Mickey Mouse and Princess Minnie in The Brave LIttle Tailor

Rob Jaiven

 

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse have been enchanting audiences with their timeless love story and delightful antics for nearly a century. One of their most famous and beloved adventures is “The Brave Little Tailor,” a classic Walt Disney short film released in 1938. This delightful tale features Mickey’s accidental declaration that he has “killed seven with one blow,” leading to an unexpected adventure where he must prove his bravery and eventually win Princess Minnie’s hand in marriage.

A Humble Tailor’s Accidental Boast

Mickey Mouse as the Brave Little Tailor kills seven flies at once while at his work. He unknowingly interrupts a conversation among several other peasants about the problems with the giant to brag loudly about his accomplishment. The seven (flies, not giants as the king believes) impresses the king enough to appoint him “Royal High Killer of the Giant”. The king thinks he is holding out for a bigger payday and offers him increasingly vast riches and then (at her suggestion) the hand of his only daughter, Princess Minnie in marriage if he can kill, or at least subdue, the giant.,

Trials and Triumph

“Gosh,” Mickey sighs to himself later, sitting in a field of deserted countryside wondering what to do. “I dunno how to catch a giant.” Despite his size, Mickey cleverly manages to defeat the giant through a series of comical and resourceful maneuvers, showcasing his ingenuity and bravery.

Winning Princess Minnie’s Heart

In the end, Mickey returns to the kingdom, where the king is delighted to have the giant defeated. However, to everyone’s surprise, Minnie reveals that she has fallen for the brave tailor, not the giant-slayer. The story concludes with Mickey and Minnie’s love blossoming, and the promise of marriage made at the beginning of the tale becomes a reality.

 

“The Brave Little Tailor” is a charming tale that exemplifies the essence of Mickey and Minnie Mouse. It emphasizes the importance of wit, resourcefulness, and humility over physical prowess. While Mickey’s initial boast of “killing seven with one blow” leads to a series of comic misadventures, his ultimate triumph is achieved through his courage and cleverness, with the support of his beloved Minnie. This heartwarming tale highlights their enduring love story and showcases how love and ingenuity can conquer any challenge. Mickey and Minnie continue to be beloved icons, inspiring audiences with their adventures and timeless romance.

 

The Crazy Cartoons of Tex Avery and Their Enduring Influence on Animation

Rob Jaiven

Animation has always been a realm of imagination and creativity, and no one embodied these qualities quite like the legendary Tex Avery. Known for his zany, wild, and innovative cartoons, Tex Avery revolutionized the world of animation and influenced countless animators who came after him. In this article, we will explore the crazy cartoons of Tex Avery and their enduring influence on the world of animation, including the groundbreaking film “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.”

The Tex Avery Legacy

Tex Avery, born Frederick Bean Avery in 1908, was a trailblazing animator and director who is most renowned for his work at Warner Bros. and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). His unique approach to animation infused humor and surrealism in ways that had never been seen before. Avery’s work was characterized by exaggerated physical comedy, wacky gags, and an unapologetically absurd sense of humor.

Avery’s Crazy Cartoons

  1. “Red Hot Riding Hood” (1943): One of Avery’s most iconic cartoons, “Red Hot Riding Hood” takes the classic fairy tale and transforms it into a risqué, hilarious, and frenetic comedy. It introduced the character of the sultry and vivacious Red, a stark departure from the traditional Little Red Riding Hood, and set the stage for the creation of Avery’s signature style.
  2. “Droopy” Series: Avery also created the lovable and lethargic basset hound, Droopy. The Droopy cartoons are known for their deadpan humor and absurdity. Droopy became an endearing character to audiences and is still celebrated today for his nonchalant charm.
  3. “The Three Little Pigs” (1942): In this cartoon, Avery put his own twist on the classic fable. He turned the big bad wolf into a boisterous, helium-voiced character whose huffing and puffing were more comedic than threatening.

Influence on Future Animators

Avery’s work was groundbreaking, not only for its comedic innovation but also for the technical achievements that pushed the boundaries of animation. He popularized the use of “smears” (stretching characters’ shapes for comedic effect) and quick, exaggerated movements that later became hallmarks of animation.

