter Sohn-directed “Elemental” revolves around two fire and water elements who discover they have more in common than meets the eye.
“Elemental” cost $200 million before marketing — which included a lavish trip to the Cannes Film Festival for its global premiere — so even though audiences kept showing up after opening weekend, the family friendly movie has...
The animation adventure stumbled in its debut with $29.5 million domestically and $44.5 million globally, by far the worst opening weekend in Pixar’s 28-year history. Yet two months later, its ticket sales have slowly and steadily climbed to $148 million in North America and $425 million worldwide. That’s nearly five times its initial ticket sales, a rare multiple for an original film. Set in a world inhabited by anthropomorphic elements of nature, the Peter Sohn-directed “Elemental” revolves around two fire and water elements who discover they have more in common than meets the eye.
“Elemental” cost $200 million before marketing — which included a lavish trip to the Cannes Film Festival for its global premiere — so even though audiences kept showing up after opening weekend, the family friendly movie has...
- 8/9/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Pixar’s latest film Elemental, exploring a city where fire, water, land and air residents live together as a romance blossoms between fiery young woman Ember and water guy Wade, represents much more than a fictional story to several of its cast and creators.
Alongside the romance at the center of the story is the journey of a fire family, the parents of which emigrated from their native fire land to start a better life for their daughter in Element City. It was one of the film’s leading themes, says its director.
“The guiding light that got me through all of this was just this idea of appreciating the people in our lives that sacrificed something and risked,” Peter Sohn told The Hollywood Reporter at the film’s Los Angeles premiere on Thursday. “For me, those people are my parents. They were immigrants from another world, and they came...
Alongside the romance at the center of the story is the journey of a fire family, the parents of which emigrated from their native fire land to start a better life for their daughter in Element City. It was one of the film’s leading themes, says its director.
“The guiding light that got me through all of this was just this idea of appreciating the people in our lives that sacrificed something and risked,” Peter Sohn told The Hollywood Reporter at the film’s Los Angeles premiere on Thursday. “For me, those people are my parents. They were immigrants from another world, and they came...
- 6/9/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Are you a sports fan looking for some inspiration? Disney+ is now streaming some of the best true stories found in American sports movies. If you’re a fan of sports, then you’ll love these films. They are packed with exciting moments and thrilling storylines. Here are 10 must-watch sports movies streaming on Disney Plus now.
#10. “Secretariat” (2010)
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10 | Metascore: 61 | CinemaScore: A
“Secretariat” is based on the story of Penny Chenery Tweedy (Diane Lane), who owned Secretariat, one of the greatest racehorses in history. The film follows Secretariat’s rise to fame and his legendary Triple Crown win in 1973.
One of the most iconic moments of the film is Secretariat’s record-breaking victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, where he won by an incredible 31 lengths, setting a new world record that still holds today. This historic win solidified Secretariat’s place in horse racing history and earned him the nickname “Big Red.
#10. “Secretariat” (2010)
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10 | Metascore: 61 | CinemaScore: A
“Secretariat” is based on the story of Penny Chenery Tweedy (Diane Lane), who owned Secretariat, one of the greatest racehorses in history. The film follows Secretariat’s rise to fame and his legendary Triple Crown win in 1973.
One of the most iconic moments of the film is Secretariat’s record-breaking victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, where he won by an incredible 31 lengths, setting a new world record that still holds today. This historic win solidified Secretariat’s place in horse racing history and earned him the nickname “Big Red.
- 3/6/2023
- by Buddy TV
- buddytv.com
‘Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio’ Wins Five Trophies Including the Top Prize at the 50th Annie Awards
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio topped the 50th Annie Awards for animation, collecting five prizes including best animation feature, direction (del Toro and Mark Gustafson), character animation, music and production design.
“Fuck,” said del Toro as he and Gustafson took the stage to accept the directing award. “I hope to stay with you as peers with this beautiful, beautiful craft we have.” He noted that he’s been directing for 30 years and “the most creative ideas-filled group I worked with is animation.” Del Toro added his hope is that the community pushes the medium for future generations and “change the way we are perceived as a medium, not for us, but for the people coming up.” He got laughs and cheers as he wrapped by exclaiming, “Can I say, I wanted an Annie so much!”
Also Saturday at UCLA’s Royce Hall, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On won three awards,...
“Fuck,” said del Toro as he and Gustafson took the stage to accept the directing award. “I hope to stay with you as peers with this beautiful, beautiful craft we have.” He noted that he’s been directing for 30 years and “the most creative ideas-filled group I worked with is animation.” Del Toro added his hope is that the community pushes the medium for future generations and “change the way we are perceived as a medium, not for us, but for the people coming up.” He got laughs and cheers as he wrapped by exclaiming, “Can I say, I wanted an Annie so much!”
Also Saturday at UCLA’s Royce Hall, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On won three awards,...
- 2/26/2023
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Avatar: The Way of Water” topped the 21st Annual Ves Awards with nine wins, including for photoreal feature.
Meanwhile, Guillermo del Toro’s “Pinocchio” was named best animated feature and took home three awards total. On the TV side, Amazon’s “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” won three awards and was named best photoreal episode.
Rian Johnson, Domee Shi, Tig Notaro, Jay Pharoah, Tyler Posey and Randall Park were among the presenters for the night. James Cameron presented the Ves Lifetime Achievement award to acclaimed producer Gale Anne Hurd.
Former Ves executive director Eric Roth received the Board of Directors Award from the current board, which includes Lisa Cooke, current Ves Chair; Jim Morris, Ves, president of Pixar Animation and founding Ves Chair; and former Chairs Jeffrey A. Okun, Ves; Mike Chambers, Ves; Carl Rosendahl, Ves; and Jeff Barnes.
