Jeff Kurtti is a highly accomplished and versatile communicator, celebrated for his remarkable ability to effortlessly transition between and excel in a diverse array of mediums and formats. With a prolific publishing career spanning over three decades, Kurtti has authored more than thirty books, each one a testament to his remarkable storytelling abilities and in-depth knowledge of the world of pop culture and entertainment.
As a seasoned writer-director-producer, Kurtti has had the privilege of working on numerous award-winning documentaries, cementing his reputation as a master of his craft and a true expert in the field. His impressive portfolio is a reflection of his dedication to his work and his unwavering passion for storytelling.
Beyond his work in film and television, Kurtti is also a highly respected public speaker, host, and moderator, known for his engaging and informative presentations, as well as his ability to effortlessly facilitate conversations and debates on a wide range of topics.
Notable film historian and creative visionary, Robert Kurtti, leveraged his profound understanding of Hollywood's rich cinematic heritage to assume the roles of executive producer and key creative supervisor for the authoritative DVD editions of several iconic film masterpieces.
Noted video producer has had his work showcased on prestigious platforms, including the iconic "The Academy Awards" ceremony, Turner Classic Movies, and the beloved "The Wonderful World of Disney" programming. Furthermore, he has collaborated with renowned film historian Leonard Maltin to produce a highly acclaimed series of limited-edition DVDs, which have garnered significant attention for their unique offerings of vintage films and classic television series.
In the year 2009, Kurtti held a significant role as a producer for a highly acclaimed and critically praised feature-length documentary film, specifically "The Boys: The Sherman Brothers Story", which profoundly explored the remarkable songwriting partnership and creative endeavors of the renowned duo composed of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman.
One of the most complex and personally fulfilling projects undertaken by Kurtti was the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, a landmark institution that has garnered widespread acclaim since its grand opening in October 2009.
As the creative director, content consultant, and media producer for the museum's inaugural exhibit, Kurtti dedicated an impressive five-year period to bringing this ambitious project to life.
Throughout this time, Kurtti's multifaceted role allowed him to oversee the development of the exhibit's narrative, ensuring a seamless integration of engaging content, interactive displays, and immersive media elements.
The culmination of Kurtti's tireless efforts was the successful launch of the Walt Disney Family Museum, a testament to his vision, expertise, and unwavering dedication to preserving the rich legacy of Walt Disney and his family.
The museum's opening in October 2009 marked a significant milestone in Kurtti's career, as it provided a unique platform for sharing the fascinating story of Walt Disney's life and achievements with a global audience.
As the museum continues to attract visitors from around the world, Kurtti's contributions to the project serve as a lasting testament to his ability to bring complex ideas to life and inspire future generations of artists, innovators, and Disney fans alike.
In the year 2012, this individual took on the esteemed role of content consultant and media producer for Disney Japan and NHK, collaborating on the ambitious project of The Dream of Walt Disney, a touring exhibit that allowed audiences to immerse themselves in the legacy of the iconic filmmaker. His expertise was further showcased in 2013, as he served as a content consultant for the highly anticipated D23 Expo/Japan, a premier event celebrating Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. Currently, he is utilizing his exceptional skills as Curatorial and Creative lead on a groundbreaking international touring exhibition, which promises to captivate audiences worldwide with its innovative storytelling and captivating visuals.
Kurtti, a renowned freelance writer, has penned a plethora of books that have captivated readers worldwide. His impressive literary portfolio boasts a diverse range of titles, each one a testament to his exceptional storytelling abilities.
One of his most notable works is "The Great Movie Musical Trivia Book", a comprehensive and engaging guide that delves into the fascinating world of movie musicals. This book is a must-have for film enthusiasts and trivia buffs alike, offering a wealth of knowledge and insight into the art of movie making.
Another notable work is "A Bug's Life: The Making of an Epic of Miniature Proportions", a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the beloved animated film. This book provides an in-depth exploration of the production process, offering a unique glimpse into the world of animation and the creative minds behind it.
