Disney and Pixar, two powerhouses of the animation industry, have collaborated on numerous films over the years. But, did you know that Disney actually helped Pixar with the production of their first-ever feature film, Toy Story? In this article, we’ll explore the untold story of how Disney supported Pixar’s Toy Story and how this collaboration set the stage for a long and successful partnership between the two studios. So, buckle up and get ready to unveil the secrets behind this iconic film!
The Inception of Toy Story: A Collaborative Effort
The Birth of a New Era in Animation
The dawn of the 1990s witnessed a revolution in the world of animation, with Pixar’s Toy Story leading the charge. The film marked a turning point in the industry, bringing to life characters that were previously limited to the realm of two-dimensional illustrations. This groundbreaking movie, born out of a unique collaboration between Disney and Pixar, forever changed the way animations were made and perceived.
Toy Story was a milestone in computer-generated animation, as it utilized cutting-edge technology to create an engaging story that resonated with audiences of all ages. The film’s pioneering techniques included the development of sophisticated software that allowed for greater flexibility in character design and movement. The combination of captivating storytelling and innovative technology made Toy Story a cinematic game-changer, opening doors for future generations of animators and filmmakers.
In addition to the technical advancements, Toy Story also boasted a talented cast of voice actors, including Tom Hanks and Tim Allen, who brought the characters to life with their performances. The film’s timeless themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of play resonated with viewers, making it a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.
Toy Story’s impact on the animation industry cannot be overstated. It served as a catalyst for further advancements in computer-generated animation, inspiring other studios to invest in the development of new technologies and techniques. The film’s enormous success also led to a surge in demand for animated films, with many studios scrambling to replicate Pixar’s achievement.
The legacy of Toy Story extends far beyond its immediate impact on the animation industry. It has become a cultural touchstone, a film that has captivated audiences for decades and continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and artists. Its enduring popularity and lasting influence make it a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the boundless potential of animation as an art form.
Pixar’s Vision for a Groundbreaking Film
In the early 1990s, Pixar was on a mission to create a feature-length animated film that would push the boundaries of animation technology and storytelling. The company had already made a name for itself with its critically acclaimed short films, but it was eager to take on a feature-length project that would showcase its talents and establish it as a major player in the animation industry.
To achieve this goal, Pixar assembled a team of talented artists, animators, and technicians, led by director John Lasseter, who had a clear vision for the film. Lasseter, who had previously worked at Disney, wanted to create a film that would combine cutting-edge computer animation with a compelling story that would appeal to both children and adults. He was inspired by the idea of a toy coming to life and embarking on adventures, and he enlisted the help of screenwriter Joss Whedon to develop the story.
The story that emerged was that of a cowboy toy named Woody, who was voiced by Tom Hanks, and his space ranger toy friend, Buzz Lightyear, who was voiced by Tim Allen. Woody and Buzz were initially rivals, but they eventually became friends and embarked on a series of adventures together. The film was packed with humor, action, and heart, and it was clear that Pixar had something special on its hands.
But Pixar faced a major challenge in bringing its vision to life. At the time, computer animation was still in its infancy, and there were few tools available to create the kind of detailed, lifelike characters and environments that Pixar wanted to achieve. The company had to develop its own software and hardware, including a revolutionary new system called RenderMan, which allowed animators to create realistic lighting and shadows in their scenes.
Despite these challenges, Pixar remained committed to its vision, and it poured millions of dollars into the development of Toy Story. The company also faced pressure from Disney, which had agreed to distribute the film, to make changes to the story and characters. But Lasseter and his team stood firm, insisting that they wanted to create a film that would be true to their vision and that would stand the test of time.
In the end, Pixar’s gamble paid off. Toy Story was a critical and commercial success, and it paved the way for a new era of computer-animated films. It also marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration between Pixar and Disney, which would go on to produce some of the most beloved animated films of all time.
The Road to Production: Challenges and Triumphs
The success of Toy Story, the first computer-animated feature film, revolutionized the animation industry and had a lasting impact on popular culture. The film’s groundbreaking technology, innovative storytelling, and relatable characters paved the way for a new era of animation and inspired other studios to invest in the development of new technologies and techniques. The film’s timeless themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of play resonated with viewers, making it a beloved classic that has captivated audiences for decades and continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and artists.
