I can’t help but feel inspired as I walk amongst the beauty at Pixar Animation Studios. At any given time, there are hundreds of creative minds dreaming up the latest project, but you wouldn’t know it because the campus is intently quiet and serene.
Earlier this month, I jet-setted off to Emeryville, California to get “schooled” on the studios’ latest animated release, Monsters University.
You may remember that I spent some time at the studio last year getting an inside look at what would be the year’s Best Animated Film – Brave.
It has become a tradition for the studio to undergo a makeover in anticipation of the upcoming scheduled release. As you might imagine, this year’s theme was college. The prequel to Monsters, Inc. is set approximately ten years before original and details the story of how Mike and Sulley met, became friends, and studied the art of scaring.
When we arrived at the studio, I felt like I had stepped onto the campus of a real university.
A marching band greeted us and we were surrounded by “teachers,” student body representatives, and more. The day was filled with intense “learning” and I can’t wait to share some behind-the-scenes information on how the film was made. We delved into the process of developing the story, explored the challenges of re-creating younger versions of Mike, Sulley, and their monster companions, refined our drawing skills, and were mesmerized by the creativity and technology used to animate the film.
One of the reasons I cover film junkets is to give you some insight and a deeper look at all that went into a film’s creation. Very often I find that I walk away with a greater understanding of the story and themes the filmmakers want audiences to walk away with and a deeper appreciation for the film overall. After the conclusion of our sessions, roundtable interviews, and entertaining tailgate lunch, we toured the campus while learning about the history of the studio. Steve Jobs played an integral role as the co-founder and CEO of the company and his creativity helped the studio evolve.
If you ever get an opportunity to visit the campus, you’ll likely notice the camaraderie displayed by those working at the studio. This, in part, is fostered by the open air design of the building and abundance of communal spaces, designed to foster collaboration among the artists and employees.
As we get closer to the film’s official release, I’ll share more information on all we learned during our time at Pixar.
Today, Pixar just released the latest trailer for Monsters University and we have an exclusive first look for you right here!
Monsters University opens in theaters June 21st, 2013. If you would like to keep up-to-date with the latest news regarding the film, be sure to connect via the following social media channels:
Twitter #MonstersU
No compensation was received for this post. I was invited on a press trip to cover the film’s release and travel was provided. #MonstersUEvent
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I felt the same way–they did an amazing job of creating the perfect college atmosphere! I had so much fun with you!
Miss you Lolli!!! Loved spending time with ya!
Great post, it was so good to see you Caryn!
So great to see you too Deanna!
I totally agree – everyone there seems to really love what they are doing and enjoy the company of their co-workers!