Avery’s influence extended far beyond his own era. Many animators and directors who came after him were inspired by his approach to comedy and animation, and his influence is particularly evident in the work of the following individuals:

  1. Chuck Jones: Known for his work at Warner Bros., Chuck Jones was greatly influenced by Avery’s approach to physical comedy and character design. Jones went on to create iconic characters like Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner.
  2. Bob Clampett: Another animator at Warner Bros., Bob Clampett, embraced Avery’s irreverent humor and kinetic animation style, which can be seen in his work on cartoons like “Porky Pig.”
  3. Steven Spielberg: While not an animator, Steven Spielberg was influenced by Avery’s work and later used animation techniques in his live-action/animation hybrid masterpiece, “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.”

“Who Framed Roger Rabbit” and the Avery Legacy

Released in 1988, “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” was a groundbreaking film that blended live-action and animation in a way that had never been done before. The film’s success can be largely attributed to Tex Avery’s influence. The character of Roger Rabbit, with his exaggerated expressions and manic energy, paid homage to Avery’s style. The film’s director, Robert Zemeckis, and producer, Steven Spielberg, were both fans of Avery’s work, and they sought to capture the essence of classic cartoons while blending them seamlessly with live-action.

 

Tex Avery’s crazy cartoons have left an indelible mark on the world of animation. His unique brand of humor, innovative animation techniques, and unforgettable characters have influenced generations of animators and filmmakers. Avery’s legacy lives on not only in classic cartoons but also in groundbreaking films like “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” which continue to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide.

The Magic Behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty

Rob Jaiven

Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty

 

“Sleeping Beauty” is a timeless classic in the world of animation and one of Walt Disney’s most enchanting productions. Released in 1959, this animated masterpiece marked a significant moment in the history of animation, bringing together the visionary artistic talents of Eyvind Earle, the incredible animation skills of Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, and a breathtaking story that has captured the hearts of generations. In this article, we will explore the contributions of these three remarkable individuals to the creation of “Sleeping Beauty.”

Eyvind Earle: Sleeping Beauty’s Visual Mastermind

Eyvind Earle was the artistic genius behind the visual style of “Sleeping Beauty.” His work on the film remains iconic for its distinctive and breathtaking artistry. Earle was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to infuse each frame with a sense of enchantment.

The film’s visual design is characterized by its medieval-inspired look, which was a departure from Disney’s previous animated films. Earle’s use of bold colors and intricate patterns created a tapestry-like quality that gave the movie a unique and timeless aesthetic. His dedication to detail can be seen in the ornate backgrounds, the intricate forest scenes, and the grandeur of the castle. It was Earle’s artistic vision that made “Sleeping Beauty” a visual masterpiece that continues to inspire animators and artists to this day.

Marc Davis, Frank Thomas, and Ollie Johnston: Animation Pioneers

Marc Davis, Frank Thomas, and Ollie Johnston were three of Disney’s legendary Nine Old Men, a group of core animators who played a pivotal role in shaping the Disney animation legacy. In “Sleeping Beauty,” their work was instrumental in bringing the characters to life, creating memorable and enduring performances.

Marc Davis was responsible for animating the character Maleficent, one of the most iconic Disney villains. Marc Davis’ work on Maleficent helped define her as a formidable and memorable character. In addition to animating Maleficent, Marc Davis also contributed to the design and development of other characters in the film, such as Princess Aurora (Briar Rose), the three good fairies (Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather), and the prince.

Frank Thomas was responsible for animating some of the film’s most iconic characters, including the lovable fairies Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather. His skill in conveying personality and emotion through animation is evident in the fairies’ distinct and endearing characteristics. These characters added a layer of humor and warmth to the film, making it more relatable to audiences.

Ollie Johnston, on the other hand, took on the challenging task of animating the film’s central character, Princess Aurora, and her alter ego, Briar Rose. Johnston’s animation work brought a depth of emotion and humanity to the character, making Aurora a relatable and engaging protagonist. His attention to detail and understanding of movement and expression allowed him to convey the nuances of Aurora’s journey, from her youthful exuberance to the poise and grace of a princess.

