Walt Disney has greenlit two new 3D projects from LILO & STITCH creator Chris Sanders and veteran animator Glen Keane. Carolyn Soper, vp of production for Walt Disney Feature Animation, briefly discussed the projects at a Producers Guild function on Nov. 6, 2003.
Soper said that Sanders is writing the script for AN AMERICAN DOG. She added that Keanes project RAPUNZEL UNBRAIDED was just recently given the go-ahead. The company had asked Keane to develop a 3D fairy tale, which at first the 2D vet was reluctant to do. However, Keanes willingness to try the new medium by approaching it from a different perspective, allowed Keane and the other 3D artists to share ideas and learn new angles to approach the new project. The rest is history. Plots for the two features have not been released.
Disney is in production on its first 3D feature CHICKEN LITTLE, which is scheduled to reach theaters in 2005. Mark Dindal (EMPERORS NEW GROOVE, CATS DONT DANCE) is serving as director. Following up that project will be MULAN director Barry Cooks 3D feature MY PEOPLES, a bluegrass musical that centers on a folk art puppet version of Abraham Lincoln made out of an old push broom.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
