Animation Guild | We are 839 Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1521473
4 KEYFRAME L E T T E R WITH THE 30 TH ANNIVERSARY OF DISNEY'S TIMELESS MASTERPIECE, THE LION KING, I CAN'T HELP BUT FEEL A WAVE OF NOSTALGIA WASH OVER ME. IT SEEMS LIKE JUST YESTERDAY THAT I EMBARKED ON MY OWN JOURNEY IN THE ANIMATION INDUSTRY, A JOURNEY THAT HAS BEEN CLOSELY INTERTWINED WITH THE EVOLUTION OF THIS ICONIC FILM. Three decades ago, The Lion King roared into theaters, captivating audiences with its stunning animation, unforgettable characters, and powerful storytelling. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on the world of animation and inspiring countless artists—myself included—to pursue our passions in this magical craft. Reflecting back, it's remarkable to see how much the animation industry has transformed. When I first set foot in this world, hand-drawn animation reigned supreme, and the thought of computer-generated imagery revolutionizing the industry seemed like a distant dream. Yet here we are, living in an age where CGI has become the norm, pushing the boundaries of what we once thought possible and opening up a world of endless creative possibilities. But with progress comes change, and as members of The Animation Guild, we have been at the forefront of navigating these shifts in the industry landscape. Our Union has stood as a steadfast advocate for animation artists, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth in an ever-evolving industry. Also standing strong, The Lion King serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of animation on our lives. It's a testament to the dedication and talent of the artists who brought this beloved film to life, and a symbol of the countless hours of hard work and passion that go into creating the animated masterpieces we know and love. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, let us take a moment to reflect on the journey that has brought us to where we are today. Let us honor the legacy of The Lion King and the artists who contributed to its success. Animation is now faced with some big technological changes as Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to proliferate in the creative sector. It's still unclear how it will affect our creative process and animation. Yet, as we stand on the precipice of this new era, I am cautiously hopeful. Our industry has always been one of resilience and innovation, and I have no doubt that we will rise to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we can navigate this new frontier, harnessing the power of technology while preserving the artistry that defines our craft. Here's to The Lion King, to 30 years of incredible animation, and to the bright future that lies ahead for our industry and our Union. In Solidarity, Jeanette Moreno King | President The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839 DEAR MEMBERS ON THE COVER Tim Sullens photographed sisters Lorelay and Neysa Bové at Shot of Art in downtown L.A.