The Nine Old Men summary

The Beginning of an Era

In The Nine Old Men, Andreas Deja takes us on a journey through the lives and careers of Walt Disney's core animators, the men responsible for creating some of the most iconic characters in animation history. Deja begins with an overview of the early days of animation, introducing us to the Nine Old Men and their unique individual styles.

We meet Les Clark, the first of the Nine, who was known for his work on Mickey Mouse and the creation of Jiminy Cricket. Next, we learn about Marc Davis, who was responsible for animating some of Disney's most famous female characters, such as Snow White, Cinderella, and Tinker Bell. Then, there's Ollie Johnston, known for his work on Pinocchio, Bambi, and Lady and the Tramp, and Milt Kahl, known for his precise and realistic animation style.

Exploring Unique Animation Styles

Deja then delves into the unique animation styles of other members of the Nine Old Men. Frank Thomas, known for his work on Thumper in Bambi and Captain Hook in Peter Pan, and Ward Kimball, known for his work on Jiminy Cricket and the Mad Hatter, are explored in detail. We also learn about Eric Larson, responsible for the animation of some of the most beloved Disney characters, and John Lounsbery, known for his work on Winnie the Pooh and Tigger.

Each animator's style is explored in depth, allowing us to understand their contributions to the world of animation. Deja provides us with insights into their creative processes and the unique characteristics that made each of their works stand out.

Legacy of the Nine Old Men

As we progress through The Nine Old Men, we come to understand the unique roles each of the Nine played in shaping Disney's animation legacy. We see the challenges they faced, the innovative techniques they developed, and the enduring impact they had on the art of animation. Their work not only entertained generations of audiences but also set the standard for character animation.

Deja also shares personal anecdotes about his interactions with these legendary animators, offering us a rare glimpse into their personalities and working methods. He paints a vivid picture of the Disney animation studio and the incredible talent that resided within its walls.

Enduring Influence and Lasting Lessons

In the final chapters of The Nine Old Men, Deja reflects on the enduring influence of these animators. He discusses how their techniques and principles continue to inspire and guide modern animators. Their legacy lives on in the characters they brought to life and the timeless stories they helped tell.

Deja also shares some of the lessons he learned from the Nine Old Men, offering valuable advice for aspiring animators. He emphasizes the importance of strong draftsmanship, understanding character psychology, and the ability to bring characters to life through movement and expression.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, The Nine Old Men is a fascinating exploration of the lives and works of Disney's core animators. Andreas Deja's personal connection to these legendary figures, combined with his deep knowledge of animation, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history and craft of animation. It provides a unique perspective on the golden age of Disney animation and the incredible talent that shaped it.