Jim Capobianco: A Journey in Animation and Storytelling

Jim Capobianco, a graduate of the California Institute of the Arts, began his illustrious career in animation at Walt Disney Feature Animation, contributing to the storyboards of “The Lion King”. His talent soon led him to Pixar Animation Studios, where he played a significant role in shaping the stories of several critically acclaimed films. Over the past 19 years, Capobianco has left his mark on titles such as “Toy Story 2”, “Finding Nemo”, “UP”, and “Inside Out”.

Acclaimed Projects and Achievements

Capobianco’s exceptional skill in storytelling was recognized with a 2008 Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay for “Ratatouille”. He also directed “Your Friend The Rat”, included in the “Ratatouille” DVD, which won the 2008 ASIFA-Hollywood Annie Award for short films. Further showcasing his versatility, he directed the critically lauded end titles for Pixar’s 2008 release “Wall•E”.

Diversifying into Different Media

Expanding his creative horizons, Jim ventured into other forms of media. In 2009, he completed “Leonardo”, a short film now part of the permanent collection at the MoMA in New York City. Additionally, he has published children’s books and lent his voice to the character Gary Garbage in Netflix’s “GoGo Cory Carson”.

Contributions to Disney and Beyond

Capobianco’s expertise was sought in the 2D animation sequences of Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns”, where he served as the animation sequence director with Aerial Contrivance Workshop. He also wrote and directed the animated feature film “The Inventor”, a story about Leonardo da Vinci’s influence on the Renaissance in France.

Extensive Filmography

Capobianco’s filmography is a testament to his diverse talents and includes:

  • Aerial Contrivance Workshop: Writing, directing, and producing “The Inventor”; directing story and animation for “Philharmonia Fantastique”; and creating “Leonardo”;
  • Netflix: Voicing Gary Garbage Truck in “Go Go Cory Carson”;
  • Disney Motion Pictures: Directing animation sequences in “Mary Poppins Returns”;
  • Pixar: Contributing storyboards to “A Bug’s Life”, “Toy Story 2”, “Finding Nemo”, “Ratatouille”, “Up”, “Inside Out”, “Finding Dory”, and “Coco”; writing and directing “Your Friend the Rat”; and directing end credits for “Wall•E”;
  • Cartoon Saloon: Serving as a story consultant for “Song of the Sea”, “Breadwinner”, “Wolfwalkers”, and “My Father’s Dragon”;
  • Disney Feature Animation: Creating storyboards for “The Lion King”, “Hunchback of Notre Dame”, and “Fantasia 2000”.

Legacy and Influence

Jim Capobianco’s career is a remarkable example of creativity and innovation in the field of animation and storytelling. His diverse body of work, ranging from feature films to children’s books, showcases his unique ability to engage and captivate audiences of all ages. His influence extends beyond his filmography, inspiring a new generation of storytellers and animators in the industry.

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