Frank And Ollie

“Frank and Ollie” is a documentary film released in 1995 that tells the story of two legendary Disney animators, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston. The film is a heartfelt tribute to their friendship and their significant contributions to the art of animation at Walt Disney Studios.

Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston were part of the core group of animators known as “Disney’s Nine Old Men,” a term coined by Walt Disney himself to refer to the key animators who were instrumental in shaping the Disney animation legacy. They worked together on many classic Disney animated films, including “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Pinocchio,” “Bambi,” “Cinderella,” “Peter Pan,” and “The Jungle Book.”

The documentary, directed by Theodore Thomas (son of Frank Thomas), combines interviews, archival footage, and animation clips to provide an intimate portrait of these two talented animators. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the film delves into their passion for animation, the challenges they faced during their careers, and their remarkable ability to breathe life into animated characters.

“Frank and Ollie” showcases the duo’s unique artistic approach and the way they brought depth and emotion to their animated characters. Their work significantly impacted the evolution of animation as an art form, and they became mentors to a new generation of animators at Disney and beyond.

The film also explores their enduring friendship, which began during their time at Stanford University and continued throughout their lives. Their camaraderie and collaboration were essential to their success as animators, and the documentary portrays the genuine bond they shared.

“Frank and Ollie” received critical acclaim for its touching portrayal of the lives and careers of these influential animators. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of some of Disney’s most beloved films and offers a glimpse into the world of animation.

The documentary serves as a reminder of the impact that animation can have on audiences and pays tribute to the artistry and dedication of two Disney legends. “Frank and Ollie” stands as a heartfelt tribute to these two remarkable individuals who left an indelible mark on the world of animation and continues to inspire animators and animation enthusiasts worldwide.

Fun Facts

• Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston were two of Walt Disney’s “Nine Old Men,” a group of core animators who played a significant role in shaping Disney animation. They were known for their exceptional talent and contributions to classic Disney films.
• Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston were lifelong friends and collaborators. They first met at Stanford University and later joined Disney in the early 1930s. Their friendship and partnership lasted throughout their careers, and they often worked together on various Disney projects.
• Both Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston worked on iconic Disney characters. Frank Thomas was responsible for animating characters like Bambi, Lady, Captain Hook, and others. Ollie Johnston is known for his work on characters like Thumper, Mr. Smee, and Prince John. Their dedication to character animation left a lasting impact on the art of animation.