Disney fans have something new to celebrate as Walt Disney Animation Studios’ latest short film, Once Upon a Studio, is now available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. This comes as part of Disney’s 100-year anniversary celebration, and the film will also be broadcasted on Disney Channel, Freeform, FX, and various other Disney networks.
Once Upon a Studio is a true tribute to Disney’s rich history, featuring a whopping 543 beloved Disney characters from over 85 feature-length and short films. The film not only celebrates 10 decades of storytelling but also showcases the impressive technological achievements that Disney has accomplished over the years.
The story follows none other than Mickey Mouse himself as he takes charge and leads a group of Disney characters in a group photo to commemorate Disney’s centennial anniversary. Fans can expect to see their favorite characters from classics like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “The Lion King,” “Frozen,” and many more come together in this heartwarming short.
The creative minds behind Once Upon a Studio are writer and director duo Dan Abraham and Trent Correy. The film is produced by Yvett Merino and Bradford Simonsen. The passion put into the project was evident from the start, as Jennifer Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Disney Animation, was moved to tears during the pitch meeting for the film.
The film’s animation was a collaborative effort between two talented individuals. Eric Goldberg took the lead in hand-drawn animation, while Andrew Feliciano headed the CG animation department. Their expertise and dedication to their craft brought the characters to life in a way that truly honors Disney’s legacy.
Once Upon a Studio also includes a special cameo by Disney Legend Burny Mattinson, who holds the record for being the longest-serving employee of The Walt Disney Company. This adds an extra layer of nostalgia and sentimentality to the film.
Additionally, five hand-drawn animation apprentices were selected to contribute to Once Upon a Studio, making it the first time in over a decade that Disney has brought in new talent for this type of animation. This move not only highlights the studio’s commitment to preserving traditional animation techniques but also offers aspiring animators a chance to learn from the best.
The film wouldn’t be complete without a musical touch, and Richard Sherman, another Disney Legend, returned to Walt Disney’s office at the remarkable age of 94 to rerecord a song for Once Upon a Studio. This reaffirms Sherman’s enduring dedication to Disney and adds yet another layer of authenticity to the film’s soundtrack.
Once Upon a Studio stands as a testament to Disney’s longevity and the impact it has had on countless lives. Fans of all ages can now experience the magic of this short film that brings together beloved characters from generations past. So, grab your popcorn, gather your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Disney once again.
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