Key Points
- The original short ‘Once Upon a Studio’ is set at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, after the employees head home.
- Disney Legend Burny Mattinson is the last person to leave in the storyline, followed by animated characters Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse who step out to take an official 100th anniversary portrait.
- Dan Abraham and Trent Correy directed this unique short, which features a mix of hand-drawn and CG (Computer Generated) characters, including Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Merlin, Baymax and Rapunzel.
- The short is a result of a secret 8-month pitch developed by the directors and was finally presented to Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee in late 2021.
- Over 40 original voice cast members were roped in for the project.
- The short was a blend of hand-drawn and CG animation, ensuring that the characters stay faithful to their roots.
- Characters from more than 85 Disney feature films and shorts make an appearance in the short film, which will debut as part of ABC’s The Wonderful World of Disney: Disney’s 100th Anniversary Celebration!
The Realist’s Take
So, Disney artists have been secretly doodling and plotting this spectacular after-office-hours party, and we’re invited! The good old Mickey Mouse doesn’t just ask his buddies to pose for a cute selfie, no no. Instead, he throws a massive shindig featuring over 85 iconic Disney characters – talk about a power-packed reunion! The CG nerds and the traditional-pencil-pushers bring everyone to life, including those who’ve had a nip and tuck in the animation world over the years. Honestly, it feels like the wildest Disney crossover party ever thrown, much wilder than any office party you’ve ever attended – unless of course, your co-worker is a rabbit with magical powers or a hug-loving healthcare robot. The photobombing level in this group snap is off the charts. So, set your reminders for a laughter ride as Once Upon a Studio makes its grand entrance into the Wonderful World of Disney!
https://d23.com/celebrating-the-artistry-and-technology-behind-disney-animations-once-upon-a-studio/