Exploring Pixar’s Pete Docter: Cannes Triumphs, ‘Elemental’ Creations, and the Future of Animation

Analysis: Pixar‘s Approach to Programming and Disney+ Releases

Docter’s Philosophy on Pixar‘s Audience

Pixar‘s creative chief officer, Pete Docter, recently sat down with Variety to discuss the studio’s approach to programming and its decision to release films on Disney+. Docter affirmed that Pixar does not see itself as solely creating children’s programming. Instead, the studio focuses on creating films that appeal to the first audience, themselves. This approach allows Pixar to make films that are both simple enough for adults to enjoy and sophisticated enough for kids to find interesting. By finding something at the heart of each film that speaks to the human experience, Pixar ensures that there is something for parents to connect with as well.

Release Strategy and the Impact of Disney+

Docter also discussed Pixar‘s strategy behind releasing films on Disney+. While the pandemic provided a unique opportunity for films like “Soul” to reach audiences through streaming, it has also had a mixed blessing. By making films available on Disney+, Pixar has inadvertently trained audiences to expect these releases on the platform. This, in turn, affects movie theater attendance, especially for families. Docter emphasized that there is a great deal that viewers miss by not experiencing films like “Elemental” on the big screen. The visuals and immersive experience are enhanced in the theater, and there is a shared energy that comes from watching a film with strangers. Pixar is trying to remind audiences of the value in seeing their films in cinemas.

Philosophical Discussion: The Complexity of Pixar‘s Characters and Audiences’ Preferences

Intricacy and Universality in Pixar‘s Characters

Docter offered insight into the complexity of Pixar‘s characters and the layers the studio incorporates into its storytelling process. Pixar‘s films aim to appeal to the kid in all of us, igniting imagination and exploring worlds that provoke questions about daily life. The development of stories starts with tapping into something that appeals to the common experience of being human. Pixar tackles themes like loss, becoming a parent, and the struggle between duty and love, which resonate with adults. However, these themes are presented in a multilayered way that also includes physical and verbal comedy, visual puns, and different venues to engage viewers of all ages. The hope is to create a film that has something for everyone.

Preference for Established IP and the Importance of Original Stories

Docter addressed the current trend in the film industry, where audiences gravitate towards established IP such as sequels and adaptations of comic books or video games. While acknowledging the comfort and familiarity these films provide, Docter stressed the importance of developing new, original stories. He compared the balance to that of music, suggesting that the sweet spot lies somewhere between the expected and the surprising. Pixar believes that audiences deserve to be surprised and delighted by new stories, even though they may be harder to publicize and generate excitement for. The studio is dedicated to creating original films while also working on sequels to beloved franchises like “Inside Out” and “Toy Story.”

Editorial: The Future of Pixar and the Role of Movie Theaters

The Challenge of Getting Audiences Back to Movie Theaters

Docter pointed out several challenges in getting audiences to return to movie theaters, particularly families with children. The reluctance to go back to theaters goes beyond health concerns and extends to the cost of attending movies. Going to a theater with a family of four can be an expensive outing, leading families to be more selective about what films they choose to see. Original films face a tougher battle because audience members are more likely to choose a known quantity like a sequel. Pixar recognizes these challenges but believes that the spectacle, scope, and immersive experience of seeing a film on the big screen make it a worthwhile and unique experience that cannot be replicated at home.

Advice: Nurturing Audience Engagement and Embracing Originality

Pixar‘s Mission to Engage Audiences

Pixar‘s goal is to engage a wide range of audiences through its films. By creating stories that resonate with the human experience and incorporating humor, visual appeal, and relatable themes, Pixar aims to connect with both children and adults. This approach allows the studio to maintain its reputation for creating films that are meaningful, entertaining, and accessible to viewers of all ages.

The Importance of Embracing Originality

Despite the current dominance of established IP in the film industry, Pixar remains committed to developing new and original stories. Docter emphasizes that audiences deserve to discover surprises and experience the joy of unfamiliar but compelling narratives. Pixar believes that there is room for different perspectives in animation and that originality should be celebrated and supported. By continuing to push boundaries and create new worlds, Pixar contributes to the ever-evolving landscape of animated storytelling.

The Role of Movie Theaters and the Unique Cinematic Experience

Docter acknowledges the challenges of attracting audiences back to movie theaters, particularly in an era of streaming services and convenient home viewing. However, he underscores the unique cinematic experience that movie theaters offer. The immersive nature of a dark theater, combined with the powerful visuals, sound, and music, creates an unparalleled experience for viewers. Pixar encourages audiences to consider the value of the shared experience, the grandeur of the big screen, and the richness of the cinematic environment.

In conclusion, Pixar continues to innovate and create stories that resonate with audiences of all ages. While facing the challenges of changing viewing habits and audience preferences, the studio remains dedicated to fostering audience engagement, embracing originality, and reminding viewers of the unique cinematic experience that movie theaters provide.