Top 10 Documentaries About Animation

Description: A heartwarming look at the friendship and professional partnership of Disney animators Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, who helped define the Disney animation style.

Fact: The film includes their personal home movies, giving a unique insight into their lives outside of animation.

Description: This documentary chronicles the rise of Pixar Animation Studios from its humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in the animation industry. It's a must-watch for understanding the impact of Pixar on modern animation.

Fact: The film includes interviews with key figures like Steve Jobs and John Lasseter, providing a personal touch to the studio's history.

Description: Focused on the Disney Animation Studios' renaissance in the late '80s and '90s, this documentary captures the creative and corporate turmoil that led to the revival of Disney's animation legacy.

Fact: It features rare footage and interviews with Disney legends like Roy E. Disney and Michael Eisner.

Description: Although more of an animated feature, this film explores the history of animation through its unique rotoscoping technique, providing a modern take on the art form's roots.

Fact: The film was inspired by the works of Ralph Bakshi and the fantasy genre.

Description: This film sheds light on Ub Iwerks, the unsung hero of Disney animation, whose technical innovations were crucial to the early success of Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters.

Fact: Iwerks was Walt Disney's first employee and co-creator of Mickey Mouse.

Description: While not directly about animation, this documentary explores the world of art theft, which includes animated art, providing a different perspective on the value and protection of art.

Fact: The film features interviews with art experts and former thieves, offering a thrilling look into the art world's darker side.

Description: This film explores the life and work of Richard Williams, the animator behind "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," and his ambitious, unfinished project "The Thief and the Cobbler."

Fact: The documentary took 15 years to complete, mirroring the dedication and struggle of Williams' own project.

Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film, based on a script by Jacques Tati, provides a poignant look at the life of an aging magician in the world of animation, reflecting on the art form's evolution.

Fact: The film was animated by Sylvain Chomet, who also directed the acclaimed "The Triplets of Belleville."

Description: This documentary celebrates the life and work of Chuck Jones, the legendary animator behind Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and many other Looney Tunes characters.

Fact: It includes interviews with Jones himself, offering his personal reflections on his career.

Description: A compilation of short animated films from around the world, showcasing the diversity and innovation in contemporary animation.

Fact: The project was started by Ron Diamond to promote independent animators.