The Collaborative Magic

“Sleeping Beauty” was a remarkable collaboration between Eyvind Earle’s visual artistry and Marc Davis, Frank Thomas, and Ollie Johnston’s animation prowess. These four talents, along with a dedicated team of animators, created a film that remains a testament to the art of animation.

The film’s success also depended on the vision and leadership of Walt Disney himself, who pushed the boundaries of animation with each project. “Sleeping Beauty” was no exception, as it marked the first time a Disney animated feature was released in Technirama 70 mm, a widescreen format that enhanced the visual grandeur of the film.

Conclusion

“Sleeping Beauty” stands as a testament to the collaborative effort of many talented individuals, but the contributions of Eyvind Earle, Frank Thomas, and Ollie Johnston were particularly vital in creating a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences today. Their artistic and animation skills, combined with the visionary leadership of Walt Disney, resulted in a film that has left an indelible mark on the world of animation. “Sleeping Beauty” remains a shining example of the magic that happens when creative geniuses come together to tell a timeless story.

Cartoon Movie Posters

Rob Jaiven

 

Movie posters serve as the first impression of a film, and in the world of animated movies, this initial impression is often filled with whimsy, wonder, and storytelling that transcends generations. Cartoon movie posters are a unique art form, combining vivid colors, creativity, and iconic characters to captivate audiences even before they step into the theater. We will explore the fascinating world of cartoon movie posters and the artistic magic they bring to the world of cinema.

The Power of Visual Storytelling

Cartoon movie posters are a celebration of the power of visual storytelling. In just one image, they must convey the essence of the film, setting the tone and drawing the audience into the fantastical world within. They accomplish this through a combination of artistic elements:

  1. Vibrant Colors: Cartoon movie posters often use a rich and diverse color palette to evoke the mood and themes of the film. Bright, cheerful colors for family-friendly movies, and darker, more dramatic tones for those with deeper themes.
  2. Iconic Characters: These posters typically feature the film’s main characters in their most recognizable poses. These characters become the focal point, inviting the audience to connect with them.
  3. Unique Worlds: To transport viewers into the film’s universe, cartoon movie posters often depict key locations, magical landscapes, or otherworldly realms that are central to the story.
  4. Eye-Catching Typography: Clever use of fonts and lettering can add an extra layer of personality and storytelling to the poster.

Timeless Appeal

Cartoon movie posters have a unique ability to transcend generations. They create a sense of nostalgia for adults who grew up with these beloved characters while also igniting the imaginations of new generations. The enduring appeal of characters like Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, or Elsa from “Frozen” can be attributed, in part, to the iconic posters that introduced them to the world.

Evolving with Technology

As technology has advanced, so has the art of cartoon movie posters. While hand-drawn artwork still holds a special place in our hearts, digital art and 3D animation have expanded the creative possibilities. These innovations have allowed for even more breathtaking and immersive posters.

Collectibility and Artistic Value

Cartoon movie posters aren’t just marketing tools; they’re also collectible works of art. Vintage posters, in particular, can be highly sought after by collectors. Their artistic value is undeniable, and they serve as a testament to the cultural impact of these films.

Conclusion

Cartoon movie posters are more than just promotional materials; they are the gateway to magical worlds and timeless stories. They harness the power of visual storytelling, capturing the essence of a film and inviting us to immerse ourselves in its adventures. From the hand-drawn classics of the past to the digitally masterful posters of today, the art of cartoon movie posters is an integral part of the cinematic experience, one that continues to captivate audiences and kindle the flames of imagination. Whether you’re a fan of animation or a lover of art, cartoon movie posters offer a visual feast for the eyes and a window into the extraordinary world of animated storytelling.

The Magic Behind Mickey Mouse Animation Art

Rob Jaiven

 

Introduction

Mickey Mouse, the iconic and beloved character created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, has been entertaining audiences for nearly a century. His cheerful, can-do spirit and timeless appeal have made him a pop culture icon. But there’s more to Mickey than just his charming personality. Behind every on-screen appearance of this animated superstar lies a world of artistic creativity and innovation. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Mickey Mouse animation art.