“As we celebrate the 21st Annual Ves Awards,...
Meanwhile, Guillermo del Toro’s “Pinocchio” was named best animated feature and took home three awards total. On the TV side, Amazon’s “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” won three awards and was named best photoreal episode.
Rian Johnson, Domee Shi, Tig Notaro, Jay Pharoah, Tyler Posey and Randall Park were among the presenters for the night. James Cameron presented the Ves Lifetime Achievement award to acclaimed producer Gale Anne Hurd.
Former Ves executive director Eric Roth received the Board of Directors Award from the current board, which includes Lisa Cooke, current Ves Chair; Jim Morris, Ves, president of Pixar Animation and founding Ves Chair; and former Chairs Jeffrey A. Okun, Ves; Mike Chambers, Ves; Carl Rosendahl, Ves; and Jeff Barnes.
“As we celebrate the 21st Annual Ves Awards,...
- 2/16/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Pixar’s save-the-world eco-epic actually begins with the world destroyed, before a pair of cute robots help put it back together again. Andrew Stanton’s animated comedy finds hope and cheer in a post-apocalyptic scenario, a tall order for any speculative science fiction tale. Meet Wall•E, the nuts ‘n’ bolts super-janitor, and Eve, the sleek next-generation seeker of terrestrial plant re-birth. Good satire and social criticism comes in the brightest package possible in this endearing charmer.
Wall•E 4K
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 1161
2008 / Color / 2:39 widescreen / 98 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date November 22, 2022 / 39.95
Starring: (voices) Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin, MacInTalk, John Ratzenberger, Kathy Najimy, Sigourney Weaver, (and) Fred Willard.
Production Designer: Ralph Eggleston
Film Editor: Stephen Schaffer
Original Music: Thomas Newman
Written by Andrew Stanton, Jim Reardon, Pete Docter
Produced by Jim Morris
Directed by Andrew Stanton
Pixar was on a terrific...
Wall•E 4K
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 1161
2008 / Color / 2:39 widescreen / 98 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date November 22, 2022 / 39.95
Starring: (voices) Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin, MacInTalk, John Ratzenberger, Kathy Najimy, Sigourney Weaver, (and) Fred Willard.
Production Designer: Ralph Eggleston
Film Editor: Stephen Schaffer
Original Music: Thomas Newman
Written by Andrew Stanton, Jim Reardon, Pete Docter
Produced by Jim Morris
Directed by Andrew Stanton
Pixar was on a terrific...
- 11/8/2022
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
VFX educator Pam Hogarth and Pixar’s Pete Docter were among the honorees at this year’s Visual Effects Society Honors Celebration.
The in-person ceremony took place on Oct. 14 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, Calif., where Ves members celebrated their colleagues’ achievements and the organization’s 25th anniversary.
Docter, Pixar’s chief creative officer best known for directing “Monsters, Inc.,” “Up,” “Inside Out” and “Soul,” received this year’s Honorary Membership.
“It’s been a dream of mine to join Ves without having to pay,” Docter said jokingly in his acceptance speech. “I had one overriding obsession: to sell insurance. But instead, I got a job in animation … To everyone at Pixar, who would’ve dreamt that someday I would be lucky enough to work alongside hundreds of amazingly talented people using the latest cutting-edge technology — all to avoid dealing with real life.”
Docter also acknowledged Pixar president Jim Morris,...
The in-person ceremony took place on Oct. 14 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, Calif., where Ves members celebrated their colleagues’ achievements and the organization’s 25th anniversary.
Docter, Pixar’s chief creative officer best known for directing “Monsters, Inc.,” “Up,” “Inside Out” and “Soul,” received this year’s Honorary Membership.
“It’s been a dream of mine to join Ves without having to pay,” Docter said jokingly in his acceptance speech. “I had one overriding obsession: to sell insurance. But instead, I got a job in animation … To everyone at Pixar, who would’ve dreamt that someday I would be lucky enough to work alongside hundreds of amazingly talented people using the latest cutting-edge technology — all to avoid dealing with real life.”
Docter also acknowledged Pixar president Jim Morris,...
- 10/18/2022
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
As the Visual Effects Society marks the occasion of its 25th anniversary, the annual Ves Honors ceremony on Friday included celebration along with a call for more diversity and inclusion, as well as a greater effort to achieve a work-life balance amid industry-wide attention on the long work hours kept by many VFX artists under current business models.
Friday evening at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, honorees included three-time Oscar winner and Pixar chief creative officer Pete Docter and VFX vet and educator Pam Hogarth.
Hogarth received the Ves Founders Award as well as life Ves membership, and sent a message of community while urging more work toward diversity and inclusion. “The reason we are here is for the community,” she said. “We do this because we love the people around us and the Society. We are so lucky to work with smart,...
As the Visual Effects Society marks the occasion of its 25th anniversary, the annual Ves Honors ceremony on Friday included celebration along with a call for more diversity and inclusion, as well as a greater effort to achieve a work-life balance amid industry-wide attention on the long work hours kept by many VFX artists under current business models.
Friday evening at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, honorees included three-time Oscar winner and Pixar chief creative officer Pete Docter and VFX vet and educator Pam Hogarth.
Hogarth received the Ves Founders Award as well as life Ves membership, and sent a message of community while urging more work toward diversity and inclusion. “The reason we are here is for the community,” she said. “We do this because we love the people around us and the Society. We are so lucky to work with smart,...
- 10/15/2022
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
That noise you hear is the sound of Fear panicking. Or maybe it's Joy jumping up and down with glee? It could be Disgust turning her nose up as she utters, "Ugh, this better not be another 'Cars 2.'" Or maybe it's Anger yelling, "Why mess with a classic?!" It might even be Sadness quietly muttering, "Everybody knows the 'Toy Story' sequels are the only really great Pixar sequels." Honestly, it's probably all of these things at the same time.