The Collaboration Continues: Disney’s Involvement in Toy Story
Despite the success of the initial collaboration between Pixar and Disney, the relationship between the two studios was not without its challenges. As the production of Toy Story progressed, it became clear that the two companies had different visions for the film’s marketing and distribution. Disney, with its established brand and distribution network, wanted to take the lead in promoting the film and maximizing its box office potential. Pixar, on the other hand, was more focused on the creative aspects of the production and was wary of being overshadowed by Disney’s marketing machine.
However, the two companies were able to overcome these challenges and work together to ensure the success of Toy Story. Disney provided significant financial support for the production, while Pixar brought its expertise in computer animation and storytelling to the project. The collaboration resulted in a groundbreaking film that set a new standard for computer-animated movies and established Pixar as a major player in the animation industry.
Disney’s involvement in Toy Story did not end with the production of the film. The company also played a key role in the marketing and distribution of the film, leveraging its vast resources and experience to help promote the movie and ensure its success. Disney’s marketing campaign for Toy Story was extensive and included tie-ins with popular toy brands, merchandise licensing deals, and extensive advertising and promotional efforts.
The collaboration between Pixar and Disney on Toy Story was a turning point for both companies and set the stage for a long and successful partnership. The success of the film not only cemented Pixar’s reputation as a leader in computer animation but also helped to revitalize Disney’s animation division and pave the way for future collaborations between the two studios.
Overcoming Creative Differences and Technical Hurdles
While the collaboration between Disney and Pixar was a significant milestone in the animation industry, it was not without its challenges. The production of Toy Story required the convergence of two distinct creative visions, and overcoming these differences was crucial to the success of the film. In this section, we will delve into the intricacies of how Disney and Pixar navigated the complexities of creative differences and technical hurdles to bring Toy Story to life.
Navigating Creative Differences
The first major challenge faced by the Toy Story production team was reconciling the different creative visions of Disney and Pixar. While Disney had a rich history of storytelling and a strong brand identity, Pixar was a relatively new player in the animation industry, with a unique style and approach to storytelling. The initial concept for Toy Story was a departure from Disney’s traditional storytelling style, and this posed a significant challenge in terms of finding common ground between the two studios.
To overcome this challenge, Disney and Pixar formed a collaborative team that included representatives from both studios. This team worked together to ensure that both creative visions were represented in the final product. One of the key strategies employed by the team was to leverage the strengths of both studios while minimizing their weaknesses. For example, Disney brought its expertise in traditional storytelling and character development, while Pixar contributed its innovative animation techniques and technological prowess.
Another strategy employed by the team was to ensure that there was a clear line of communication between the two studios. Regular meetings and discussions were held to ensure that both parties were on the same page, and any differences in creative vision were addressed in a constructive manner. This collaborative approach helped to build trust between the two studios and paved the way for a more fruitful partnership in the future.
Conquering Technical Hurdles
In addition to creative differences, the production of Toy Story also faced several technical hurdles. The use of computer-generated animation was a relatively new concept at the time, and there were many uncertainties surrounding the technology. The production team had to navigate a range of technical challenges, including developing new software and hardware, overcoming limitations in computer processing power, and ensuring that the final product met the high standards of both Disney and Pixar.
To tackle these technical challenges, the production team drew on the expertise of some of the most talented engineers and technicians in the industry. They worked tirelessly to develop new software and hardware that would enable them to create the highly realistic and engaging animation that audiences have come to expect from Pixar films. Additionally, the team worked closely with hardware manufacturers to ensure that the necessary hardware was available to support the production process.
Despite these challenges, the production team remained committed to achieving their vision for Toy Story. They were driven by a shared passion for creating something truly unique and groundbreaking, and this dedication was reflected in the final product. The seamless integration of computer-generated animation with traditional storytelling techniques set a new standard for the animation industry, and the success of Toy Story paved the way for a new era of collaboration between Disney and Pixar.
Bringing the Characters to Life: Voice Casting and Design
The Talented Voice Actors Behind the Iconic Characters
Pixar’s Toy Story revolutionized the animation industry and introduced a new era of computer-animated films. The success of the movie was largely due to the incredible voice acting that brought the characters to life. Let’s take a closer look at the talented voice actors behind the iconic characters of Toy Story.
