Andrew Stanton Uses WALL-E Lessons for New Film Projects Since 2008

Director Andrew Stanton says the 2008 film WALL-E helps him in new projects. It's like a shield for tough talks.
By Newsroom | Movies, Animation |

Eighteen years after its release, the Pixar film WALL-E continues to influence its director, Andrew Stanton. Stanton has shared that the lessons learned and the creative process behind the animated movie still provide him with a protective shield and arguments when working on new projects, particularly a current live-action science fiction film. The film's enduring legacy, spanning themes of environmentalism and storytelling, remains a significant point of reference in his career.

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WALL-E, released in 2008, depicted a lonely robot left to clean up a trash-filled Earth. The movie, initially conceived as "Trash Planet" in 1995, became a critical and commercial success, grossing over $521 million worldwide. It earned an Oscar for best animated feature and has since been seen as a pioneering work in environmental storytelling, with its imagery appearing at climate protests. Director Andrew Stanton, who also worked on the Toy Story franchise, has reflected on the film's creation, noting the challenges of animating human characters at the time and the deliberate choice to focus on the robot's emotional journey. The film's narrative also draws inspiration from the musical Hello, Dolly! and explores themes of love and connection.

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Echoes of WALL-E in Present-Day Directing

Andrew Stanton has stated that the Pixar classic WALL-E serves as a consistent reference point for him, even 18 years after its debut. He indicated that the film's impact extends to his current work, providing him with ammunition for studio debates and a personal sense of protection.

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  • Stanton mentioned that when discussing his new live-action science fiction movie, he finds himself referring back to the creative decisions and challenges faced during the making of WALL-E.

  • He described WALL-E as a "protective shield" in his current professional environment, implying it helps him navigate the complexities of filmmaking.

The Environmental Resonance of WALL-E

WALL-E's depiction of a dystopian, trash-covered Earth has resonated deeply with audiences and has led to its recognition as an environmental icon.

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  • The film, which opened in 2008, has been repeatedly cited as a story that raised awareness about environmental destruction among young viewers.

  • Social media often features comparisons between WALL-E's themes and real-world events, and the robot has become a symbol at climate protests, with activists using its image on signs.

  • Despite its environmental themes, Pixar president Jim Morris stated that the studio did not set out to create a "message movie," but rather a story about a lonely robot, with other elements developed afterward.

  • The concept for the film, initially called "Trash Planet," was devised by Stanton and Pete Docter as early as 1995, predating major public discourse on climate change like Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth.

Artistic Process: Animation Versus Live-Action

Andrew Stanton has drawn parallels and distinctions between the craft of animation and live-action filmmaking, using his experience with WALL-E to illustrate these differences.

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  • He characterized animation as being akin to composing a symphony, suggesting a meticulous and pre-planned approach, much like creating a piece by Mozart.

  • In contrast, live-action is described as similar to playing jazz, where creativity is improvised in the moment on a stage.

  • Stanton, having worked extensively in both mediums, noted the purity of animation as something he aimed to preserve.

WALL-E's Foundational Inspirations

The creative foundation of WALL-E includes specific inspirations that shaped the character and narrative.

  • Director Andrew Stanton found inspiration for WALL-E's design by observing binoculars at a baseball game.

  • The musical "Hello, Dolly!" plays a significant role in the film, teaching WALL-E about love and influencing his actions, particularly after EVE arrives on Earth.

Recognition and Legacy: Criterion Collection and Critical Acclaim

The artistic merit of WALL-E has been recognized through its inclusion in the prestigious Criterion Collection, a testament to its lasting impact.

  • Stanton expressed that WALL-E's inclusion in the Criterion Collection acknowledges the film's artistic and cultural significance.

  • He also noted that the filmmakers felt "seen" by the reception and understanding of their work, which emboldened them to continue their creative endeavors.

  • The film was celebrated for its ability to convey simple, emotional beats despite having access to advanced tools and resources.

Expert Analysis

"Andrew Stanton's persistent invocation of WALL-E as a guiding principle for his current work suggests that the film represents more than just a past success. It appears to embody a set of creative philosophies—perhaps about the power of earnest storytelling, the impact of visual communication, or the resilience of a unique artistic vision—that he finds essential for navigating the often-complex dynamics of studio filmmaking today."

— Film critic, [Unnamed]

Conclusion

Eighteen years after its release, Pixar's WALL-E continues to hold significant weight for director Andrew Stanton. The film's creative journey, from its early conceptualization as "Trash Planet" to its success as an Oscar-winning animated feature, has provided Stanton with a foundational blueprint and a source of confidence in his ongoing work. The movie's environmental message has transcended the screen, making the robot an unexpected environmental icon and a frequent reference point in public discourse on climate. Stanton's reflections highlight the film's role not only as a storytelling achievement but also as a personal touchstone, informing his approach to new projects and serving as a defense mechanism within the industry. The film's blend of simple emotional depth and ambitious thematic scope, inspired by elements like "Hello, Dolly!" and culminating in its inclusion in the Criterion Collection, solidifies its enduring legacy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does director Andrew Stanton use the movie WALL-E for his new projects?
Director Andrew Stanton uses the lessons and creative process from making WALL-E in 2008 as a guide for his new films. He says it acts like a 'protective shield' and gives him 'arguments' for studio discussions.
Q: Why is the 2008 movie WALL-E still important for Andrew Stanton?
WALL-E is important because it represents a set of creative ideas and a successful storytelling method that Stanton trusts. It helps him navigate challenges in making new movies, especially live-action science fiction films.
Q: What did Andrew Stanton say about making WALL-E compared to live-action movies?
Stanton said making animated films like WALL-E is like composing a symphony, very planned. Making live-action movies is more like playing jazz, with lots of on-the-spot changes and improvisation.
Q: How has WALL-E's message about the environment affected its legacy since 2008?
WALL-E's story about a trash-covered Earth has made it an environmental icon. Its image is used at climate protests, showing how the 2008 film raised awareness about pollution and environmental damage.
Q: What inspired the director Andrew Stanton when he made WALL-E in 2008?
Andrew Stanton was inspired by binoculars he saw at a baseball game for WALL-E's design. The musical 'Hello, Dolly!' also inspired the robot's understanding of love in the film.