Released in 2015, "Inside Out" takes place in the mind of Riley (voiced by Kaitlyn Dias), an 11-year-old girl whose life is upended when her family moves from Minnesota to San Francisco. Riley and the five personified emotions that oversee her thoughts and feelings are forced to navigate the many challenges that come with such a huge move. Like any other Pixar film, it's a visual feast full of lovely,...
Released in 2015, "Inside Out" takes place in the mind of Riley (voiced by Kaitlyn Dias), an 11-year-old girl whose life is upended when her family moves from Minnesota to San Francisco. Riley and the five personified emotions that oversee her thoughts and feelings are forced to navigate the many challenges that come with such a huge move. Like any other Pixar film, it's a visual feast full of lovely,...
- 9/10/2022
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Hot off the success of her feature debut “Turning Red,” Pixar director Domee Shi has been promoted to a key leadership role alongside the film’s producer, Lindsey Collins.
Shi has been named a creative vice president at Pixar, joining a creative leadership team that also includes chief creative officer Pete Docter, “Finding Nemo” director Andrew Stanton, “Onward” director Dan Scanlon and “The Good Dinosaur” director Peter Sohn. The team of creative VPs oversees the development of all productions, serving as executive producers and consultants for the studio’s filmmakers. Shi will report to Docter and Pixar president Jim Morris.
Shi joined Pixar as a story artist on Docter’s 2015 film “Inside Out” and served the same role on “The Good Dinosaur,” “The Incredibles 2” and “Toy Story 4.” In 2018, she directed the short film “Bao,” which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short.
Collins, who served as VP of development,...
Shi has been named a creative vice president at Pixar, joining a creative leadership team that also includes chief creative officer Pete Docter, “Finding Nemo” director Andrew Stanton, “Onward” director Dan Scanlon and “The Good Dinosaur” director Peter Sohn. The team of creative VPs oversees the development of all productions, serving as executive producers and consultants for the studio’s filmmakers. Shi will report to Docter and Pixar president Jim Morris.
Shi joined Pixar as a story artist on Docter’s 2015 film “Inside Out” and served the same role on “The Good Dinosaur,” “The Incredibles 2” and “Toy Story 4.” In 2018, she directed the short film “Bao,” which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short.
Collins, who served as VP of development,...
- 4/5/2022
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Pixar Animation Studios is promoting “Turning Red” producer Lindsey Collins and director Domee Shi into leadership roles at the company.
Collins has been named into a new position, as senior vice president of development. She will lead the development group at Pixar for features and streaming, where current and upcoming filmmakers originate story ideas and shape them into movies for production. She will report to Pixar president Jim Morris and join the creative VP team which supports chief creative officer Pete Docter in guiding the studio’s creative direction.
Collins joins five other SVPs at Pixar, taking a leadership role in steering the studio’s overall business. She’s a nearly 25-year veteran at the studio, including roles as co-producer of “Wall-e,” producer of “Finding Dory” and vice president of development, where she helped spearhead the studio’s SparkShorts program.
“As I reflect on my 25 years at Pixar, the pride...
Collins has been named into a new position, as senior vice president of development. She will lead the development group at Pixar for features and streaming, where current and upcoming filmmakers originate story ideas and shape them into movies for production. She will report to Pixar president Jim Morris and join the creative VP team which supports chief creative officer Pete Docter in guiding the studio’s creative direction.
Collins joins five other SVPs at Pixar, taking a leadership role in steering the studio’s overall business. She’s a nearly 25-year veteran at the studio, including roles as co-producer of “Wall-e,” producer of “Finding Dory” and vice president of development, where she helped spearhead the studio’s SparkShorts program.
“As I reflect on my 25 years at Pixar, the pride...
- 4/5/2022
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
“Dune” has taken top honors at the Ves Awards garnering four awards including Photoreal feature winner. Disney’s “Encanto” was named top animated film, also winning four awards.
The Visual Effects Society (Ves), the industry’s global professional honorary society, held the 20th Annual Ves Awards, the prestigious yearly celebration that recognizes outstanding visual effects artistry and innovation in film, animation, television, commercials, video games and special venues.
This marks the Society’s 20th Ves Awards program, and is being celebrated during the organization’s milestone 25th Anniversary.
Industry guests gathered at the Beverly Hilton to celebrate VFX talent in 25 awards categories. “Foundation” The Emperor’s Peace was named best photoreal episode.
Jim Morris, Ves, President of Pixar Animation and founding Ves Chair, presented the Ves Lifetime Achievement award to EVP/General Manager of Lucasfilm, Lynwen Brennan. Academy Award-winning VFX pioneer Phil Tippett, Ves presented the Ves Award for Creative...
The Visual Effects Society (Ves), the industry’s global professional honorary society, held the 20th Annual Ves Awards, the prestigious yearly celebration that recognizes outstanding visual effects artistry and innovation in film, animation, television, commercials, video games and special venues.
This marks the Society’s 20th Ves Awards program, and is being celebrated during the organization’s milestone 25th Anniversary.
Industry guests gathered at the Beverly Hilton to celebrate VFX talent in 25 awards categories. “Foundation” The Emperor’s Peace was named best photoreal episode.
Jim Morris, Ves, President of Pixar Animation and founding Ves Chair, presented the Ves Lifetime Achievement award to EVP/General Manager of Lucasfilm, Lynwen Brennan. Academy Award-winning VFX pioneer Phil Tippett, Ves presented the Ves Award for Creative...
