In addition to restoring classic short films, Walt Disney Animation has also been engaged in restoring older movies. On August 25th, they will unveil a 4K restoration of Walt Disney’s 1950 iconic animated film ‘Cinderella’ on Disney+.
Details: To celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary, Disney Animation has chosen World Princess Week to launch this revitalized version of the beloved movie.
This restoration is the outcome of a multi-year endeavor involving collaboration between the Walt Disney Studios Restoration and Preservation team and key members from Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Working alongside Dorothy McKim (special projects and 2D animation producer for Walt Disney Animation Studios) and Bob Bagley (digital imaging manager for Disney Animation), the team successfully revived and preserved the vibrant colors, contrast, and authenticity of the original cells and artwork.
Kevin Schaeffer, the Director of Restoration for Walt Disney Studios, explained, ‘Through collaboration with our restoration team, internal technical experts, external vendors like Mike Underwood at Picture Shop Hollywood, and advisors from Walt Disney Animation Studios, we managed to enhance this 1950 classic’s visual and audio quality.’
Schaeffer further elaborated, ‘We initiated the process by retrieving the original nitrate negative from the Library of Congress and conducting 4K scans of the successive exposure color records. Subsequently, we performed a cleaning phase to eliminate dirt and numerous artifacts. Leveraging the current restoration tools, we achieved a sharper and superior image compared to previous efforts.’
To ensure the retention of intricate details and the artistic intent of the filmmakers, renowned Disney Animation figures such as Michael Giaimo and Eric Goldberg were actively involved in the restoration process.
Goldberg, an esteemed animation figure and veteran Disney director, animator, and mentor, shared his enthusiasm: ‘Restoring this film with Mike was a true labor of love. We both hold a deep affection for the movie and felt a strong obligation to preserve it. Observers of this restoration will not only experience heightened clarity but also uncover subtleties. They will notice variations in color from scene to scene and comprehend the interplay of different hues. Mike and I understood the film’s intended appearance, and it required considerable effort to restore Cinderella’s dusty blonde hair and silver dress. I am proud that the Studio recognized the significance of an accurate restoration and entrusted a select few of us to achieve that.’
The Film: Walt Disney’s ‘Cinderella’ made its debut in 1950, earning acclaim for its elegant and innovative visuals, sophisticated animation, and charming narrative. Adapted from Charles Perrault’s 1697 fairy tale of the same name, it stands as Disney’s 12th animated feature film.
The voice cast includes Ilene Woods as Cinderella, Eleanor Audley as Lady Tremaine, and Verna Felton as the Fairy Godmother.
Upon its initial release, the film was a resounding success, rescuing the Studio from financial hardships brought about by wartime challenges. It garnered three Academy Award nominations: Best Scoring of a Musical Picture, Best Sound Recording, and Best Original Song for ‘Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo’.
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