“Once Upon a Studio: Celebrating Burny Mattinson’s Legacy at Disney’s 100th Anniversary”

Key Points from the Article

  • The original short film “Once Upon a Studio” features hundreds of Disney characters coming together for a magical tribute, marking the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Animation Studios.
  • Disney Legend Burny Mattinson, the longest-serving employee of the company, was featured in the opening scene of the short film, filmed six months before his passing at age 87.
  • Mattinson started working at Disney in 1953 and made significant contributions to new animation projects up until his passing.
  • His body of work includes iconic films such as “Lady and the Tramp”, “Sleeping Beauty”, “One Hundred and One Dalmatians”, and “The Jungle Book”.
  • Mattinson is said to have saved Disney Animation with his influential production of “The Great Mouse Detective” in 1986, as per animator/director Eric Goldberg.
  • In his later years, Mattinson mentored young filmmakers and shared his vast knowledge acquired during his tenure at Disney.
  • The credits for “Once Upon a Studio” end with a tribute to Mattinson highlighting his significant contributions to Disney animation.
  • The short film is set to debut on Sunday, October 15, as part of ABC’s “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disney’s 100th Anniversary Celebration!” programming block.

The Realists Take

Fasten your seatbelts, as we time-travel through the hallowed halls of Walt Disney Animation Studios courtesy of “Once Upon a Studio”. This tribute is like Disney’s endgame, bringing together more characters than a royal wedding. The star of it all? Not Mickey Mouse, but Burny Mattinson, a lanky fella who’s been flipping doodles into magic longer than Goofy has been, well, being Goofy. Our man Burny could teach the Sorcerer’s Apprentice a thing or two, he’s been creating enchantment since the days when Cinderella was still doing her own chores. Film his cameo six months before his swansong at 87? Now that’s a cliffhanger ending Jack Sparrow would appreciate. From nearly single-handedly saving Disney Animation, to nurturing bright-eyed newbies, Burny’s been through it all. Tune in on October 15, as we raise our popcorn and say “Cheers” to the big Burn and his epic legacy. It’s the most magical tribute this side of Neverland!

https://d23.com/honoring-disney-legend-burny-mattinsons-legacy-in-disney-animations-once-upon-a-studio/