- 3/9/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
On Disney+ short-form series Forky Asks a Question, Bob Peterson seized the chance to work with a beloved new character from the Toy Story franchise, which was introduced to him before the rest of the world, creating stories at the same time for characters that had never gotten much screen time in the Pixar films.
A spastic, plastic spork voiced by Tony Hale, who knows nothing of the world, Forky was brought to life by toddler Bonnie in Toy Story 4. In Peterson’s series, Forky asks a series of questions about such topics as time, love and cheese, to learn a bit about how the world works.
Learning of Forky toward the end of production on Toy Story 4, Peterson instantly saw in the character something—or someone—worthy of further exploration. “Forky was going to be a super fun character, and I’ve always been a fan of Tony Hale,...
A spastic, plastic spork voiced by Tony Hale, who knows nothing of the world, Forky was brought to life by toddler Bonnie in Toy Story 4. In Peterson’s series, Forky asks a series of questions about such topics as time, love and cheese, to learn a bit about how the world works.
Learning of Forky toward the end of production on Toy Story 4, Peterson instantly saw in the character something—or someone—worthy of further exploration. “Forky was going to be a super fun character, and I’ve always been a fan of Tony Hale,...
- 8/11/2020
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
After a shoulder injury cut Mark Ciardi's professional baseball career short — the pitcher made it to the majors for a few games with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1987 — he set his sights on Hollywood, where he led off by producing a film about his onetime teammate Jim Morris. That movie, The Rookie, became a huge hit for Disney, and Ciardi has since produced a successful run of real-life sports dramas including Miracle, Invincible and Secretariat. But, the producer notes, in recent years major studios have lost interest in his genre of choice.
He has spent more than a decade trying to ...
He has spent more than a decade trying to ...
After a shoulder injury cut Mark Ciardi's professional baseball career short — the pitcher made it to the majors for a few games with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1987 — he set his sights on Hollywood, where he led off by producing a film about his onetime teammate Jim Morris. That movie, The Rookie, became a huge hit for Disney, and Ciardi has since produced a successful run of real-life sports dramas including Miracle, Invincible and Secretariat. But, the producer notes, in recent years major studios have lost interest in his genre of choice.
He has spent more than a decade trying to ...
He has spent more than a decade trying to ...
No sports? No problem, says ESPN, which will air a selection of Disney sports films as part of its Friday night programming starting this Friday. The schedule will help bridge the gap created by the hiatus of most major sports events while the nation hunkers down to avoid spreading the coronavirus.
First up at bat is The Rookie, timed to Mlb’s postponed Opening Week. The film tells the story of high school baseball coach Jim Morris, who became the oldest rookie in the major league.
Continuing the following Friday, April 3rd, timed to the traditional Ncaa Final Four weekend, will be Glory Road, the true story of future...
First up at bat is The Rookie, timed to Mlb’s postponed Opening Week. The film tells the story of high school baseball coach Jim Morris, who became the oldest rookie in the major league.
Continuing the following Friday, April 3rd, timed to the traditional Ncaa Final Four weekend, will be Glory Road, the true story of future...
- 3/26/2020
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Among the wave of alleged sexual offenders whose behavior rose to the surface in fall 2017 was John Lasseter. It turned out the chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar had a long history of misogynistic and toxic behavior toward his (mostly female) employees and by the following year, the company ousted him from his role under the guise of a resignation. His alleged behavior included a pattern of “grabbing, kissing, making comments about physical attributes,” and the Oscar-winning toon titan reportedly had minders assigned expressly to rein him in.
According to a recent piece in Vulture, life at the company has changed now in his absence. Disney has its newly launched streaming platform, Disney+, to celebrate, along with the upcoming, already well-received “Frozen 2.” (IndieWire’s review is here.)
Per the interview, Pixar president Jim Morris told Vulture that the studio was already prepping changes ahead of Lasseter’s exit,...
According to a recent piece in Vulture, life at the company has changed now in his absence. Disney has its newly launched streaming platform, Disney+, to celebrate, along with the upcoming, already well-received “Frozen 2.” (IndieWire’s review is here.)
Per the interview, Pixar president Jim Morris told Vulture that the studio was already prepping changes ahead of Lasseter’s exit,...
- 11/17/2019
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
The Walt Disney Studios announced Friday that it’s installing one of its own to run day-to-day operations at Fox’s Connecticut-based animation division, Blue Sky Studios (best known for the successful “Ice Age” franchise), as Disney works to realize its vision of discipline at the recently acquired Fox properties.
Walt Disney Animation Studios President Andrew Millstein will make a lateral move to Blue Sky, where he’ll serve as co-president, overseeing day-to-day operations alongside co-president Robert Baird, a carryover from the pre-merger days, who runs the creative side. They will both report to Walt Disney Studios’ Chief Creative Officer and Co-Chairman Alan Horn and Co-Chairman Alan Bergman.
Millstein, who’s been with Disney for more than two decades, replaces former Blue Sky co-president Andrea Miloro, who last month departed the studio.
Pixar Animation Studios President Jim Morris will be given an expanded role as Millstein’s supervisor at Blue Sky,...
Walt Disney Animation Studios President Andrew Millstein will make a lateral move to Blue Sky, where he’ll serve as co-president, overseeing day-to-day operations alongside co-president Robert Baird, a carryover from the pre-merger days, who runs the creative side. They will both report to Walt Disney Studios’ Chief Creative Officer and Co-Chairman Alan Horn and Co-Chairman Alan Bergman.
Millstein, who’s been with Disney for more than two decades, replaces former Blue Sky co-president Andrea Miloro, who last month departed the studio.
Pixar Animation Studios President Jim Morris will be given an expanded role as Millstein’s supervisor at Blue Sky,...
