Review:
Disney Animation: The Illusion Of Life (book)
overall review score: 4.8
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
score is between 0 and 5
"Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life" is a comprehensive and authoritative book authored by Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas, two of Disney's legendary "Nine Old Men." It offers an in-depth exploration of the art and craft of animation at Walt Disney Studios, covering the principles of animation, character development, storyboarding, and the philosophy behind creating engaging animated films. Regarded as a seminal resource, the book provides both historical insights and practical guidance, making it essential for students, animators, and fans alike.
Key Features
- Detailed explanation of the 12 basic principles of animation
- Insights into the creative process at Disney Studios
- Historical contexts and anecdotes from classic Disney films
- Illustrated with numerous sketches and production artwork
- Authored by two pioneering Disney animators
- Includes tips and techniques relevant to both traditional and modern animation
Pros
- Comprehensive and well-researched content on animation principles
- Written by authoritative figures with firsthand industry experience
- Rich illustrations enhance understanding of concepts
- Excellent resource for students, educators, and professionals
- Provides historical context alongside practical advice
Cons
- Some sections may be too detailed or technical for casual readers
- Primarily focused on traditional animation; less on digital methods
- Outdated in terms of modern animation technology (but still valuable historically)