Special movie screenings for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders continue in 2015. “Pinocchio” and “101 Dalmatians” were recently screened at the Fantasyland Theatre.
I had the chance to attend the “101 Dalmatians” screening, and it was fun! Check in was very easy as guests just needed to show their Annual Pass if they had registered in advance. If not, there was a standby line available. We received a special “101 Dalmatians” themed activity book and Valentine cards. Doors opened 30 minutes prior to showtime, and we received complimentary popcorn and water as we entered the theatre. (The only downfall was that no napkins were available.)
Two chairs were set up on the stage along with a screen so you can see the movie and the panel discussion. Disney historian Tim O’Day and legendary Disney animator Andreas Deja hosted the discussion. Tim and Andreas looked at various concept art from ‘101 Dalmatians,’ and how it as incorporated into the scene they were talking about. Modern art, graphics, and design from “Sleeping Beauty” made “101 Dalmatians” possible. Disney Legend Ken Anderson helped lead the art direction and production design of ‘Dalmatians.’ Walt Peregoy, who recently passed away, was responsible for the color setting, which is very visible in the movie.
Of course, you can’t talk about “101 Dalmatians” without mentioning Cruella De Vil. Marc Davis, a Disney Legend in animation, came up with many different concepts for Cruella. He was the principal designer and animator for Cruella, and worked exclusively on her animation sequences. Nowadays, there is a team of animators working on one character. Having one animator work on one particular character exclusively gave them control over the look of the character, which rarely changed when Marc Davis was animating.
At the end of the 15 minute discussion, Cruella made an appearance, which had to be the highlight of the evening. She interacted with the audience, and was disgusted by what some people were wearing. “Cargo shorts? Flip flops? Those ear hats? What are you thinking? Come on, darling! Let Cruella help you!” Cruella also didn’t like what Tim and Andreas were wearing, so she gave them a “much needed makeover.” Tim and Andreas were good sports, which made this part hilarious!
Following Cruella’s appearance and “antics,” it was showtime! “101 Dalmatians” is one of my favorite animated films, not only because there’s a character named Roger, but also because the story is heartwarming and leaves you wanting more.
So when will the next Disneyland Annual Passholder animated feature be shown? I’m not sure, but it helps to follow @DisneylandAP on Twitter and Disneyland Annual Passholders on Facebook. You never know what will be shown.