- 8/9/2019
- by Chris Lindahl
- Indiewire
Walt Disney Studios is making some leadership changes as it integrates Blue Sky into its portfolio of kid-friendly brands.
Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein and “Zootopia” producer and creative executive Clark Spencer are stepping into new leadership roles. Millstein will become co-president of Blue Sky, the studio behind “Ice Age” and “Rio,” alongside current co-president Robert Baird.
Baird will continue to drive the creative direction of the studio reporting to Walt Disney Studios’ chief creative officer and co-chairman Alan Horn and co-chairman Alan Bergman. Millstein will oversee day-to-day operations, focusing more on the business side. Millstein will report to Jim Morris, who will take on a supervisory role at Blue Sky. He will continue in his capacity as president of Pixar Animation Studios. Spencer has been named president of Walt Disney Animation Studios, reporting to Bergman and working alongside Walt Disney Animation Studios chief creative officer Jennifer Lee, who continues...
Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein and “Zootopia” producer and creative executive Clark Spencer are stepping into new leadership roles. Millstein will become co-president of Blue Sky, the studio behind “Ice Age” and “Rio,” alongside current co-president Robert Baird.
Baird will continue to drive the creative direction of the studio reporting to Walt Disney Studios’ chief creative officer and co-chairman Alan Horn and co-chairman Alan Bergman. Millstein will oversee day-to-day operations, focusing more on the business side. Millstein will report to Jim Morris, who will take on a supervisory role at Blue Sky. He will continue in his capacity as president of Pixar Animation Studios. Spencer has been named president of Walt Disney Animation Studios, reporting to Bergman and working alongside Walt Disney Animation Studios chief creative officer Jennifer Lee, who continues...
- 8/9/2019
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Disney Studios announced new leadership within its animation division on Friday. Walt Disney Animation Studios President Andrew Millstein will join the team at Blue Sky Studios as co-president, as Disney looks to integrate the newly acquired animation division following its purchase of Fox’s film and TV entertainment assets.
Millstein will serve alongside Blue Sky co-President Robert Baird, who will continue to drive the creative direction of the studio reporting to Disney Studios’ Chief Creative Officer and co-Chairman Alan Horn and co-Chairman Alan Bergman. As Blue Sky readies to build out its upcoming slate, Millstein will oversee day-to-day operations.
Former Blue Sky co-President Andrea Miloro left her role on July 25.
Also Read: Could Disney's New $12.99 Streaming Bundle Be a Netflix Killer?
Millstein will report to Jim Morris, who, in addition to serving as president of Pixar, will expand his duties with a supervisory role at Blue Sky.
In addition, “Zootopia...
Millstein will serve alongside Blue Sky co-President Robert Baird, who will continue to drive the creative direction of the studio reporting to Disney Studios’ Chief Creative Officer and co-Chairman Alan Horn and co-Chairman Alan Bergman. As Blue Sky readies to build out its upcoming slate, Millstein will oversee day-to-day operations.
Former Blue Sky co-President Andrea Miloro left her role on July 25.
Also Read: Could Disney's New $12.99 Streaming Bundle Be a Netflix Killer?
Millstein will report to Jim Morris, who, in addition to serving as president of Pixar, will expand his duties with a supervisory role at Blue Sky.
In addition, “Zootopia...
- 8/9/2019
- by Trey Williams
- The Wrap
Today, Walt Disney Studios’ Chief Creative Officer and Co-Chairman Alan Horn and Co-Chairman Alan Bergman announced that Walt Disney Animation Studios President Andrew Millstein has been named Co-President of Blue Sky Studios. The news comes as the Burbank studio continues to bring the assets of Fox under its domain. Millstein will serve alongside Co-President Rob Baird.
Baird will oversee the creative direction while Millstein will steer the studio’s day-to-day business. Recently, Andrea Miloro departed from her role as Co-President of Blue Sky Studios.
In addition, Clark Spencer has been promoted to President, Walt Disney Animation Studios, reporting to Bergman and working alongside Wdas Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee who continues to report to Horn and Bergman.
Millstein, a 22-year Disney vet, will report to Jim Morris, who will expand his duties with a supervisory role at Blue Sky outside of his role as President, Pixar Animation Studios.
“We are...
Baird will oversee the creative direction while Millstein will steer the studio’s day-to-day business. Recently, Andrea Miloro departed from her role as Co-President of Blue Sky Studios.
In addition, Clark Spencer has been promoted to President, Walt Disney Animation Studios, reporting to Bergman and working alongside Wdas Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee who continues to report to Horn and Bergman.
Millstein, a 22-year Disney vet, will report to Jim Morris, who will expand his duties with a supervisory role at Blue Sky outside of his role as President, Pixar Animation Studios.
“We are...
- 8/9/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Let’s get into the spirit of the World Series excitement with some of the biggest baseball movies that all hit a commercial home run. These are the highest grossing baseball movies of all time, ranked from lowest to highest.
20. “Mr. 3000” – $21.8 million
Bernie Mac plays a former baseball great who returns to the league at age 47 after learning he was just a few hits shy of 3000.
19. “Major League II” – $30.6 million
Charlie Sheen, Corbin Bernsen and Tom Berenger all came back for the sequel to “Major League,” but Wesley Snipes had become a bigger star, and his role of Willie Mays Hayes was taken over by Omar Epps.
18. “The Sandlot” – $32.4 million
“The Sandlot” performed modestly at the box office in 1993, but it found a second life as a cult film on VHS and on DVD a decade after its release.
17. “Bad News Bears” (2005) – $32.8 million
Billy Bob Thornton starred in Richard Linklater...
20. “Mr. 3000” – $21.8 million
Bernie Mac plays a former baseball great who returns to the league at age 47 after learning he was just a few hits shy of 3000.
