Fantasia 2000
Released: December 17, 1999
As mentioned earlier, I am a big fan of both Fantasia films. The visual beauty drawn on the big screen without any spoken dialogue combined with some of the best classical music of the time comes together to evoke an emotional story that is not only intriguing but pure escapism. Fantasia 2000 ends with Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite, a visual interpretation of life, death and renewal set behind a backdrop of what we used to know as Mount St. Helens. In classic Disney fantasy style, the animators combine mythology with nature in their interpretation of that fateful event.
The Sprite fairy which takes many different forms as the story progresses, carries the emotion, passion and heart throughout the film segment. Starting off as the spring fairy where she brings to life the natural world awaiting her touch, she transforms to portray the seasons, weather and life-force that we see all around us in nature. Animators captured a bit of whimsy and perhaps an Art Deco design in their portrayal of the Sprite, much like the manner that was often characterized by a well known 19th century children’s illustrator, Arthur Rackham. The Sprite comes to life on screen in an art nouveau freshness with a child-like innocence of discovery and then is transformed by the Phoenix into a gossamer existence.
Original production maquette, cast resin with primer paint
Sculptor: Kent Melton
Reproduction Artist: Doug Hild
After being persistent and patient over a four year period with a close animation colleague of mine, I was able to acquire this wonderful maquette from Sprite animator David Zabowski’s personal collection. Sculpted by Kent Melton for animator reference, the maquette’s position as shown portrays the energy of the Sprite as she is seen on screen sweeping across the forest floor bringing nature to life during the season. This maquette shows exquisite details of nature bursting full force with flowers, trees and new growth along her dress-like train.
No comments:
Post a Comment