The Birth of Mickey Mouse

Mickey Mouse made his debut in the short film “Steamboat Willie” in 1928. This landmark moment in animation history marked the first synchronized sound cartoon. It was an instant success and established Mickey as a star. The animation techniques used in this groundbreaking short film laid the foundation for the future of animation.

Character Design

The creation of Mickey Mouse began with the iconic character design. Ub Iwerks, the unsung hero behind Mickey’s distinctive look, designed the character. Mickey’s round ears, red shorts, and large, expressive eyes were a radical departure from previous cartoon characters. His simple design made him easy to animate, allowing for fluid and expressive movement.

Hand-Drawn Animation

In the early days of animation, everything was hand-drawn. Animators like Walt Disney himself, Ub Iwerks, and other talented artists painstakingly drew each frame of a film. Mickey’s animation was characterized by smooth, exaggerated movements and exaggerated facial expressions, which brought the character to life. Animating Mickey was a labor-intensive process, with thousands of drawings required for even a short film.

Innovation and Sound

“Steamboat Willie” introduced synchronized sound to animation, forever changing the way we experience cartoons. Mickey’s high-pitched voice and catchy tunes made him an instant hit. The integration of sound and animation was a groundbreaking advancement that transformed the industry. It allowed for more immersive storytelling and increased emotional depth in animated characters.

Colorization

In 1929, Mickey made the leap from black and white to color, as Disney introduced the world to “The Band Concert.” The introduction of color animation added a new layer of vibrancy to Mickey’s world, making it even more enchanting for audiences.

Evolution and Legacy

Over the decades, Mickey Mouse has continued to evolve. His design and animation techniques have been updated, keeping him relevant while retaining his classic charm. From “Fantasia” to “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” to modern appearances in animated series and theme park attractions, Mickey remains a beloved and enduring character.

Collecting Mickey Mouse Animation Art

Mickey Mouse animation art has become a prized collectible for fans and art enthusiasts. Original animation cels, production sketches, and concept art offer a glimpse into the painstaking creative process that brought Mickey to life. These artworks are not only a testament to the craftsmanship of the animators but also a cherished part of Disney history.

Conclusion

Mickey Mouse animation art is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring appeal of a beloved character. The artistry that brought Mickey to life on the silver screen has left an indelible mark on the world of animation. As we continue to enjoy Mickey’s adventures, let’s not forget the incredible artists and animators who brought him to life and made magic happen one frame at a time. Mickey Mouse will forever be a symbol of the boundless possibilities of animation and storytelling, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The boy who wouldn't grow up

Peter Pan

Rob Jaiven

Peter Pan, or the Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up was a stage play written by J.M. Barrie. It premiered in London on December 27, 1904. Peter Pan ran there for ten years. During that time  it also ran on Broadway. Barrie also adapted Peter Pan into a novel, Peter and Wendy, released in 1911. It has always been a most beloved story.

(It needs to noted that there was certainly racism shown in the portrayal of the Indians. It was not controversial at the time. Walt Disney’s Peter Pan released in 1953 was much softer. Still there was an element of caricature in the portrayal of the Indians. Most of this was common in most of the 20th century. Not to say it was justifiable. But remember, when Peter Pan came out in 1953 Amos and Andy was still on TV. It was incredibly racist. Also incredibly funny with impeccable timing and comic reactions.)

Of course Disney’s animated film Peter Pan is the version loved by most. Disney acquired the rights to Peter Pan as early as 1939. Animation art from Peter Pan is always fun. Perhaps the best are fights between Peter and Captain Hook. After wicked witches, evil queens and wicked stepmothers we needed a great male villain. We got one in the good captain.

Hook's special smokes.
Hook’s special smokes.

http://animationartstudio.com/animation-art/animation-cel-captain-hook

Our Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up loves to fight Hook. He loves to torture him too.

The boy who wouldn't grow up
Peter Pan flying over Neverland.

http://animationartstudio.com/animation-art/animation-cel-peter-pan-flying

Bobby Driscoll was the voice of Peter Pan and Hans Conried voiced Capt. Hook. Mr. Conried was also the voice of George Darling. Mr. Smee was Hook’s personal assistant. He was always bossed around by the Captain. Mr. Smee served as Peter Pan’s comic relief. He was voiced by Bill Thompson.

