UPDATE: The highly anticipated documentary, Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There, directed by Chad N. Walker and Dave LaMattina, has just been released, offering an urgent exploration of Don Bluth’s groundbreaking career. This film delves into how Bluth defied the animation industry norms of the 1980s by breaking away from Disney, a move that reshaped the animation landscape forever.
In a time when Disney was struggling to find its footing after the death of Walt Disney, Bluth took a monumental leap, founding Don Bluth Entertainment. The documentary reveals how Bluth’s first film, The Secret of NIMH, set the stage for a new era of animation, proving that high-quality storytelling could thrive outside the Disney framework.
Through candid interviews conducted in his late eighties, Bluth reflects on the challenges he faced, including financial difficulties that led him to relocate to Ireland. Here, he not only continued his animation work but also contributed to training the next generation of animators. The documentary captures his revolutionary ventures into interactive entertainment with groundbreaking video games like Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace.
Despite his successes, Bluth candidly acknowledges the imperfections in his projects, admitting that while his animation was visually stunning, the scripts often fell short. This revelation adds depth to Bluth’s journey, highlighting the pressures of competing with an industry giant like Disney.
The film does not follow a strict chronological order, occasionally shifting back to Bluth’s childhood, marked by struggles with self-identity and faith. While it provides insight into his psyche, some viewers may find themselves wishing for a deeper exploration of his personal life, particularly how his experiences shaped his professional endeavors.
As Bluth reflects on his career, he expresses gratitude for his experiences and the impact he made on the animation industry. While he recognizes the weight of his ego in competing with Disney, his introspective nature speaks volumes about the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of his passion.
What’s Next: As audiences dive into this compelling documentary, they will gain a renewed appreciation for Bluth’s contributions to animation. The film serves not only as a tribute to a pioneering animator but also as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of the animation industry.
With its urgent storytelling and emotional depth, Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There is poised to resonate with both animation enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. Don’t miss the chance to witness the legacy of a man who dared to take on a Goliath and forever altered the course of animation history.
