UPDATE: The new documentary, Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There, has just premiered, shedding light on the life and career of animator Don Bluth, a pivotal figure who challenged Disney’s animation dominance in the 1980s. The film, directed by Chad N. Walker and Dave LaMattina, dives into Bluth’s journey from a Disney employee to a fierce competitor, confronting the industry’s Goliath head-on.
This documentary is crucial for animation enthusiasts as it captures Bluth’s uncompromising vision during a transformative period. As Disney struggled following the death of Walt Disney and faced creative stagnation, Bluth took a bold step by founding Don Bluth Entertainment in response. His first major success, The Secret of NIMH, demonstrated that animation could evolve beyond Disney’s traditional storytelling, garnering respect and igniting a competitive spirit.
Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There begins with Bluth’s departure from Disney, framing it as a healthy rivalry rather than mere competition. While his early works faced challenges, Bluth’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of animation led to notable projects like An American Tail and Anastasia. In candid interviews, Bluth discusses the obstacles he faced, including financial struggles that forced his studio to relocate to Ireland.
The film reveals Bluth’s innovative contributions to video games, including pioneering titles like Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace, which introduced high-quality animation to arcades at a time when the medium was evolving. Despite his successes, Bluth reflects on the need for stronger scripts, a gap that ultimately impacted his studio’s legacy.
While the documentary provides a compelling overview of Bluth’s career, it also raises questions about his personal life. Viewers get glimpses of his challenging upbringing and the influence of his Mormon faith on his work. However, the film briefly skips over significant time periods, leaving audiences wanting more insight into Bluth’s personal journey and the evolution of his artistry.
As the documentary concludes, Bluth expresses gratitude for his experiences and a renewed passion for storytelling, particularly in theater. His story resonates with many as he articulates the pressures of competing against a titan like Disney, yet remains optimistic about the future of animation, foreseeing new studios emerging to drive innovation.
Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There is a must-see for those interested in the evolution of animation and the relentless spirit of creativity that defines it. This documentary not only honors Bluth’s contributions but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of animators.
Stay tuned for further developments on this documentary’s impact and discussions surrounding Bluth’s legacy in the animation world.