Comic relief
Mr. Smee never a dull moment

http://animationartstudio.com/animation-art/animation-cel-mr-smee

Like all good adventure stories there is a climactic fight. Peter Pan and Captain Hook fight all over the pirate ship. After his defeat Hook is seen fleeing while pursued by the crocodile Tick-Tock who wants more than just the captain’s hand he had as an appetizer.

Fight to the finish
The final battle

http://animationartstudio.com/animation-art/animation-cels-and-background-peter-pan-hook

For children of all ages Peter Pan keeps us forever young.

 

Susie the Little Blue Coupe

Rob Jaiven

Susie the Little Blue Coupe is an anthropomorphized car created by Walt Disney Studios for the animated short with the same name. To anthropomorphize is to assign human characteristics to non human objects. Either animals, plants or inanimate objects can be used. Of course, Disney Studios, along with all other animation studios have a long history of this. Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Porky Pig are examples. These are all animals. This blog is about anthropomorphizing inanimate objects like Susie the Little Blue Coupe.

Some of my favorite cartoons are these kind. The way animators can imbue cars or hats or boats with a totally believable human personality can be quite entertaining. In the case of Susie the Little Blue Coupe, Susie often seems more human than many people you might meet. Susie is not the only inanimate object that Disney was able to give a human personality to.

Johnny Fedora and Alice Bluebonnet were two hats who fell in love. Boy meets girl. Boy falls in love with girl. Boy and girl get separated. Boy and girl are reunited. That’s the definition of a musical comedy. And all to the voices of the Andrew Sisters. This was the ninth segment out of ten which made up the Walt Disney anthology film Make Mine Music in 1946.

JFandAB
Johnny Fedora and Alice Bluebonnet

 

Susie the Little Blue Coupe is a stand alone animated short released in 1952. It is narrated by Sterling Holloway. Susie is a small coupe and is purchased by a wealthy man. She is battered over time and traded in. Residing in a junkyard seems to be her permanent fate. Finally, a young man finds her and restores her to a sleek and fine hot rod.

Susie the Little Blue Coupe
Susie the Little Blue Coupe

Susie the Little Blue Coupe animation cel

Susie the Little Blue Coupe served as inspiration for the Disney Pixar film Cars in 2006.

Winsor McCay

Winsor McCay and Little Nemo

Rob Jaiven

Winsor McCay was an American comic cartoonist and animator. Winsor McCay lived from 1867 to 1934. He can be considered the true father of the cartoons we have watched and loved for over 100 years.

Winsor McCay began illustrating newspapers and magazines in 1898. He began working for the New York Herald in 1903. He first created the comic strips Little Sammy Sneeze and Dreams of the Rarebit Fiend. Then in 1905 Winsor McCay began his most famous comic strip: Little Nemo in Slumberland. This was a fantasy in Art Nouveau style. It wonderfully showcased McCay’s strong graphic sense and mastery of color and linear perspective. Winsor McCay experimented with the formal elements of the comic strip page.  He arranged and sized panels to increase impact and enhance elements of the narrative.

Winsor McCay was an early animation pioneer. Between 1911 and 1921 McCay self-financed and animated ten films. His first foray into animation was taken from his Little Nemo in Slumberland comic strip. James Stuart Blackton and Winsor McCay directed a ten-minute short film based on the comic strip, of which two minutes were animated. The film was first released on April 8, 1911. The first animated effort of McCay, it later achieved the status of an early animated classic. Its on screen title is Winsor McCay, the Famous Cartoonist of the N.Y. Herald and his Moving Comics. It is usually referred to as Little Nemo. This version was named to the National Film Registry in December 2009. The two animated minutes told a story and had known characters. While it is not the first piece of animated film, it can be considered the first real cartoon. This poster seen below is really the very first cartoon movie poster in history.

McCay

 

http://animationartstudio.com/animation-art/little-nemo-cartoon-movie-poster-1911

Winsor McCay produced other cartoons including Gertie the Dinosaur in 1914 and The Sinking of the Lusitania in 1918. He inspired and influenced Walt Disney and most other animators for the next 100 years.