Tom Hanks as Woody
Tom Hanks, the legendary actor known for his roles in Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan, provided the voice for Woody, the cowboy doll and leader of the toys. Hanks’ deep, resonant voice brought a sense of wisdom and leadership to the character, making Woody a beloved and relatable character for audiences of all ages.
Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear
Tim Allen, the actor known for his roles in The Santa Clause and Home Improvement, provided the voice for Buzz Lightyear, the space ranger action figure. Allen’s energetic and enthusiastic voice perfectly captured the naivety and excitement of Buzz, making him a fan favorite and an iconic character in popular culture.
Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head
Don Rickles, the legendary comedian known for his roles in Casino and The Money Pit, provided the voice for Mr. Potato Head, the sarcastic and grumpy anthropomorphic potato. Rickles’ quick wit and sassy delivery added depth and personality to the character, making Mr. Potato Head a scene-stealing and hilarious addition to the Toy Story cast.
Jim Varney as Slinky Dog
Jim Varney, the actor known for his roles in Ernest movies and The Beverly Hillbillies, provided the voice for Slinky Dog, the loyal and playful dachshund-like toy. Varney’s warm and playful voice brought a sense of joy and excitement to the character, making Slinky Dog a beloved and lovable companion to the other toys.
Wallace Shawn as Rex
Wallace Shawn, the actor known for his roles in The Princess Bride and Clueless, provided the voice for Rex, the nervous and jittery dinosaur toy. Shawn’s high-pitched and anxious voice perfectly captured the character’s anxiety and fear, making Rex a relatable and sympathetic character that audiences could root for.
John Ratzenberger as Hamm
John Ratzenberger, the actor known for his roles in Cheers and The Incredibles, provided the voice for Hamm, the piggy bank and business-savvy toy. Ratzenberger’s gruff and no-nonsense voice brought a sense of intelligence and resourcefulness to the character, making Hamm a valuable and important member of the Toy Story team.
Overall, the voice acting in Toy Story was nothing short of brilliant, with each actor bringing their unique style and personality to their respective characters. The result was a cast of lovable and relatable characters that audiences have come to know and love over the years.
The Influence of Disney’s Rich Animated History
Disney’s animated films have been a cornerstone of American popular culture for generations. With classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and The Lion King, Disney has mastered the art of bringing beloved characters to life on the big screen. It is no surprise, then, that when it came time to cast the voices for Pixar’s groundbreaking Toy Story, Disney’s rich animated history played a significant role in the selection process.
One of the most crucial factors in choosing the voice cast for Toy Story was ensuring that the actors brought a certain level of warmth and charm to their respective characters. Tom Hanks, who provided the voice of Woody, was a natural choice for the role due to his likable on-screen persona. Tim Allen, who portrayed Buzz Lightyear, brought a level of energy and excitement to the character that perfectly matched his on-screen antics.
However, the casting of Toy Story also looked beyond just the individual performances of the actors. The film’s creators wanted to create a sense of continuity and familiarity with Disney’s past animated films. By selecting actors who had previously appeared in Disney films, the filmmakers hoped to tap into the nostalgia and warmth that audiences associate with the studio.
In addition to the main voice cast, the film also featured a number of smaller roles that were voiced by Disney legends. Actors like Don Rickles, who played Mr. Potato Head, and Jim Varney, who portrayed Slinky Dog, brought their own unique styles to their respective characters. These actors were beloved by audiences for their work in Disney’s animated films, and their presence in Toy Story added a level of comfort and familiarity to the film.
Ultimately, the influence of Disney’s rich animated history can be seen throughout Toy Story. From the selection of voice actors to the design of the characters, the filmmakers sought to tap into the nostalgia and warmth that audiences associate with Disney’s past films. By doing so, they created a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences of all ages.
Marketing and Merchandise: Toy Story’s Impact on Pop Culture
The Launch of a Global Phenomenon
In 1995, when Toy Story was released, it was a groundbreaking moment in the history of animation. The film was not only a critical success but also a commercial hit, earning over $360 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time.
