Animator Don Bluth has long been recognized as a pivotal figure in the animation industry, known for his bold departure from Disney to carve his own path. The new documentary, Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There, directed by Chad N. Walker and Dave LaMattina, explores Bluth’s storied career and his significant impact on the animation landscape during the 1980s.
Bluth’s journey began with dreams of working for Disney, a company renowned for its animated classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Cinderella. However, the era when Bluth joined Disney was marked by uncertainty. Following the passing of Walt Disney, the studio struggled to maintain its once-glorious output. Observing this stagnation, Bluth made the bold choice to leave Disney and establish Don Bluth Entertainment, aiming to challenge the status quo and innovate within the medium.
Defying the Odds in Animation
The documentary begins with Bluth’s departure from Disney, emphasizing his view of this split not as rivalry, but as healthy competition that could elevate animation standards. Bluth’s first major project, The Secret of NIMH, was produced on a modest budget compared to typical Disney films. Despite its size, the film received a warm reception and demonstrated that animation could venture into more complex narratives and artistic styles.
Through candid interviews, Bluth reflects on the challenges faced by his studio, including financial difficulties that ultimately led to a relocation to Ireland. This move not only allowed Bluth to teach aspiring animators but also signified his commitment to pushing the boundaries of animation. The documentary highlights Bluth’s innovative contributions to the gaming industry with titles like Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace, which brought cinematic quality to arcade gaming.
While Bluth’s animation techniques were groundbreaking, he candidly acknowledges the shortcomings in storytelling that sometimes plagued his films. He recognizes that his most successful projects often arose from collaboration, such as with Steven Spielberg on An American Tail and later with Fox on Anastasia. This interplay between innovation and teamwork showcases Bluth’s dual role as a pioneer and collaborator.
A Personal Journey Through Challenges
Despite its engaging content, Somewhere Out There lacks a fully chronological narrative, occasionally jumping back in time to provide context about Bluth’s life. The documentary touches on his challenging childhood, his struggle with self-image, and his deep-rooted Mormon faith. These personal elements reveal the internal conflicts Bluth faced while striving for recognition in an industry dominated by Disney.
As the film progresses, viewers see Bluth’s introspection regarding his career and the ego that sometimes hindered his journey. His reflections on the entertainment industry highlight his foresight into trends, such as the potential for interactive entertainment and the emergence of competing animation studios, a prediction realized shortly after the closure of his studio.
The documentary concludes with Bluth in his later years, filled with gratitude for his experiences and a renewed passion for storytelling. Although the film jumps ahead nearly three decades after Anastasia, it leaves viewers wishing for a deeper exploration of his personal life and the experiences that shaped him during that time.
Don Bluth: Somewhere Out There offers an engaging portrait of one of animation’s most courageous voices. Despite its minor narrative flaws, the documentary effectively captures Bluth’s legacy as a man who dared to challenge a titan of the industry, ultimately enriching the world of animation.
