Andy Hendrickson and the Importance of Story

Toy Story 3 Screenplay

There’s been a fair amount of commentary floating around the web on Disney Animation’s Chief Technical Officer, Andy Hendrickson, and his two cents on the wonderful world of story. For those of you who haven’t had the chance to read it, here it is:

People say ‘It’s all about the story.’ When you’re making tentpole films, bullshit. 1

Here’s a quote from John Lasseter, the current Chief Creative Officer at Pixar and Disney Animation:

If you’re sitting in your minivan, playing your computer animated films for your children in the back seat, is it the animation that’s entertaining you as you drive and listen? No, it’s the storytelling. That’s why we put so much importance on story. No amount of great animation will save a bad story.

I’m sure Andy earned both his title and position at Disney. I know John Lasseter did.

  1. LeBlanc, Will. “Disney Executive Admits Story Doesn’t Matter When You’re Making Blockbusters.” CinemaBlend.com: Entertainment News and Opinions You Can Trust. 17 Aug. 2011. Web. 17 Aug. 2011. Link.
William Robert Rich
William Robert Rich

William Robert Rich is a story analyst, screenwriter, and co-author of Story Maps: The Films of Christopher Nolan. He's currently based in Austin, Texas.

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