Ut-Austin Alum Reveals The Animated Magic Of Disneys Encanto ...
Disney's latest animated movie Encanto has been winning hearts and breaking records since its release in November 2021. The movie is set in Colombia and follows the magical Madrigal family, who each have a unique power except for the protagonist Mirabel. The movie features an all-Latino cast and crew, making it a landmark release for representation in entertainment. But what goes into creating a movie like Encanto? How do you create a world so full of magic and wonder? We spoke to Ut-Austin alum Daniela Strijleva, who worked on the film's visual development, to find out.
The Inspiration Behind The Film
Encanto was inspired by the real-life stories of Colombian families, particularly the idea of the matriarchal family structure. The film's director Byron Howard traveled to Colombia to research the culture and landscape, which influenced the movie's vibrant color palette and lush environments. Strijleva explained that the team also drew inspiration from Colombian textiles and embroidery, which can be seen in the characters' clothing and the patterns on the walls of the Madrigal home.
The Visual Development Process
As part of the visual development team, Strijleva's job was to help establish the look and feel of the film. This involved creating concept art, color scripts, and character designs. Strijleva explained that the process began with brainstorming sessions, where the team would discuss the story and the world they wanted to create. From there, they would create rough sketches and paintings to explore different ideas.
Once they had a clear idea of the film's direction, the team began creating more detailed concept art. Strijleva explained that this involved creating different versions of the environments and characters to find the right balance of design and function. For example, the team had to create a version of the Madrigal home that could house a family of 12 and all their magical powers.
The Importance Of Representation
One of the most significant aspects of Encanto is its all-Latino cast and crew. Strijleva explained that this was a deliberate decision on Disney's part, as they wanted to ensure that the film was authentic and respectful to Colombian culture. Having a diverse team also meant that the film could be more nuanced in its portrayal of the Madrigal family and their powers.
Encanto's success at the box office is proof that audiences are hungry for movies that celebrate diversity and representation. Strijleva hopes that the film will inspire more studios to create stories that reflect the world we live in.
The Magic Of Animation
Animation is a unique medium that allows filmmakers to create worlds and characters that would be impossible to achieve in live-action. Encanto's magical realism elements are a perfect example of this. Strijleva explained that animation allows for a more stylized and exaggerated approach to design, which can be used to create memorable and iconic characters.
Encanto is a testament to the power of animation, representation, and storytelling. By bringing Colombian culture to life in a magical way, the film has touched the hearts of audiences around the world. With its colorful characters, lush environments, and memorable music, Encanto is a must-see for anyone who loves a good story.