19. “Major League II” – $30.6 million
Charlie Sheen, Corbin Bernsen and Tom Berenger all came back for the sequel to “Major League,” but Wesley Snipes had become a bigger star, and his role of Willie Mays Hayes was taken over by Omar Epps.
18. “The Sandlot” – $32.4 million
“The Sandlot” performed modestly at the box office in 1993, but it found a second life as a cult film on VHS and on DVD a decade after its release.
17. “Bad News Bears” (2005) – $32.8 million
Billy Bob Thornton starred in Richard Linklater...
- 3/28/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Disney film chief Alan Horn told Fox staffers on Thursday morning to expect ‘quite a bit of change’.
After a ruthless first wave of senior Fox executive redundancies on Thursday (March 21), Walt Disney Studios released a sanitised announcement detailing its senior leadership team following the acquisition of the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox earlier this week.
Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn sent a note to the circa 3,000 Fox staff on Thursday telling them to expect ”quite a bit of change” before news of the first Fox senior executive lay-offs leaked out. Among Thursday’s more dramatic headlines, Fox International...
After a ruthless first wave of senior Fox executive redundancies on Thursday (March 21), Walt Disney Studios released a sanitised announcement detailing its senior leadership team following the acquisition of the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox earlier this week.
Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn sent a note to the circa 3,000 Fox staff on Thursday telling them to expect ”quite a bit of change” before news of the first Fox senior executive lay-offs leaked out. Among Thursday’s more dramatic headlines, Fox International...
- 3/22/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Disney film chief Alan Horn told Fox staffers on Thursday morning to expect ‘quite a bit of change’.
After a ruthless first wave of senior Fox executive redundancies on Thursday (March 21), Walt Disney Studios released a sanitised announcement detailing its senior leadership team following the acquisition of the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox earlier this week.
Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn sent a note to the circa 3,000 Fox staff on Thursday telling them to expect ”quite a bit of change” before news of the first Fox senior executive lay-offs leaked out. Among Thursday’s more dramatic headlines, Fox International...
After a ruthless first wave of senior Fox executive redundancies on Thursday (March 21), Walt Disney Studios released a sanitised announcement detailing its senior leadership team following the acquisition of the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox earlier this week.
Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn sent a note to the circa 3,000 Fox staff on Thursday telling them to expect ”quite a bit of change” before news of the first Fox senior executive lay-offs leaked out. Among Thursday’s more dramatic headlines, Fox International...
- 3/22/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The Walt Disney Studios has officially unveiled its senior leadership team now that Disney’s $71.3 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s film and TV assets is closed. It comes at the end of a long day at 20th Century Fox Film, where several big names were laid off as the merger begins to take its form.
The Walt Disney Studios umbrella will be led by chairman Alan Horn and president Alan Bergman, who have been making the rounds to finalize their lineups this week.
“At the core of The Walt Disney Studios is the world-class content we produce – from unforgettable experiences for the screen and stage, to stories and characters that find their way into the hearts and homes of fans everywhere,” Horn said in the release Thursday which did not mention today’s layoffs. “Bringing together the legacies, talent, and capabilities of Disney and Fox greatly expands our...
The Walt Disney Studios umbrella will be led by chairman Alan Horn and president Alan Bergman, who have been making the rounds to finalize their lineups this week.
“At the core of The Walt Disney Studios is the world-class content we produce – from unforgettable experiences for the screen and stage, to stories and characters that find their way into the hearts and homes of fans everywhere,” Horn said in the release Thursday which did not mention today’s layoffs. “Bringing together the legacies, talent, and capabilities of Disney and Fox greatly expands our...
- 3/22/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Following the dismissal of top executives in distribution, marketing and strategy on Thursday, new 20th Century Fox owner Disney has clarified its new top leadership.
Five distinct Fox labels and a portion of their leadership have been welcomed into the Disney fold, the company said. This includes Twentieth Century Fox, Fox Family, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox 2000, and Blue Sky Studios.
The Elizabeth Gabler-run imprint Fox 2000 will be shuttered, Variety previously reported earlier in the day, though the late Thursday announcement from Disney noted Gabler will continue on through “the completion of the current slate.” Animation label Blue Sky Studios is expected to complete the release of two films in production, Variety reported last year, though its fate after that point is unknown.
Remaining studio leadership at labels like Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Animation, Pixar, Lucasfilm and Marvel remains unchanged. Fox Film lost a series of top leaders in marketing,...
Five distinct Fox labels and a portion of their leadership have been welcomed into the Disney fold, the company said. This includes Twentieth Century Fox, Fox Family, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox 2000, and Blue Sky Studios.
The Elizabeth Gabler-run imprint Fox 2000 will be shuttered, Variety previously reported earlier in the day, though the late Thursday announcement from Disney noted Gabler will continue on through “the completion of the current slate.” Animation label Blue Sky Studios is expected to complete the release of two films in production, Variety reported last year, though its fate after that point is unknown.
Remaining studio leadership at labels like Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Animation, Pixar, Lucasfilm and Marvel remains unchanged. Fox Film lost a series of top leaders in marketing,...
- 3/22/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Computer animation pioneer was hired by George Lucas in 1979.
Ed Catmull, the co-founder of Pixar and president of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, will retire next year.
Catmull announced the move on Tuesday (23) and will step down from his current role at The Walt Disney Company at end of 2018 and remain an employee in an advisory role through July 2019.
Following Catmull’s retirement, Pixar president Jim Morris and Walt Disney Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein will continue to oversee operations of their respective studios, reporting to Walt Disney Studios president Alan Bergman.
Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation...
Ed Catmull, the co-founder of Pixar and president of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, will retire next year.
