Frank & Ollie teaching - The Illusion Of Life: Disney Animation

This rare excerpt comes from *Animation Fascination*, a one-hour television special originally aired in 1983 as part of the Disney Studio Showcase. Hosted by Disney Legends Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston—two of Walt Disney’s famed “Nine Old Men”—the program offered an intimate look at the secrets behind “the illusion of life.”

In this classroom segment, Frank and Ollie introduce their groundbreaking 1981 book *Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life*, then guide a group of young students and animators through the principles of animation. They demonstrate the use of live-action reference in character animation and explain how it differs from rotoscoping—a question students often ask.

Among the participants is a young Joe Ranft (1960–2005), who stands up to deliver a wonderfully funny walk demonstration—capturing the spirit of animation in motion.

*In memory of our teachers and mentors:*
Frank Thomas (1912 – 2004)
Ollie Johnston (1912 – 2008)
and our dear friend Joe Ranft (1960 – 2005) — the young man who stands up to do the funny walk.

*A very special thanks* to our inspirator and master animator Andreas Deja, who has provided the original take of this video and continues to open the vault to Disney Animation history.
For much more on Disney Animation and the Nine Old Men, please visit "Deja View" — andreasdeja.blogspot.com

*Original U.S. Air Dates (Disney Studio Showcase):*
• July 12, 1983 – 11:00 AM
• July 14, 1983 – 9:00 PM
• July 16, 1983 – 4:00 PM
• July 24, 1983 – 11:00 AM
• August 13, 1983 – 4:00 PM

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