Return to Never Land (2002)

The crew took full advantage of the Disney Animation Research Library, studying the original film's resource materials with the glee of kids on Christmas morning. From Frank Thomas' sketches of Captain Hook to Milt Kahl's renderings of Peter Pan, the "Return to Never Land" animators were blessed with extraordinary blueprints.

"Being an animation nerd, I was in heaven," says Budd. "It was like going to a candy store, being able to see how the 'Nine Old Men' really tackled these characters."

Budd's crew found particular inspiration in a set of Kahl's drawings of Peter Pan rummaging through the nursery toy chest.

"That was a real find, because Milt Kahl perfectly captured Peter as a kid who is not handsome in classic terms — he's actually kind of homely — but is still quite appealing because he exudes fun," Budd says. "Peter is very ordinary looking with a bit of a pug nose, and that makes him kind of hard to draw. But Kahl's drawings made him very real and got you to focus on his boyish spirit. Finding that drawing was a breakthrough for us."

Further, Art Director Wendell Luebbe tapped an internal resource to obtain a very specific print of the original film that was restored to its 1950s glory. The crew meticulously studied and referenced the nuances of the presentation — particularly the film's staging and theatrical lighting — to better understand their artistic goals.

"In terms of lighting, they really threw logic to the wind and put light wherever they wanted," Budd explains. "It was liberating for us to see how they used lighting to force your eyes to exactly where the filmmakers wanted them to go.

"One thing that really stood out — and truly inspired us — was that the characters have an inner glow of light, and it was an amazing effect when played against a very dark background. That really helped to add to the magical quality of Peter Pan."

Still, technological advancements in moviemaking between 1953 and 2002 forced the filmmakers to find a unique balance in their quest. For starters, they had to decide when computer generated images would not intrude on the production's "old-fashioned values." Complex camera angles far beyond the scope of the 1950s allowed the "Return to Never Land" crew to push new animation boundaries, creating moves that would simultaneously feel organic and dynamic.

Walt Disney Animation Australia rose to the occasion. A 15-year collaboration with Walt Disney Television Animation has created numerous television series and some of the most popular video premieres in animation history, including "The Lion King II: Simba's Pride" and "The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea." The production of "Return to Never Land" represents the Australian studio's first theatrical release.

"I can not emphasize enough the contributions of Walt Disney Animation Australia," says Morrill. "With each production, Australia has reached new heights in artistry, and 'Return to Never Land' has truly raised the bar of excellence."

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