Thanks so much for the kind words! As for Moonbird, the Hubleys had already been on the Oscar radar for a few years -- several of their earlier indie films had been under Oscar consideration without receiving a nomination. John Hubley was a multi-time nominee during his tenure at UPA. So, the Academy already had some interest in what the Hubleys were doing before Moonbird won. It's still possible that there were changes in the jury that made the difference, but the Academy was likely going to *see* the film one way or another.
Regarding Taniguchi, that's a very good point. It would be fascinating to see more manga adapted by overseas teams -- especially in Europe. Here's hoping!
All very true. The nature of studio animation was changing at the same time that the Hubleys were putting independent cartoons on the map. Combine that with America's growing awareness of foreign animation, plus the rise of outsourcing, and you've got a complicated stew. Moonbird's win was incredibly important, but it was part of a larger story playing out -- some of which we've written about before or plan to write about in the future.
Anyway, thanks again -- we really appreciate the insightful comments!
Ed Smith told me that Hubley calling his name from the Oscar podium was the proudest moment of his life.
What a wonderful anecdote. And a well-deserved honor, after the work he did on this film. Thank you, Richard!
Thanks so much for the kind words! As for Moonbird, the Hubleys had already been on the Oscar radar for a few years -- several of their earlier indie films had been under Oscar consideration without receiving a nomination. John Hubley was a multi-time nominee during his tenure at UPA. So, the Academy already had some interest in what the Hubleys were doing before Moonbird won. It's still possible that there were changes in the jury that made the difference, but the Academy was likely going to *see* the film one way or another.
Regarding Taniguchi, that's a very good point. It would be fascinating to see more manga adapted by overseas teams -- especially in Europe. Here's hoping!
All very true. The nature of studio animation was changing at the same time that the Hubleys were putting independent cartoons on the map. Combine that with America's growing awareness of foreign animation, plus the rise of outsourcing, and you've got a complicated stew. Moonbird's win was incredibly important, but it was part of a larger story playing out -- some of which we've written about before or plan to write about in the future.
Anyway, thanks again -- we really appreciate the insightful comments!