In terms of the relationship between animation and live-action, we’ve spoken about one side, but you have already brought animation into live-action with Dumbo, a film that I love—
You’re the only one!
I reviewed it back when I was a critic, and the animated version is the first movie I ever remember seeing—so this was special.
Absolutely, and that’s the beautiful thing. It doesn’t have to be a great movie, it’s just something that’s special to you. I love it, we all have it.
Tell me about the process of bringing hand-drawn characters to life.
You can have varying degrees of success with that. You can never really predict it. Because I started out as a drawing animator, and I think every form of animation has its strengths, whether it’s stop-motion or drawn animation. I always try to treat it in terms of trying whatever, right or wrong, that is the best form for that particular character.
How does it feel to see your animated work take on a life in the real world? With Corpse Bride, there have been multiple collectible dolls over the years, and definitely a lot of themed weddings.
Can I tell you what? For me, that’s the most beautiful thing. That says something beyond box office or critical acclaim or anything. That, for me, is the most touching and emotional thing. It transcends box office and criticism, so I like it.
You must have had folks coming up to you who have tattoos as well.
Oh, yeah, and lots of people dressing up. Sometimes it takes time. Sometimes it doesn’t happen right when a movie comes out. I mean, it happened with Nightmare, but it also took a long time. But it’s still the most important thing to me.