Toy Story’s impact on pop culture was immense. The film’s release was accompanied by an extensive marketing campaign that included TV spots, print ads, and billboards. The marketing efforts were focused on creating a buzz around the film, positioning it as a must-see movie for both children and adults.
One of the most effective marketing strategies was the launch of the film’s merchandise. Toy Story action figures, toys, and other merchandise were made available before the film’s release, generating excitement among fans and creating a sense of anticipation for the movie. The merchandise was designed to appeal to both children and adults, with high-quality products that captured the essence of the film.
The film’s success also led to a range of licensing deals, with Toy Story merchandise appearing in stores across the world. From fast-food promotions to clothing lines, Toy Story became a cultural phenomenon that transcended the boundaries of cinema.
In addition to its commercial success, Toy Story also had a significant impact on the animation industry. The film’s innovative use of computer-generated animation inspired a new generation of animators and filmmakers, paving the way for a new era of animated films.
Overall, the launch of Toy Story was a defining moment in the history of animation and pop culture. The film’s success marked the beginning of a new era in cinema, and its impact can still be felt today.
The Creation of Toy Story Toys and Merchandise
Toy Story was released in 1995, and its success in the box office led to the creation of toys and merchandise based on the film. Disney and Pixar teamed up with Mattel to produce a line of Toy Story action figures, playsets, and other toys. The toys were designed to replicate the characters and scenes from the movie, and they were an instant hit with children and collectors alike.
In addition to the toys, Toy Story merchandise included clothing, bedding, and other household items featuring the characters and logo. The film’s popularity also led to the creation of theme park attractions and live shows at Disney parks around the world.
The success of the Toy Story merchandise helped to further cement the film’s place in pop culture. It also demonstrated the potential for merchandising and licensing deals between Disney and Pixar, paving the way for future collaborations and successes.
The Sequel: Building on Success
Toy Story 2: An Unlikely Sequel
While the first Toy Story film was a critical and commercial success, the idea of a sequel was not initially considered. However, after the box office failure of Pixar’s next two films, A Bug’s Life and Toy Story, the company was in need of a hit. The decision was made to develop a sequel to Toy Story, which would build on the success of the original film and continue the story of Woody and Buzz Lightyear.
Toy Story 2 was directed by John Lasseter, who also directed the first film. The story followed Woody, who was mistakenly believed to be a defective toy and was sent to a daycare center. Woody, with the help of Buzz Lightyear and other toys, set out to prove his worth and return home to Andy.
The film faced a number of challenges during production, including a limited budget and a tight deadline. Despite these challenges, Toy Story 2 was released in 1999 to critical acclaim and box office success. The film grossed over $485 million worldwide and became the highest-grossing animated film of all time at the time.
Toy Story 2 also marked a turning point for Pixar, as it proved that the company could create successful sequels and continue to build on its existing franchises. This was important for the future of the company, as it would eventually lead to the creation of further Toy Story films and other successful franchises such as Cars and Monsters, Inc.
Pixar’s Evolution and Disney’s Involvement in the Sequel’s Production
After the unprecedented success of Toy Story, Pixar was eager to continue pushing the boundaries of computer-animated filmmaking. Disney, recognizing the potential of this new medium, provided the necessary support and resources for Pixar to create a sequel that would not only live up to the original but also surpass it.
Pixar’s Evolution:
Prior to the release of Toy Story, Pixar had already developed several short films that showcased their animation capabilities. These shorts, including “The Adventures of André and Wally B,” “Crush,” and “Geri’s Game,” were well-received by audiences and served as stepping stones towards the creation of Toy Story.
The company’s dedication to technological advancements was evident in their work, with each project bringing them closer to achieving the level of realism and storytelling that would become synonymous with Pixar. The development of the Pixar Image Computer (PIC) was a crucial milestone in their journey, as it allowed for the creation of more complex and detailed computer-generated imagery.
Disney’s Involvement:
With the success of Toy Story, Disney recognized the potential of computer-animated films and sought to collaborate with Pixar on future projects. In 1991, Disney purchased a significant stake in Pixar, and the two companies entered into a co-production agreement for a sequel to Toy Story.
Disney’s involvement extended beyond mere financial support. The company provided valuable resources, such as access to cutting-edge technology and a larger network of industry professionals. Disney’s animation legacy, with its rich history of storytelling and character development, also offered invaluable guidance to Pixar as they worked on the sequel.
