This is D23 and D23 Expo Web site editor Max Lark’s third report from the inaugural D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center.
OK, I’ll admit it. I’m biased.
As much as I love every single bit of the creative output that The Walt Disney Company produces today, and I do, I cannot help looking back in time through the prism of Disney history. It’s such a rich tapestry, such a fertile interweaving of talent, vision, dedication and originality, that it would be impossible to love this company as much as I do without cherishing just as much its incredible past.
The American novelist William Faulkner once said: “The past isn’t over; it hasn’t even happened yet.” And yes, I know what Walt, the “Nine Old Men” and all the creative, technical and engineering work Disney luminaries from past eras have done has been done and is in the past. But I agree with Mr. Faulkner. Disney’s past continues to live, insists on re-evaluation, continues to amaze and reveals new insights into the origins of a Studio that redefined family entertainment.
For proof, stop by the “Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives” exhibit at the D23 Expo and pause in front of the showcase featuring items taken from Walt’s desk in the days following his sad passing. That’s the desk blotter his wool suit brushed against during meetings. The phone he used to communicate decisions. His personal camera (until he gave it to Disney Legend Roger Broggie). From this desk have come the passion, the dedication, the tireless pursuit of perfection that continue to drive The Walt Disney Company to this day. Walt remains the guiding light to this Company in everything it does. Talk about the past continuing to drive the present…
Take time to look at the costume from the making of Pinocchio. Though the costume is not the one Disney Legend Dickie Jones wore during character reference sessions, the subtlety, the detailing, reveal the nuanced attention to authenticity that made the Studio’s animated feature films so uncompromisingly real.
Then there’s the storybook from Sleeping Beauty (1950). Sure, you’ll recognize the almost indescribable beauty of the jewel-encrusted cover, so unforgettably captured on the film in this classic Disney fairy tale. I’ve been fortunate enough to see the book opened (not to brag); to say the luminous Eyvind Earle artwork on its pages is breathtaking doesn’t do justice to the sensation of watching its pages turn.
There’s so much to admire and ponder — and utterly enjoy — in this calm space (check out the Disney Channel costumes while you’re at it; passion for detail is never forgotten at Disney). But whatever is your particular Disney passion, you’ll find an array of props, costumes and treasures to keep you amazed during your visit to “The Treasures of The Walt Disney Archives” exhibit.
And the best part of the experience, perhaps, is knowing that the tradition will continue as long as there is The Walt Disney Company.
Make sure you allot some time to check out this wondrous exhibition. And by now you know the drill… check out the pictures below!
Max
The awe-inspiring storybook from Sleeping Beauty.
Items from Walt’s desk, orignally documented and archived by Disney Legend and Chief Disney Archivist Dave Smith.
The detailing of this character reference costume for Pinocchio reveals the attention to authenticity that made the Studio’s animated feature films so uncompromisingly real.
The 11-foot-long shooting miniature used during filming of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
Complete stage costume including blonde “hero” wig No. 1 worn by Miley Cyrus.
