Walt Disney drew inspiration from the world around him and created his work from the premise of what hadn’t been done before, ensuring his audience a new and exciting experience at the cinema.
“Nobody could pitch a film as good as Walt.” Eric Goldberg – Disney Animator.
Behind-the-scenes collaboration began in the Walt Disney studios in 1940, at a time when hopes were high and the country was prospering. The making of Bambi commenced in epic proportions, boasting consultations with some of the world’s finest crew, including classically trained artist and renowned animal draftsman, Rico LeBrun. His work complimented animator, Marc Davis’ ability to convey human emotions and enhance the spirit of reality captured in fantasy, bringing animal caricatures to life through the craftsmanship and magic of animation.
“Walt Disney was a great collaborator, continuously thinking of how to make the best use of the artists on his staff.” JB Kaufman – Disney Historian.
After the outbreak of war in 1941, confidence was down and finances were reigned in, affecting the anticipated funds available for this lavish production and a more modest film was released in 1942.
“Things happen and we must make the best of them. It’s the way of the world, the way of life”. Walt Disney
A stunning music score replaces much of the dialogue, adding character and intrigue to Bambi’s journey of wonder, delight, fear, danger, joy and friendship. Colour and imagery enhance the mood, while raindrops ‘sing’ and music illuminates the sky, transporting us along the cycles and seasons of life and the natural adventures of a deer in the forest.
Disneys top five animation features:
Snow White
Fantasia
Pinocchio
Dumbo
Bambi
The creators of Bambi want the audience to come away feeling a sense of rapport, having just made friends with the characters. I hope you get to make friends with Bambi sometime soon, just as I did!
I leave you with these inspiring words from a song for Bambi…
With the healing of a heart
The hillsides grow green
The soils rich and dark
There’s a clear running stream
And the past fades away
With the melting of snow
Spirits lift up
And wild flowers grow
With the healing of a heart
Stars align in heaven
Love lights the dark
With the healing of just one heart
Just one heart
And with the healing of a heart
The whole world springs anew
Fresh as forgiveness
Sweet as the words I love ya
I love ya
It’s just a word to sing
I’ve been waiting, I’ve been waiting
For a brand new day
With the healing of a heart
Stars align in heaven
Love lights the dark
With the healing of just one heart
Love lights the dark
© Patricia Herreen 2013