The partnership between Pixar and Disney was crucial in ensuring the success of Toy Story 2. Disney’s distribution and marketing expertise, combined with Pixar’s technical innovations and storytelling prowess, created a formidable collaboration that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in computer-animated filmmaking.
Legacy and Impact: The Lasting Influence of Toy Story
Toy Story’s Impact on the Animation Industry
Toy Story’s release in 1995 marked a turning point in the animation industry. It was the first fully computer-animated feature film, and its success paved the way for a new era of animation. The film’s groundbreaking technology and innovative storytelling techniques revolutionized the industry, and its impact can still be felt today.
Here are some of the ways Toy Story changed the animation industry:
- Paved the way for computer-animated films: Before Toy Story, animated films were primarily hand-drawn. Toy Story’s success proved that computer-animated films could be just as successful, if not more so, than traditional hand-drawn animation. This led to a surge in computer-animated films, with many studios following in Pixar’s footsteps.
- Improved technology: Toy Story’s success also led to advancements in animation technology. Pixar’s in-house software, called “Presto,” was used to create the film’s animation. The success of the film and the advancements in technology made it possible for future Pixar films to be created with even more advanced software.
- Changed storytelling techniques: Toy Story’s success also led to changes in storytelling techniques in the animation industry. The film’s characters were given more depth and complexity than in previous animated films, and this new approach to storytelling became the standard for future animated films.
- Created new opportunities for animators: Toy Story’s success created new opportunities for animators. The film proved that computer-animated films could be successful, which led to more job opportunities in the field. Additionally, the success of the film led to the creation of new animation studios, such as DreamWorks Animation and Blue Sky Studios.
Overall, Toy Story’s impact on the animation industry cannot be overstated. The film’s success paved the way for a new era of animation, and its innovative technology and storytelling techniques continue to influence the industry today.
The Enduring Appeal of the Toy Story Franchise
Despite being released over two decades ago, the Toy Story franchise continues to captivate audiences of all ages. The enduring appeal of the franchise can be attributed to several factors, including its timeless themes, relatable characters, and innovative animation techniques.
- Timeless Themes: The themes explored in the Toy Story franchise, such as friendship, loyalty, and growing up, resonate with audiences of all ages. These themes are universal and transcend cultural and generational boundaries, making the franchise relatable to a wide range of audiences.
- Relatable Characters: The characters in the Toy Story franchise are relatable and multidimensional, with complex emotions and motivations. Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the toys are all flawed, but their vulnerabilities make them endearing and relatable to audiences. The characters’ struggles with their own identities and their relationships with each other also resonate with viewers, who may find themselves reflected in the characters’ experiences.
- Innovative Animation Techniques: The Toy Story franchise was groundbreaking in its use of computer-generated animation, which allowed for more realistic and nuanced character movements and expressions. The franchise’s use of CGI animation set a new standard for animated films and influenced subsequent animated movies.
These factors have contributed to the franchise’s enduring appeal, ensuring that it remains a beloved classic for generations to come.
The Enduring Partnership Between Disney and Pixar
In the aftermath of the success of Toy Story, Disney recognized the potential of the new partnership with Pixar and made a strategic decision to continue supporting the company. The two companies entered into a unique agreement, where Disney provided funding for Pixar’s feature film projects in exchange for the right to distribute and market the films. This collaboration enabled Pixar to continue creating groundbreaking animated films while benefiting from Disney’s marketing and distribution resources.
Disney’s investment in Pixar not only allowed the animation studio to produce more films but also gave it the financial stability to innovate and experiment with new animation techniques. The collaboration between the two companies fostered an environment of creativity and innovation, resulting in a string of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films that have since become part of the modern animation canon.
Moreover, the partnership between Disney and Pixar extended beyond the production and distribution of films. The two companies also collaborated on theme park attractions, such as the “Toy Story Mania!” ride at Disney’s California Adventure and the “Toy Story Land” at Disney World in Florida. These attractions showcased the synergy between the creative vision of Pixar and the theme park expertise of Disney, resulting in immersive and engaging experiences for visitors.
