Behind The Magic Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs
Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs is a beloved Disney classic that has captured the hearts of generations. The film, which was released in 1937, was the first full-length animated feature film ever made. It was a monumental achievement for Disney and set the standard for animated films to come. In this article, we will take a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs and how it became the timeless classic that it is today.
The Creation Of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs
The idea for Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs came from a German fairy tale that was popularized by the Brothers Grimm. Walt Disney first encountered the tale in the early 1930s and was immediately drawn to its potential as a full-length animated feature film. At the time, the idea of an animated feature film was considered risky and unprofitable. Many industry experts believed that audiences would not sit through a feature-length cartoon. However, Disney was determined to pursue his vision.
The production of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs was a massive undertaking. It took over three years to complete and required the work of hundreds of artists, animators, and technicians. The film was also expensive to make, with a budget of approximately $1.5 million, which was an enormous sum of money at the time. Despite the risks and challenges, Disney was committed to creating a quality film that would change the course of animation history.
The Animation Process
The animation process for Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs was groundbreaking for the time. Disney and his team of animators developed a new technique called "multiplane camera," which allowed for a greater depth of field and more complex movements within scenes. This technique involved using multiple layers of artwork that could be moved independently of each other to create a three-dimensional effect. The multiplane camera was used extensively throughout the film and was a major factor in its success.
In addition to the multiplane camera, the animators also developed new techniques for character animation. They studied real-life movements and incorporated them into the characters' movements to create a more realistic and relatable feel. The animators also paid close attention to facial expressions and body language to convey emotion and personality. These techniques added a level of depth and nuance to the characters that had not been seen before in animated films.
The Voice Cast
The voice cast of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs was a crucial element in bringing the characters to life. Disney took great care in selecting the right actors for each role. Adriana Caselotti was chosen to voice Snow White, and she was only 18 years old at the time. The seven dwarfs were voiced by a group of veteran character actors, including Pinto Colvig, who also provided the voice of Goofy.
One of the most memorable performances in the film was provided by Lucille La Verne, who voiced the evil queen. La Verne's distinctive voice and dramatic delivery added an extra layer of terror to the character. Her performance is still considered one of the best villain performances in Disney history.
The Legacy Of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs
Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs was an enormous success upon its release in 1937. The film was praised for its groundbreaking animation, memorable characters, and timeless story. It paved the way for future animated feature films and established Disney as a major player in the film industry.
The legacy of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs continues to this day. The film has been re-released several times over the years and remains a beloved classic. Its influence can be seen in countless other films and television shows. The characters of Snow White and the seven dwarfs have become cultural icons and are instantly recognizable to people of all ages.
Conclusion
Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs is a true masterpiece of animation. Its groundbreaking techniques, memorable characters, and timeless story have made it a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. The film is a testament to the vision and determination of Walt Disney and his team of animators. It set the standard for future animated films and paved the way for Disney's continued success in the film industry. Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs will always hold a special place in the hearts of Disney fans and animation enthusiasts everywhere.