The Unseen Work of Tim Burton at Disney
Discover the hidden contributions of Tim Burton at Disney that you may not have known about. From uncredited animations to forgotten short films, Burton's creative influence is woven into the tapestry of Disney's history.
Vixey in The Fox and the Hound
Tim Burton's early days at Disney were marked by his behind-the-scenes work on the beloved classic The Fox and the Hound. His talent shone through in the creation of Vixey, the captivating vixen who played a pivotal role in the story. Despite the challenges of animating Disney's signature cute characters, Burton's unique touch brought Vixey to life in a way that resonated with audiences.
Vixey in The Fox and the Hound
The Fox and the Hound, known for its heartwarming tale of friendship, was graced by Burton's artistic contribution, adding a distinct flavor to the Disney magic.
The Fox and the Hound play outside.
The Muppet Movie
In a lesser-known role, Tim Burton served as an uncredited 'additional puppeteer' for Disney's The Muppet Movie. His imaginative flair and puppetry skills played a part in bringing the iconic Muppets to life, contributing to the whimsical charm of the movie's finale.
The Muppet Movie Poster Artwork 1979
Burton's involvement in this early Disney project highlights his versatility and early influence on the entertainment industry.
TRON
While not widely recognized, Burton played a part in the animation of the original TRON movie. His uncredited work on the film's visual elements added depth to the futuristic world within the Grid, showcasing his ability to contribute to diverse genres and styles.
Jeff Bridges and Cindy Morgan in Tron (1982).
TRON's innovative visual effects were enhanced by Burton's creative input, laying the groundwork for his future success in the world of cinema.
tron 1982 inside the computer
Vincent
Amidst his time at Disney, Tim Burton embarked on an independent project, resulting in the creation of 'Vincent,' a captivating black-and-white stop-motion short film. This marked a departure from Disney's whimsical style, allowing Burton to weave his own macabre aesthetic into the narrative, setting the stage for his future directorial endeavors.
Vincent screaming in Tim Burton's Vincent
With the narration of the legendary Vincent Price, 'Vincent' stands as a testament to Burton's early artistic vision and storytelling prowess.
The Black Cauldron
Unbeknownst to many, Burton's conceptual artistry shaped the world of The Black Cauldron, a dark and distinctive Disney animated feature. His unused design for the formidable Horned King and his visionary approach to the movie's atmosphere added a layer of depth and darkness that set it apart from other Disney classics.
Tim Burtons concept for Black Cauldrons Horned King
While his contributions may have gone unnoticed, Burton's imprint on The Black Cauldron remains an intriguing chapter in his creative journey at Disney.
Tim Burton's concept art for the black cauldron
Hansel And Gretel
In his second Disney short film, Burton skillfully combined live-action and stop-motion, crafting a haunting adaptation of Hansel and Gretel. Although the project was shelved due to its dark undertones, it served as a testament to Burton's willingness to explore unconventional and eerie themes within the realm of family entertainment.
Tim Burton's Hansel and Gretel
The fusion of live-action and stop-motion in this project foreshadowed Burton's future ventures into blending different cinematic techniques to tell captivating stories.
Frankenweenie
Burton's early departure from Disney was marked by the creation of a live-action short film, 'Frankenweenie,' showcasing his penchant for darker narratives and unconventional storytelling. Despite the studio's reservations, this project laid the groundwork for Burton's later success, culminating in a feature-length stop-motion adaptation of the same name.
Sparky smiling, with Victor in the back with a shovel in the movie poster for Frankenweenie.
The clash of creative visions between Burton and Disney set the stage for his evolution as a filmmaker, leading to his iconic works that continue to captivate audiences.
James And The Giant Peach
Burton's return to Disney saw him co-produce the captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic, James and the Giant Peach. His distinctive style and creative influence permeated the film, leaving a lasting mark on the narrative and visual aesthetic.
James and the Giant Peach Captain Jack
Despite the complexities of his relationship with Disney, Burton's collaboration on this project showcased his ability to infuse familiar stories with his signature touch, breathing new life into beloved tales.
James and the Giant Peach