Kurtti's work also includes "What the Sea Teaches Us: The Crew of the Morning Light", a heartwarming and inspiring true story about the crew of the Morning Light, a sailing team that defied the odds to achieve their dreams. This book is a testament to the power of teamwork, perseverance, and the human spirit.
Furthermore, Kurtti has authored "The Art of The Princess and the Frog", a stunning visual guide that delves into the world of Disney's beloved animated film. This book is a must-have for fans of the movie, offering a wealth of behind-the-scenes information, concept art, and character designs.
In addition, Kurtti's literary portfolio includes "Disneyland Through The Decades", a nostalgic and captivating journey through the history of the iconic Disneyland theme park. This book is a must-have for anyone who has ever stepped foot into the Happiest Place on Earth, offering a unique glimpse into the park's evolution and growth over the years.
Lastly, Kurtti has also written "The Art of Tangled", a visually stunning guide that explores the world of Disney's modern classic. This book is a must-have for fans of the movie, offering a wealth of behind-the-scenes information, concept art, and character designs.
Throughout his body of work, Kurtti has demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft engaging and informative stories that captivate readers of all ages. His books are a testament to his skill as a writer and his passion for storytelling, and are sure to delight and inspire readers for years to come.
Kurtti has had a multifaceted career, serving as a show producer, script writer, and engaging guest speaker and moderator at the esteemed D23 Expo, where he has had the opportunity to share his expertise with a wide audience. In addition to his work at D23, Kurtti has also functioned as a consultant and guest speaker at the Experience Music Project, a renowned cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of music.
Furthermore, Kurtti has held the distinguished position of artist-in-residence at The Disney Institute, where he has been able to focus on his creative pursuits and share his knowledge with others. His impressive list of engagements also includes guest lectures at the Museum of the Rockies, Presidio Officer's Club, and The Walt Disney Family Museum, where he has brought his unique perspective and expertise to a diverse range of audiences.
In addition to his speaking engagements and lectures, Kurtti has also made significant contributions to the world of publishing, with his articles appearing in a variety of respected publications, including Widescreen Review, Collector's Showcase, Sketches, and Disney Twenty-Three.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Seattle, Kurtti's desire for a career in the dynamic world of film, television, and theatre led him to make the bold decision to relocate to California in the year 1983. This pivotal move marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, as he set his sights on making a name for himself in the competitive industry.
Upon his arrival in California, Kurtti quickly gained valuable experience as a production coordinator on the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Arts Festival. This prestigious event provided him with the opportunity to work alongside a talented team of professionals, honing his skills and building a network of contacts that would serve him well in the years to come.
Following his stint at the Olympic Arts Festival, Kurtti went on to spend two years as the trusted assistant to the president of California Institute of the Arts. During this period, he was privy to the inner workings of the esteemed institution, developing a deep understanding of the artistic and educational landscape in California.
For nearly three decades, from 1995 onwards, Frank Kurtti has been successfully building a career as a multifaceted author and creative consultant, leveraging his expertise to contribute to the development of captivating motion pictures, thrilling theatrical productions, and immersive themed entertainment experiences.
Before embarking on his freelance journey, Kurtti had the privilege of working for Walt Disney Imagineering, the renowned theme park design division of The Walt Disney Company, where he gained invaluable experience in crafting innovative and enchanting attractions.
Subsequently, Kurtti joined the Corporate Special Projects department of Disney, further honing his skills and expanding his knowledge in a variety of creative and strategic capacities.
Kurtti is an esteemed member of the esteemed Writers Guild of America West, a prestigious organization that showcases the exceptional talents of writers in the entertainment industry.
He resides in the charming town of Claremont, California, where he shares a loving home with his partner, Kenneth Martinez, a kind-hearted individual who brings joy and companionship to Kurtti's life.
Together, they are blessed with three delightful sons, Brendan, Joseph, and Mitchell, who bring immense happiness and fulfillment to their family.
