“I started, actually, to make my first animated cartoon in 1920. Of course, they were very crude things then and I used sort of little puppet things.”
- December 5, 1901 – December 15, 1966
- Born in the United States
- Animator, film director, entrepreneur, producer
- Best known as the creator of Mickey Mouse, he established the animation film industry. As the founder of Disneyland, he is globally recognized as an iconic figure in the world of entertainment.
Quote
“I started, actually, to make my first animated cartoon in 1920. Of course, they were very crude things then and I used sort of little puppet things.”
Explanation
This quote provides a glimpse into Walt Disney’s early beginnings in animation, showcasing his pioneering spirit and determination to create something new despite limited resources. In 1920, Disney began experimenting with animation, a medium that was still in its infancy. The “crude” nature of his first attempts reflects the early stages of animation, where techniques and technology were not as advanced as they would later become. The use of puppets in his first works also hints at his innovative approach—he was not just relying on traditional animation methods but was exploring new ways to bring characters to life. This experimentation laid the foundation for the world-changing animation that would follow, such as Mickey Mouse and later, feature-length animated films.
Historically, Disney’s journey from these early attempts to the creation of Mickey Mouse in 1928 exemplifies his relentless drive for improvement and innovation. At the time, animation was a novel medium, and many creators were experimenting with different techniques. Disney’s early cartoons, such as “Alice’s Wonderland” and his “Laugh-O-Grams”, marked his first steps toward refining animation into an art form that could appeal to both children and adults. His willingness to embrace crudeness and imperfections in the early years was key to his eventual success, as it reflected his commitment to learning and evolving as an artist.
In the modern context, this quote serves as a reminder of how far the medium of animation has come since the 1920s. Today, animation is a highly sophisticated art form, with digital tools and cutting-edge technology enabling incredibly detailed and realistic animations. However, Disney’s early experiences with crude, puppet-like animations highlight the importance of starting small and embracing imperfections as part of the creative process. His success story continues to inspire animators and creators, emphasizing that innovation often begins with humble beginnings and a willingness to experiment.
