The Hunchback of Notre Dame: Analyzing an Underrated Disney Masterpiece (Video Essay)

FeaturedThe Hunchback of Notre Dame: Analyzing an Underrated Disney Masterpiece (Video Essay)
In this retrospective video essay, I’ll be analyzing one of the most stunning and thematically bold adaptations that Disney Animation Studios ever attempted. Specifically, I’ll be taking a look at its unique approach to the adaptation process, as well as its interesting relationship with the Victor Hugo classic that inspired it. I try to look at this classic with fresh eyes, renewing and rekindling my passion for animation innovation in the process! I hope you all enjoy it!

This is the first part of a two part series on the Hunchback of Notre Dame. My desire is to pay tribute to what I consider a incredibly underrated film and to give it the time and attention it deserves…hence why it will be my longest video essay yet, even after splitting it into two parts!

The next part will take a closer look at the innovation and artistry involved in the making of the film! As always, thank you so much for watching!

The Surprising Endurance of the Rocketeer

FeaturedThe Surprising Endurance of the Rocketeer

What do The Rocketeer, Captain America, and Indiana Jones have in common? Probably more than you think! In this video we attempt to uncover why The Rocketeer has become such an endearing cult-classic, where its inspiration comes from, how the concept of retrofuturism impacted its enduring popularity, and how it has unexpectedly influenced cinema to this very day…over 30 years after its initial release!

Mickey’s Christmas Carol- A Holiday Retrospective

FeaturedMickey’s Christmas Carol- A Holiday Retrospective
This was originally uploaded to my YouTube Channel on Christmas Day last year, but it was never added to my blog…so here it is this year! It’s just in time for the holiday season to kick off in earnest!

This was my first ever Christmas Special on the channel! It’s a short video for a short film and I’m really excited about this project. This holiday treat is a heartwarming message of motivation provided through the lens of a Disney Christmas favorite; Mickey’s Christmas Carol! Let Ebenezer Scrooge (McDuck) be your guide to Christmas Magic! Sorry, my voice was all messed up. I was sick during recording… Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! I am beyond grateful for each and every one of you!

Star Wars – A Masterclass of Science Fiction and Fantasy

FeaturedStar Wars – A Masterclass of Science Fiction and Fantasy

The original Star Wars film was a masterpiece and redefined the way that movies were made. As a result, the series it began has become one of the most influential franchises in cinema history. As such, it holds a unique place in the pantheon of genre films…and gives us a unique perspective on both science fiction and fantasy. In this retrospective review, we explore what the Star Wars franchise’s journey can teach us about writing for these genres and how to tell amazing new stories moving forward.

Why Pixar’s Up is a Masterpiece! (Video Essay)

FeaturedWhy Pixar’s Up is a Masterpiece! (Video Essay)
This is my new video Essay for Disney/Pixar’s Up!
There is a reason why Up was the second animated film in history (The first was Beauty and the Beast) to be nominated for “Best Picture” at the Academy awards. It is a masterpiece with an incredible story and a heartfelt message. Not only is it an amazing example of Pixar’s skill in story structure, but it is also my personal favorite Pixar film. In this video, I attempt to explain why I love this movie so much while also exploring some of the storytelling genius that is woven through the fabric of the film.