There are moments in life that transcend the ordinary, becoming vivid memories etched in your mind forever. For me, one such truly unforgettable experience was the privilege of attending a drawing class led by none other than legendary Disney Animator, Mark Henn. To this day, the sheer disbelief and thrill of that encounter give me chills, not least because my own artistic abilities are, charitably speaking, non-existent. It was more than just a class; it was an immersive dive into the heart of Disney magic, guided by a true master.
The name Mark Henn resonates with millions, a quiet force behind some of the most iconic and beloved characters in cinematic history. He served as the directing animator and supervising animator for “Ariel” in Disney’s groundbreaking The Little Mermaid, a film that ushered in a new golden age for Disney Animation. But his incredible talent didn’t stop there. His indelible touch brought to life the elegant “Belle” in Beauty and the Beast, the spirited “Princess Jasmine” in Aladdin, the adventurous “Young Simba” in The Lion King, and the heroic title character in Mulan. These are just a handful of the remarkable projects he has shaped. A quick glance at his extensive filmography reveals a treasure trove of Disney masterpieces, a testament to his profound influence on the studio’s animated legacy, with over 35 animation credits for major Disney feature films.
An Unforgettable Conversation and Drawing Session with Disney Animator Mark Henn
To sit down with Mark Henn was truly one of those pinch-me moments, an experience that felt almost surreal. He exuded a genuine warmth and humility, sharing candid insights into his remarkable journey as a Disney animator, a career spanning over 38 illustrious years. What struck me most was his openness about the monumental shifts within the animation industry, a transformation he witnessed and actively participated in, moving from the traditional artistry of 2D hand-drawn animation to the complex world of computer-generated imagery.
His career trajectory is a living testament to adaptability and enduring passion. Mark Henn has not only observed the industry evolve from pencils and paper to digital tablets and sophisticated software, but he has masterfully adapted his skills at every turn. As I listened, captivated, to him speak about continuously nurturing his passion for animation amidst rapid technological advancements, I found myself profoundly inspired. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing change, especially in dynamic fields like our own, where innovation is constant and swift.
Instead of succumbing to frustration or resisting the inevitable march of progress, Mark Henn chose to embrace and evolve with it. He stands as a beacon for how to navigate such transitions, seamlessly integrating new techniques while never losing sight of the fundamental principles of character animation. Today, he plays a crucial role in supervising the next generation of Disney animators, meticulously passing down the invaluable knowledge and timeless wisdom he acquired from the revered “old school” Disney masters. This ongoing mentorship is vital; it ensures that the unique artistic legacy of Disney endures, guaranteeing that the characters we cherish continue to be imbued with that special blend of magic, emotion, and unparalleled visual appeal.
His insights into the creative process were equally compelling. Mark elaborated on the meticulous craft of bringing a character to life, explaining that whether it’s through traditional cel animation or cutting-edge CGI, the core principles remain the same: understanding emotion, perfecting movement, and creating a believable personality. He emphasized that technology is merely a tool; the heart of animation lies in storytelling and genuine connection. This philosophy has allowed him to transition gracefully, proving that true artistry transcends medium. It was fascinating to hear him describe how he maintains the integrity of character design across different animation styles, ensuring that Ariel’s spirit, for example, is instantly recognizable, regardless of the technological advancements since her original creation.
The drawing class itself was an extraordinary experience. Watching Mark Henn effortlessly sketch iconic characters, his hand moving with a fluidity born of decades of practice, was mesmerizing. He demystified the process, breaking down complex forms into simple shapes, and sharing tips that even a novice like myself could grasp. It wasn’t just about drawing lines; it was about understanding character anatomy, expression, and the subtle nuances that convey emotion. He patiently guided us through the steps, making everyone feel like they could, for a moment, tap into a piece of that Disney magic. The atmosphere was one of shared wonder, as participants from all walks of life attempted to replicate the effortless strokes of a legend.
Celebrate a Classic: The Little Mermaid Walt Disney Signature Collection
In a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy and the artistry of creators like Mark Henn, The Little Mermaid Walt Disney Signature Collection made its official digital debut on February 12, 2019, followed by its release on Blu-ray/DVD on February 26, 2019. This landmark release commemorated the film’s 30th anniversary, a testament to its timeless appeal and its pivotal role in reigniting the magic of Disney animation.
This special edition of “The Little Mermaid” dives deep into the heart of what made the film an instant classic. It proudly showcases its two-time Academy Award®-winning musical score (Best Original Score and Best Original Song “Under the Sea,” 1989), allowing audiences to experience the enchanting melodies and vibrant rhythms that define Ariel’s underwater world. Beyond the pristine audio and visual restoration, the Signature Edition introduces all-new bonus features and an immersive sing-along mode, inviting viewers to actively participate in the beloved tale.
The inclusion of a sing-along mode transforms the viewing experience into an interactive celebration, enabling fans of all ages to join Ariel, Sebastian, and the entire cast of colorful characters in their iconic musical numbers like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World.” It’s an opportunity to connect with the film on a deeper, more joyful level, reliving the magic of its unforgettable songs.
