Who Plays The Old Man At The Beginning Of Disney’s Short?

Burny Mattinson’s quick moment at the beginning of «Once Upon a Studio» symbolizes more than just a way to put a Disney legend in front of the camera. During a Q&A discussion attended by Looper, the creatives behind the short film talked about how it also represents a passing of the torch. It’s no coincidence that Mattinson is walking out of the Disney animation studio with a younger employee. «Once Upon a Studio» may pay tribute to the past, but it’s also about looking toward the future. Mattinson helped shape Disney animation for decades, and even though he’s gone now, there’s a new generation of animators and storytellers to keep his spirit alive.

The idea of passing the torch is seen later in the short film when all of the cartoon characters come together to take a picture. Characters from over the past 100 years sing a song, and all of them are in their original animation style; some are hand-drawn, while others are in 3D. And «Once Upon a Studio» isn’t the only way Mattinson gets honored this year. The upcoming «Wish,» which is also a celebration of 100 years of Disney, will be dedicated to his memory. With a blending of animation styles and a story referencing past Disney stories, namely with the personification of a wishing star, «Wish» can be seen as a sister project to «Once Upon a Studio.» They honor 100 years of stories and, hopefully, 100 years of animation to come. 

«Once Upon a Studio» premieres on ABC on October 15 at 8/7c.