Most biographies of Walt Disney cover the full span of his life and the full history of his studio, from its start in 1923 until his death in 1966. However, these books, while broad, often give very little detail in the way of the production of its famous films, the operation of its studio, or its major accomplishments. How Walt Disney Changed Animation Forever instead focuses on a key period of the growth, innovation, and eclipsing popularity of the Walt Disney Studio, intertwining its narrative history with the historical context of the 1920s-1950s and the daily life of its founder. Based upon years of historical research including recollections by prominent Disney artists and on-the-ground, in-person experiences at key locations from Disney history, How Walt Disney Changed Animation Forever describes the global impact the studio had on how films were produced for decades to come.
This book by Andrew Stanley Kiste will be published October 30, 2025. Pen and Sword provided an early galley for review.
Regulars know I grew up on Disney and have read a number of books about the man, the studio, the films and the parks. Time to check out another.
Right out of the gate, Kiste makes it known that everything he included came from factual information. I do appreciate a well-researched nonfiction book. I enjoyed the indepth discussion of the creative process and the business dealings that took place to get the first cartoons seen by the public. These behind the scenes details will appeal to anyone who is interested in the early decades of film and Hollywood.
Of course, there is lots of discussion on the making of the earliest (and now classic) full-length animated features: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia and so many more. It was interesting to learn that several films had rpugh roads to release and that not all were well-received on their first theater runs.
The appendix at the end, summarizing awards nominations and wins, and the many pages of supporting pictures were a welcome bonus to tie the package together.
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