Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Definition

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a classic animated musical film produced by Walt Disney Productions, released in 1937. It is notable for being the first full-length cel-animated feature in motion picture history and marked a significant turning point for animated films, combining music, storytelling, and visual artistry in a way that captivated audiences worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was released on December 21, 1937, and was a massive commercial success, earning over $8 million at the box office during its initial run.
2. The film features eight original songs, including the iconic 'Someday My Prince Will Come,' which became a staple of Disney's musical repertoire.
3. Walt Disney faced significant skepticism from investors who doubted that an animated feature could succeed, but its success established Disney as a leader in animation.
4. The movie utilized groundbreaking animation techniques, including the use of multi-plane cameras that created depth in the scenes, enhancing the visual experience.
5. Snow White's character was inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale and has since become an enduring symbol of innocence and beauty in popular culture.

Review Questions

• How did Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs impact the development of animated films in Hollywood?
  • Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs revolutionized the animation industry by proving that animated feature films could be both financially successful and artistically significant. It paved the way for future full-length animated films by showcasing the potential of combining storytelling with music and artistic innovation. The success of Snow White led to further investments in animation technology and storytelling techniques, ultimately establishing Walt Disney as a key player in Hollywood.
• Discuss the significance of music in Snow White and how it contributes to character development and storytelling.
  • Music plays a crucial role in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, as it enhances character development and storytelling. The songs not only reveal emotions but also provide insight into each character's personality. For example, Snow White's 'Someday My Prince Will Come' expresses her hope and dreams, while the dwarfs' lively 'Heigh-Ho' showcases their cheerful work ethic. This integration of music into the narrative helps to create a deeper connection between the audience and the characters.
• Evaluate how Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs set new standards for future animated films regarding technology and narrative structure.
  • Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs set new standards for future animated films by pioneering technological innovations such as the multi-plane camera that added depth to scenes. This breakthrough allowed for more dynamic visuals compared to earlier animations. Additionally, it established a narrative structure that incorporated musical elements seamlessly into character arcs and plot development. The combination of compelling storytelling, relatable characters, and musicality became a template that influenced countless animated features that followed, shaping the landscape of animated cinema.

Related terms

Disney Animation: The style of animated films produced by Walt Disney Studios, known for its whimsical storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative animation techniques.

Musical Film: A film genre that incorporates songs sung by the characters as part of the narrative, enhancing emotional depth and engagement through music.

Cels: Transparent sheets used in traditional animation where artists would draw individual frames to create the illusion of movement.