Catmull announced the move on Tuesday (23) and will step down from his current role at The Walt Disney Company at end of 2018 and remain an employee in an advisory role through July 2019.
Following Catmull’s retirement, Pixar president Jim Morris and Walt Disney Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein will continue to oversee operations of their respective studios, reporting to Walt Disney Studios president Alan Bergman.
Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation...
- 10/24/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Ed Catmull, a longtime leader at Pixar and Walt Disney Animation, has announced plans to retire.
Pixar president Jim Morris and Walt Disney Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein will continue in his place, as the 73-year-old transitions to an advisory role to end in summer 2019.
Morris and Millstein will report up to Walt Disney Studios President Alan Bergman, while each studio’s respective chief creative officer, Pete Docter and Jennifer Lee, will continue to report to Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn.
Catmull leaves behind a 40 year legacy of developing technology for film, and took part in Pixar’s historic release of the first ever computer animated feature (“Toy Story”) in 1995. He was hired by George Lucas in 1979 to lead the computer division at Lucasfilm. He would go on to co-found Pixar in 1986 with Steve Jobs and John Lasseter.
“Never in my wildest imagination could I have conceived of the...
Pixar president Jim Morris and Walt Disney Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein will continue in his place, as the 73-year-old transitions to an advisory role to end in summer 2019.
Morris and Millstein will report up to Walt Disney Studios President Alan Bergman, while each studio’s respective chief creative officer, Pete Docter and Jennifer Lee, will continue to report to Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn.
Catmull leaves behind a 40 year legacy of developing technology for film, and took part in Pixar’s historic release of the first ever computer animated feature (“Toy Story”) in 1995. He was hired by George Lucas in 1979 to lead the computer division at Lucasfilm. He would go on to co-found Pixar in 1986 with Steve Jobs and John Lasseter.
“Never in my wildest imagination could I have conceived of the...
- 10/23/2018
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Pixar co-founder and computer animation pioneer Ed Catmull will retire next year after more than four decades working in the film industry. The soft-spoken computer engineer will step down from his current role as president of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios at the end of the year, though he’ll serve in an advisory role through July 2019.
Following Catmull’s retirement, Pixar president Jim Morris and Walt Disney Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein will continue to oversee operations of their respective studios, reporting to Walt Disney Studios president Alan Bergman.
Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios will continue to be creatively led by chief creative officers Pete Docter and Jennifer Lee, respectively, reporting to Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn.
“Ed Catmull’s impact on the entertainment industry is immeasurable,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement Tuesday. “A pioneer of the intersection of creativity and technology,...
Following Catmull’s retirement, Pixar president Jim Morris and Walt Disney Animation Studios president Andrew Millstein will continue to oversee operations of their respective studios, reporting to Walt Disney Studios president Alan Bergman.
Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios will continue to be creatively led by chief creative officers Pete Docter and Jennifer Lee, respectively, reporting to Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn.
“Ed Catmull’s impact on the entertainment industry is immeasurable,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement Tuesday. “A pioneer of the intersection of creativity and technology,...
- 10/23/2018
- by Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
The John Lasseter era is really over at Pixar and Disney with Tuesday’s promotions of Pete Docter and Jennifer Lee as chief creative officers of the respective animation studios. They’ve been the frontrunners all along to succeed Lasseter (set to leave Disney and Pixar at year’s end after allegations of workplace sexual harassment), and they are great choices. We can expect smooth transitions and likely success at Pixar and Disney along with better morale, improved workplace conditions, and, hopefully, greater advancement opportunities for women.
Docter was one of Pixar’s first employees, joining the studio in 1990 during the production of “Toy Story,” and the director of “Monsters, Inc.,” and the Oscar-winning “Up” and “Inside Out.” He’s a consummate animator and storyteller: warm, sensitive, funny, and a risk taker. He’s beloved at Pixar (a valued member of the Brain Trust), and has learned well from both...
Docter was one of Pixar’s first employees, joining the studio in 1990 during the production of “Toy Story,” and the director of “Monsters, Inc.,” and the Oscar-winning “Up” and “Inside Out.” He’s a consummate animator and storyteller: warm, sensitive, funny, and a risk taker. He’s beloved at Pixar (a valued member of the Brain Trust), and has learned well from both...
- 6/20/2018
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Outgoing John Lasseter will depart Disney on December 31.
As expected, Disney has named Jennifer Lee head of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pete Docter head of Pixar in the wake of the John Lasseter controversy.
Both executives are named chief creative officer in their respective roles and report to The Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn.
The succession comes after Disney announced it was letting go of Lasseter following allegations of improper behaviour towards women. The former Disney animation chief will leave the studio on December 31 after a six-month transitional stint as consultant.
“Jennifer Lee and Pete Docter are two...
As expected, Disney has named Jennifer Lee head of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pete Docter head of Pixar in the wake of the John Lasseter controversy.
Both executives are named chief creative officer in their respective roles and report to The Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn.
The succession comes after Disney announced it was letting go of Lasseter following allegations of improper behaviour towards women. The former Disney animation chief will leave the studio on December 31 after a six-month transitional stint as consultant.
“Jennifer Lee and Pete Docter are two...
- 6/19/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Outgoing John Lasseter will depart Disney on December 31.
As expected, Disney has named Jennifer Lee head of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pete Docter head of Pixar in the wake of the John Lasseter controversy.
Both executives are named chief creative officer in their respective roles and report to The Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn.
The succession comes after Disney announced it was letting go of Lasseter following allegations of improper behaviour towards women. The former Disney animation chief will leave the studio on December 31 after a six-month transitional stint as consultant.
“Jennifer Lee and Pete Docter are two...
