As Disney shaped the animation world, many iconic artists cut their teeth on some of the studio's iconic animated features. Even though times have changed, however, it might be time for some of the old professionals to step up to the plate once again.
If you've kept up with some of the recent news out of Walt Disney Animation Studios, you'll already know that many of its most recent cinematic offerings have left much to be desired. Enter one of Disney's legendary directors to do damage control.
Ron Clements returns to Disney
Part of the legendary duo of Musker and Clements, Ron Musker has had his hand behind some of Disney's most beloved animated classics. From The Rescuers to Moana, Clements has been a member of the Disney family for decades. Just after being honored by the Annecy International Film Festival, Clements made a major announcement this week: he's coming out of retirement.
Clements was one of the most influential animators from the Disney Renaissance, and his skill as a director cannot be denied. While he is primarily returning to Walt Disney Animation in an "advisory role," this news has long been predicted, and he won't be the only one to make such a grand return.
Personally, this is something that this writer has predicted since Wish fizzled out. Disney fans are longing for the days when legendary artists were mastering their craft and building Disney's magical image, so now the first member of the old guard has made his return.
In my opinion, Clements won't be the only Disney Legend to return to the studio, he is just the first of many. How long will it be before his creative partner and cohort, John Musker, joins him? Then who? Rob Minkoff? Kurt Wise? We might be sitting on the precipice of a new Disney Renaissance!
Disney has been spiraling for years, and it's in desperate need of a lifeline. Look at some of the products coming from it's biggest competitors like DreamWorks and Universal. The House of Mouse needs a shot of magic straight in the arm, and Clements is the first of many who just might do it.
Has Ron Clements helped bring your favorite movie to life?