Neal wrote:Right, right...no suit interference at all.
When we refer to "suits," we're typically speaking of someone that only sees the business side of making films and not the creative, artistic side that must go into them.
I'm sure we all realize that Lasseter was once a Disney animator frustrated with his own perceived inability to draw a character the way he wanted to. He knew the importance of great characters and great stories, and saw that CGI had an amazing potential to bring them to life in a new way. And I believe that he, like Walt Disney once did, has a knack for knowing what is universally appealing to an audience.
It's the suits that closed down 2D, thinking that CG is some kind of magical formula that will draw an audience in and make money. It was the suits that also knew audience members are attached to certain characters and were milking them for all they were worth (ie direct-to-video sequels). Lasseter knows better than that. He can't let egos and loyalties get in the way of telling the best possible version of the story. And hell, he's made it a point to allow 2D to make a comeback. I doubt that making any of the changes he's making are easy decisions; there has to be a balance between creativity as well as the business aspects of creating these films.
People are naturally going to make comparisons to Pixar when it comes to animated movies. Why? They're currently the most successful studio out there right now. Are we really supposed to get angry with Lasseter because he's made some very successful films and has been chosen to help bring that success back to Disney once again?
Disney animation has been floundering. If anyone can bring back its success, I believe it's Lasseter. His decisions may seem harsh, but you know what? Walt was the same way.
