Frozen 3, the upcoming Wish film, and the impact of Cinderella were some of the topics discussed by Jennifer Lee, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ chief creative officer and writer and co-director of the Frozen films. During a BFI London Film Festival Spotlight talk, Lee shared her excitement for the future of Frozen, stating that she had been working with the creative team on the project. She expressed her enthusiasm about the new ideas being brought to the table.
Regarding her role on the film, Lee mentioned that she was working as part of a team, which is her usual approach to projects. This collaborative effort allows for multiple perspectives and diverse input, resulting in a more comprehensive and well-rounded final product.
Lee is also involved in the production of Wish, a film about the origin of Disney’s wishing star. Directed by Chris Buck, who also directed Frozen, and Fawn Veerasunthorn, the film features original songs by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Julia Michaels. One challenge faced by the studio is deciding which song or songs to enter for Oscar consideration. This decision must be made by November 1, prior to the film’s release date. The studio hopes to avoid the situation faced with Encanto, where the ballad “Dos Oruguitas” received an Oscar nomination, but the chart-topping hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” did not.
Lee praised Chris Pine for his portrayal of the villain, Magnifico, in Wish. She described the character as the most detailed and expansive bad guy in a Disney film to date. His journey throughout the film offers a unique perspective on the role of villains in storytelling.
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Reflecting on her own experience, Lee shared that she was severely bullied in middle school. During this difficult time, she found solace in watching Cinderella. Seeing how Cinderella held on to her true self despite mistreatment inspired Lee to do the same. She acknowledged that Disney films often serve as an escape for those who are facing challenges, reminding them that there is always something better to come.
Lee also emphasized the importance of timeliness and timelessness in Disney’s animation work. In today’s rapidly changing world, it is crucial for films to resonate with current audiences while also having a lasting impact. Disney strives to create stories that are relevant to contemporary issues while remaining timeless in their appeal.
Overall, Jennifer Lee’s discussion touched on various aspects of her work, from the future of Frozen to her role in Wish and the personal significance of Disney films. Her insights shed light on the creative process behind these projects and the impact they can have on audiences. As fans eagerly await Frozen 3 and the release of Wish, Lee’s words provide a glimpse into the magic and artistry that goes into creating these beloved films.