But the celebration doesn’t end there. The Signature Collection boasts an impressive array of never-before-seen bonus features designed to delight both long-time fans and new admirers. One particularly captivating feature brings together legendary composer Alan Menken with some of Disney’s most recognizable leading ladies – the very voices behind iconic princesses – around a piano. They reminisce, sing, and celebrate the monumental impact of “The Little Mermaid” and the characters it inspired.
Further enriching the collection, the latest installment of “Stories from Walt’s Office” draws fascinating parallels between Walt Disney’s personal love for collecting treasures and Ariel’s own fascination with human artifacts. Viewers are also granted an intimate, inside look at the original recording sessions of “The Little Mermaid” cast, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process. Beyond this, the collection invites audiences to explore hidden treasures and fun facts about the film, and enjoy a breathtaking special performance of “Part of Your World” by the acclaimed a cappella singing sensation, DCapella. Plus, fans will gain access to hours of additional classic bonus features, making this truly the definitive edition of a beloved masterpiece.
Unveiling the Treasure Chest: ALL-NEW Bonus Features in Detail
The Walt Disney Signature Collection is renowned for its commitment to preserving and enhancing the legacy of Disney’s animated classics. This edition of “The Little Mermaid” is no exception, offering a wealth of supplemental content that delves into the film’s creation and cultural impact.
BLU-RAY & DIGITAL EXCLUSIVES:
- Sing-Along Mode – Immerse yourself in the musical brilliance of “The Little Mermaid” with this interactive feature, allowing you to follow the lyrics on-screen and sing along to every unforgettable song, from the playful “Kiss the Girl” to the empowering “Part of Your World.”
- Alan Menken & the Leading Ladies Song – This truly special feature gathers a pantheon of Disney legends: Alan Menken (composer), Jodi Benson (Ariel), Paige O’Hara (Belle), Judy Kuhn (Pocahontas Singing Voice), Lillias White (Calliope), and Donna Murphy (Mother Gothel). Join them as they celebrate the music that shaped their iconic roles, sharing personal memories of collaborating with Alan, discussing the profound legacy of being a Disney Princess or leading lady, and creating new magic by performing together around a baby grand piano. It’s a rare and moving tribute to Disney’s musical heritage.
- “What I Want From You…Is YOUR VOICE” – Step behind the scenes and into the recording studio to witness the incredible talent and dedication of “The Little Mermaid” cast during their original recording sessions. This intimate look reveals the raw emotion and vocal mastery that brought Ariel, Ursula, Sebastian, and all the beloved characters to life.
- Stories From Walt’s Office – Gadgets & Gizmos – In this fascinating third episode of the series, explore the parallels between Ariel’s trove of “thingamabobs” and Walt Disney’s own eclectic collections. Discover how Walt’s passion for miniatures and early mechanical figures not only adorned his office but also inspired groundbreaking innovations like audio-animatronics.
- #TreasuresUntold – Join Disney Channel stars Ruby Rose Turner and Olivia Sanabia from “Coop and Cami Ask the World” as they embark on a playful deep dive into “The Little Mermaid.” They’ll uncover little-known facts, fascinating trivia, and hidden gems that even the most avid fans might have missed, adding a layer of fresh discovery to the classic.
- DCapella “Part of Your World” Music Video – Experience a vibrant and contemporary rendition of Ariel’s iconic “I Want” song, performed by the sensational a cappella group, DCapella. Their unique vocal harmonies breathe new life into this beloved classic, offering a fresh perspective while honoring its original magic.
- Classic Bonus Features – Revisit a selection of highly acclaimed bonus features from previous releases, offering a comprehensive look into the making of the film, including:
- Deleted Character: Harold The Merman – Discover a character that almost made it into Ariel’s undersea world and learn why he ultimately didn’t make the final cut.
- Under The Scene: The Art Of Live Action Reference – Explore the intricate process of how live-action reference footage was utilized to inform and enhance the animators’ work, particularly in capturing realistic human and underwater movement.
- Howard’s Lecture – A tribute to the genius of Howard Ashman, the brilliant lyricist and co-producer, whose vision profoundly shaped the film’s musical narrative and emotional depth.
- Audio Commentary With Ron Clements, John Musker and Alan Menken – Gain unparalleled insights into the film’s creation as the directors and composer share their experiences, creative decisions, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
DIGITAL EXCLUSIVES:
- “Part of Your World” – A 30-Year Retrospective – Join songwriter Alan Menken and Jodi Benson, the incomparable acting and singing voice of Ariel, as they reflect on the enduring impact of “Part of Your World.” This quintessential Disney “I Want” song has resonated with generations, and this retrospective explores its legacy three decades after its debut.
- Classic Bonus Features – Unlock over 3 additional hours of previously released classic bonus features, providing an even deeper dive into the world of “The Little Mermaid,” including deleted scenes, delightful Easter eggs, iconic music videos, and much more, offering countless hours of entertainment and discovery.
*Bonus features may vary by retailer
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Disclaimer: Disney generously covered my travel expenses to attend the press event in Los Angeles, CA for Ralph Breaks the Internet. Rest assured, all thoughts and opinions expressed herein are entirely my own and reflect my genuine experiences.