‘The Jungle Book Diamond Edition’: Excl. Interview with Animator Floyd Norman

I had the pleasure of speaking with renowned Disney animator Floyd Norman (“The Hunchback of Notredame”, “Mulan”, “Toy Story 2”) about the upcoming release of “The Jungle Book Diamond Edition” (on Blu-ray and Digital HD on Feb. 11).

What place ‘The Jungle Book’ occupies in your rich filmography?

It was very special because it was the only time that I have got to work with Walt Disney himself. That’s is because I have started in the Story Department and Walt Disney focused all his attention there. That was a very unique opportunity and made the experience very special for me.

How would you describe him?

He was a very special person, an isnpirational leader. He was an on-hands boss and you felt you had his full attention. Even that he was a demanding boss it was easy to work for him because he knew exactly what he wanted from you.

What were the main challenges in creating this film?

Usually, with an animated film you start with nothing. In this case we had the novel written by Rudyard Kipling, but Walt Disney told us not to read it. He wanted it to be a uniquely Disney story. This is “Walt Disney’s The Jungle Book”. Our job was to create this world and inhabit it with characters people would fall in love with. That was his goal, what is known as “Real Disney Entertainment”.

Why do you think that this movie keeps resonating decades after its release?

Disney films have a very timeless quality. They never grow old and the audience never gets tired of watching them. Children enjoyed it back in 1967, and I believe they will enjoy it 50 years from now. It is as real today as it was back then. That is the magic that animation can give us.

You have worked with Pixar. What is the impact of technology in animation?

The way films are been made today is quite different because of the computers. But our storytelling hasn’t changed. These movies are as engaging and charming as the old hand-drawn films. The technology is invisible while the magic is visible on screen.

What do you think is the best way to enjoy “The Jungle Book” at home?

I think the best way is to bring the family in front of the big screen TV, if you are lucky to have one. This is a movie that everyone can enjoy, no matter how young or old you are. Like Walt Disney liked to say “children of every age”.

“Meet the most unforgettable characters and embark on a thrilling adventure with Mowgli as he journeys deep into the jungle and learns “The Bare Necessities” of life from happy-go-lucky Baloo the bear. Meet Bagheera, the wise old panther, and crazy King Louie, the orangutan. But watch out for the cunning tiger Shere Khan and Kaa, the ssssneakiest snake in the jungle!

Now for the first time ever on Blu-ray with glorious digital high definition, Disney’s Jumpin’ Jungle Classic has never looked so lush or sounded so good! Beloved characters, swinging music and new behind-the-scenes bonus features.”