This week we take a look at another amazing shot done by Milt Kahl — a master who was truly at his prime here.
The shot in its entirety is simple, clear and highly definitive in its effective portrayal of a character and his state of mind. Scenes like this are rare today — they set the mood and personality of not only the character but the film itself. This scene, which occurs right at the beginning of the film, instantly establishes the charm of its characters in a story that elects an interesting take on who’s the pet and who’s the owner.
Hold #1 (Establishing shot)
Sequence #1 (Small Initial Action)
Hold #2 (First Pause)
Sequence #2 (First Major Action)
Hold #3 (Second Pause)
Sequence #3 (Second Major Action)
Hold #4 (Final Pause)
Sequence #4 (Final Concluding Action)
Hold #5 (Final Position)
It can be seen clearly that the entire shot is set up beautifully in “sections” — physical actions bookmarked between “holds” that define the mood or moment. All good animation that tells a story has this kind of breakdown (the exception being a reaction shot or a quick action cut).As always, the work of Milt Kahl displays all the weight, timing, spacing and arcs that define excellence in animation movement. The poses are visually distinctive yet appropriately define the character (in this case a dog) and his psychology. Note carefully my annotations on the changing head angles, the eye direction, and the forces of push and pull of the legs and body. They are evidence of deep knowledge and careful, thoughtful planning. All of it works perfectly with the voice over narrative and helps make this film one of the best Disney has ever produced.