John Lasseter is a name that resonates with anyone even remotely connected to the animation industry. He’s not just a pioneer; he co-founded Pixar Animation Studios, the creative genius behind “Toy Story,” “A Bug’s Life,” and “Cars.” Lasseter’s journey has been extraordinary, marked by groundbreaking successes and an unwavering commitment to storytelling.
After leaving Pixar and Disney, he embarked on a new adventure that promised to reshape the animation landscape. In 2019, he joined Skydance Animation, and the animation world watched with bated breath.
Lasseter’s Arrival: A New Beginning
Lasseter’s entrance into Skydance Animation was nothing short of seismic. Alongside him came a cadre of former colleagues from Pixar and Disney, including producer Vickey Jensen, known for her work on the hit film “Shrek.” Their mission was to redefine the boundaries of animation and usher in a new era.
Skydance Animation, a division of Skydance Media, was founded in 2017. From the outset, their objective was clear: create animated films and television shows that are both artistically innovative and commercially successful. With John Lasseter’s creative genius at the helm, they were well on their way to achieving this goal.
Critically Acclaimed Successes: “Blush” and “Luck”
Under Lasseter’s guidance, Skydance Animation has produced a string of critically acclaimed films, including “Blush” and “Luck,” currently available for streaming. These films have captivated audiences and critics alike with their emotionally charged storytelling and stunning visuals.
“Blush” takes viewers on a journey with a stranded astronaut who befriends a curious alien, and it has been praised for its emotional depth and breathtaking animation.
“Luck,” available on Apple TV+ since 2021, immerses audiences in a magical world where luck is tangible. The film’s imaginative world-building and heartfelt storytelling have earned it well-deserved acclaim.
The Anticipation for “Spellbound”
However, the real excitement lies in the future. Skydance Animation’s most highly anticipated project, “Spellbound,” produced by John Lasseter, is set to be released in 2024. The film was first announced at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in 2020, where Lasseter and his team unveiled a sneak peek of the film’s concept art.
The film promises to be a visual spectacle, with concept art already setting industry tongues wagging. “Spellbound” narrates the tale of a young girl on a mission to break a family curse, and its potential for captivating storytelling is immense.
Shaping a New Culture: Diversity and Inclusion
John Lasseter’s influence extends far beyond the silver screen. Under his leadership, Skydance Animation has undergone a cultural transformation, emphasizing diversity and inclusion. The studio is committed to hiring more women and people of color in key creative roles, further enriching the tapestry of stories they can tell.
In an interview with, Lasseter expressed his vision for Skydance Animation: “I want to create a studio that is known for its creativity, its innovation, and its commitment to telling great stories. I want to push the boundaries of what is possible in animation and create films that are both artistically innovative and commercially successful.”
The Future Beckons: Skydance Animation’s Ascension
John Lasseter’s impact on Skydance Animation has been nothing short of transformative. His unmatched creativity and storytelling prowess have steered the studio’s creative direction, innovation, and storytelling. Skydance Animation is poised to become a prominent player in the animation industry with films like “Blush,” “Luck,” and the eagerly anticipated “Spellbound.” John Lasseter’s leadership and vision are the guiding stars that illuminate this remarkable journey into the future of animation.