Disney has been a cornerstone of animation for over a century, captivating audiences worldwide with its enchanting tales and memorable characters. With the recent release of Once Upon a Studio, fans were treated to a nostalgic journey that celebrated the rich history of Disney animation. The creators behind this masterpiece, Bradford Simonsen and Trent Correy, recently shared insights into the making of the short and the inspiration drawn from Disney’s illustrious past.
Dan Abraham and Trent Correy co-writers and directors of Once Upon a Studio emphasized the importance of acknowledging the legacy that paved the way for contemporary Disney animations. This sentiment resonates deeply with Disney enthusiasts who have grown up cherishing classics from Snow White to The Lion King.
Homage to the Legacy
In its magical 9 minutes, Once Upon a Studio pays homage not just to the characters but also to the artists who brought them to life. This reverence for the past is evident in every frame of the short, making it a heartfelt tribute to the animators, storytellers, and visionaries of Disney.
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“We’re standing on the shoulders of greatness. And all the different buildings, starting with the Hyperion building, there’s so much history and there’s so many people. So we focused on the characters, but we tried to also be homage to the artists as well.”
-Dan Abraham, Director & Writer-
This dedication to authenticity extended to the animation style itself, with Correy noting that while the animation is entirely new, efforts were made to ensure characters from different eras retained their distinctive looks.
“We realized you only get seconds with each character so they needed to look and sound exactly how you remember them.”
-Trent Correy, Director & Writer-
More than Nostalgia
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Once Upon a Studio is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s a testament to Disney’s enduring magic and the timeless appeal of its stories and characters. As audiences revel in the joy of seeing their favorite characters come to life once more, they are also reminded of the rich tapestry of talent and history that has made Disney the animation powerhouse it is today.
In a world where content is constantly evolving, Once Upon a Studio stands as a poignant reminder of the timeless charm of Disney and the countless memories it has created for generations. As we look forward to the future of animation, we do so with a deep appreciation for the past, thanks to the heartfelt efforts of creators like Abraham and Correy.
About Once Upon a Studio
Premiere Date: October 15, 2023
Directors: Trent Correy, Dan Abraham
Writers: Trent Correy, Dan Abraham
Producers: Yvett Merino, Bradford, Simonsen
Cinematography: John Hasbrook, Daniel Rice
Music By: Dave Metzger
Production: Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios
Distribution: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Runtime: 9 Minutes
Synopsis
An all-star ensemble of beloved characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios come together
in “Once Upon a Studio” for a joyful, entertaining and emotional reunion as they assemble for a
spectacular group photo to mark Disney’s 100th anniversary. Featuring 543 characters from
more than 85 Disney feature-length and short films, “Once Upon a Studio” welcomes heroes
and villains, princes and princesses, sidekicks and sorcerers—in all-new hand-drawn and CG
animation—to celebrate 10 decades of storytelling, artistry and technological achievements.
Written and directed by Dan Abraham and Trent Correy and produced by Yvett Merino and
Bradford Simonsen, “Once Upon a Studio” makes it broadcast debut on ABC on Oct. 15, 2023.
Are you going to watch Once Upon a Studio?Which character’s reappearance made you smile the widest? How do you think the creators balanced the old with the new in their animation styles? Which Disney classic do you hold closest to your heart and why? Dive into the conversation and share your thoughts with us on social media!
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