As expected, Disney has named Jennifer Lee head of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pete Docter head of Pixar in the wake of the John Lasseter controversy.
Both executives are named chief creative officer in their respective roles and report to The Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn.
The succession comes after Disney announced it was letting go of Lasseter following allegations of improper behaviour towards women. The former Disney animation chief will leave the studio on December 31 after a six-month transitional stint as consultant.
“Jennifer Lee and Pete Docter are two...
- 6/19/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
In the wake of Disney’s announcement that its animation chief John Lasseter would be exiting by year-end after a number of misconduct accusations, the studio has named Frozen Oscar-winner Jennifer Lee as chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios, and two-time Oscar winner of Up and Inside Out Pete Docter as chief creative officer of Pixar Animation Studios.
Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn announced the appointments, which had been anticipated since Disney announced Lasseter’s departure. The news ends a period of uncertainty at the two animation studios, as questions loomed about whether Lasseter would return following his six-month leave of absence.
“Jennifer Lee and Pete Docter are two of the most gifted filmmakers and storytellers I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with,” Horn said in a statement. “Pete, the genius creative force behind Up, Inside Out, and Monsters, Inc., has been an integral part...
Walt Disney Studios Chairman Alan Horn announced the appointments, which had been anticipated since Disney announced Lasseter’s departure. The news ends a period of uncertainty at the two animation studios, as questions loomed about whether Lasseter would return following his six-month leave of absence.
“Jennifer Lee and Pete Docter are two of the most gifted filmmakers and storytellers I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with,” Horn said in a statement. “Pete, the genius creative force behind Up, Inside Out, and Monsters, Inc., has been an integral part...
- 6/19/2018
- by Anthony D'Alessandro and Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
Reflecting on the studio’s upcoming slate, Pixar President Jim Morris revealed during the summer that the animation giant currently has plans in place for four original movies beyond 2019. Such a statement of intent was greeted with open arms, particularly after a string of sequels in the form of Toy Story 3, Cars 2, Monsters University and Finding Dory.
Each film earned respectable reviews, of course, and Toy Story 3 blew past all expectations to enter Hollywood’s billion dollar club, but there’s something to be said about Pixar’s originality – just look at Inside Out. Striking a balance between established properties and new IP is key, then, and according to director Pete Docter, a third installment in the Monsters, Inc. franchise could be in the cards.
When quizzed by Entertainment Weekly about the prospect of Monsters, Inc. 3, Docter replied as so:
You never say never — who knows what will happen?...
Each film earned respectable reviews, of course, and Toy Story 3 blew past all expectations to enter Hollywood’s billion dollar club, but there’s something to be said about Pixar’s originality – just look at Inside Out. Striking a balance between established properties and new IP is key, then, and according to director Pete Docter, a third installment in the Monsters, Inc. franchise could be in the cards.
When quizzed by Entertainment Weekly about the prospect of Monsters, Inc. 3, Docter replied as so:
You never say never — who knows what will happen?...
- 11/2/2016
- by Michael Briers
- We Got This Covered
October 29 was the eighth annual Ves Summit (at the Sofitel Hotel in Beverly Hills), where Visual Effects Society members discuss the tech and business elements of their craft — but this year, the obsession was virtual. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality dominated the discussions, including two panels: “Cinematography and VFX: What Constitutes ‘Real’?” and “Visual Effects in the Wild.” However, at Ves, the untamed landscape was the one between our ears. Here’s our top takeaways.
Expect your amusement park attractions to become increasingly virtual. Sam Richards, visual effects design manager at Walt Disney Imagineering, said they’re trying to figure out how to put Vr into an attraction, given the cost of headgear, and are currently experimenting with pre-show usage.
See More‘The Simpsons’ Teams with Google to Enter Virtual Reality for Its 600th Episode
Vr will be the new VIP ticket. “Artists want to sell a premium ticket to incorporate holographic elements on stage,...
Expect your amusement park attractions to become increasingly virtual. Sam Richards, visual effects design manager at Walt Disney Imagineering, said they’re trying to figure out how to put Vr into an attraction, given the cost of headgear, and are currently experimenting with pre-show usage.
See More‘The Simpsons’ Teams with Google to Enter Virtual Reality for Its 600th Episode
Vr will be the new VIP ticket. “Artists want to sell a premium ticket to incorporate holographic elements on stage,...
- 10/31/2016
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Two of Pixar’s animators, Andrew Coats and Lou Hamou-Lhadj (“Inside Out,” “Brave”), have made the first off-the-shelf CG short at the studio. After winning a slew of film festival awards (including Siggraph’s prestigious Best in Show), the adult Western “Borrowed Time,” produced at Pixar University’s Co-op program, recently went viral on Vimeo. (Watch it below.)
Boasting a beautiful Monument Valley landscape right out of John Ford and Sergio Leone, it’s a sensitive and exquisitely rendered story about a mournful sheriff who returns to the scene of a tragic accident he can no longer escape, as painful memories keep flooding back.
“They have a brand at Pixar and what we did was completely off-brand and they appreciated it, but it was not something that Pixar would literally would ever make,” Hamou-Lhadj told IndieWire. “There’s themes in it that they could address, but it wouldn’t be done in the same way.
Boasting a beautiful Monument Valley landscape right out of John Ford and Sergio Leone, it’s a sensitive and exquisitely rendered story about a mournful sheriff who returns to the scene of a tragic accident he can no longer escape, as painful memories keep flooding back.
“They have a brand at Pixar and what we did was completely off-brand and they appreciated it, but it was not something that Pixar would literally would ever make,” Hamou-Lhadj told IndieWire. “There’s themes in it that they could address, but it wouldn’t be done in the same way.
- 10/24/2016
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
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