The enduring partnership between Disney and Pixar has not only revolutionized the animation industry but has also yielded significant financial benefits for both companies. The continued success of their collaborative efforts has solidified the relationship between the two giants of the entertainment world, ensuring that their combined creative talents will continue to shape the future of animation for years to come.
The Lasting Legacy of Toy Story
The Lasting Legacy of Toy Story: An Enduring Impact on the Film Industry and Popular Culture
- Groundbreaking Technological Advancements
- RenderMan: A powerful rendering software developed by Pixar that revolutionized the animation industry by enabling realistic lighting and textures.
- Development of the first fully 3D-animated feature film: Toy Story set a new standard for animation and opened up new possibilities for storytelling.
- Revitalization of the Animation Industry
- The success of Toy Story sparked a new era of animation, leading to increased investment in computer-animated films and the emergence of new animation studios.
- It demonstrated the potential of computer-generated imagery (CGI) and encouraged filmmakers to explore new creative possibilities with the technology.
- Shift in Storytelling and Character Development
- The film’s emotional depth and relatable characters challenged traditional storytelling norms, leading to more complex and multi-layered narratives in subsequent animated films.
- Toy Story’s exploration of themes such as friendship, loyalty, and growth inspired other animated films to delve into deeper, more mature themes.
- Influence on the Disney-Pixar Partnership
- The success of Toy Story led to Disney’s acquisition of Pixar in 2006, solidifying the two companies’ partnership and paving the way for future collaborations such as the critically acclaimed films, Coco and Finding Nemo.
- The collaboration between Disney and Pixar has since produced numerous successful animated films, cementing their position as leaders in the animation industry.
- Toy Story’s Enduring Popularity and Cultural Impact
- The Toy Story franchise has since spawned three additional films, with each entry consistently receiving critical acclaim and commercial success.
- The films have become a beloved part of popular culture, with iconic characters such as Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie resonating with audiences of all ages.
- The Toy Story films have also inspired spin-off merchandise, theme park attractions, and even a stage musical, further solidifying their lasting impact on popular culture.
FAQs
1. Did Disney help Pixar with Toy Story?
Answer:
Yes, Disney played a significant role in the production of Toy Story. While Pixar was the primary animation studio behind the film, Disney provided key resources and support that were crucial to the film’s success. Disney distributed the film and contributed marketing resources, while also providing technical assistance in areas such as visual effects and sound design. Additionally, Disney’s experience in the animation industry proved valuable to Pixar as they navigated the challenges of creating the first-ever computer-animated feature film.
2. How did Disney support Pixar in the making of Toy Story?
Disney provided Pixar with crucial support in various aspects of the film’s production. Disney distributed Toy Story in theaters and contributed significantly to the film’s marketing budget, which helped raise awareness and generate excitement for the film. Disney also offered technical assistance to Pixar, particularly in the areas of visual effects and sound design. The company’s experienced animators and technicians provided valuable insights and guidance to Pixar as they developed new animation software and techniques.
3. Was Toy Story a joint production between Disney and Pixar?
While Disney and Pixar collaborated on the production of Toy Story, the film was primarily produced by Pixar. Disney served as the distributor for the film and provided support in areas such as marketing and technical assistance, but Pixar was responsible for the creative direction and production of the film. This collaboration marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership between the two companies, with subsequent Pixar films being distributed by Disney.
4. How significant was Disney’s contribution to Toy Story’s success?
Disney’s contribution to Toy Story’s success was significant in several ways. The company’s marketing support helped raise awareness and generate excitement for the film, which was crucial in attracting audiences to theaters. Disney’s experience in the animation industry also proved valuable to Pixar as they navigated the challenges of creating the first-ever computer-animated feature film. Additionally, Disney’s technical assistance in areas such as visual effects and sound design helped enhance the overall quality of the film.
5. Did the collaboration between Disney and Pixar continue after Toy Story?
Yes, the collaboration between Disney and Pixar continued after the release of Toy Story. Disney distributed all of Pixar’s subsequent films, including A Bug’s Life, Toy Story 2, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, and Cars. In 2006, Disney acquired Pixar in a landmark deal that transformed the animation industry and led to the creation of some of the most successful animated films of all time, including Frozen, Moana, and Zootopia.
