Kirk Wise, a highly acclaimed and accomplished American animator, director, and producer, has left an indelible mark on the world of animation, with a career that has spanned numerous years and has been deeply intertwined with the esteemed Disney organization.
Wise's academic trajectory began with his formative years spent at Palo Alto High School, where he laid the foundation for his future pursuits. His educational journey continued at the esteemed California Institute of the Arts, where he delved into the realm of character animation, honing his skills and acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the art form.
Wise's professional journey commenced with a stint as an animator on a selection of prominent projects during his formative years in the industry, showcasing his skills on the big screen through his work on The Brave Little Toaster, a beloved animated film, and Steven Spielberg's critically acclaimed television series Amazing Stories, specifically the episode "Family Dog", which garnered widespread acclaim.
As his expertise and reputation grew, Wise made the transition to the iconic Disney studio, where he initially began as an assistant animator on two notable productions: The Great Mouse Detective, a clever and captivating animated mystery, and Oliver & Company, a charming and entertaining animated musical.
However, Wise's aspirations and talents soon led him to shift his focus from animation to the story department, marking a significant milestone in his career and paving the way for future success and creative endeavors.
Gary Trousdale, a fellow CalArts alumnus, reunited with Wise in the story department, where they collaborated on a multitude of projects, including the animated features The Rescuers Down Under and The Prince and the Pauper.
Notable animation director, Gary Wise, continued his fruitful partnership with animator and director, Don Trousdale, to co-create two additional Disney feature films, including the critically acclaimed "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" and the action-packed "Atlantis: The Lost Empire". Furthermore, Wise expanded his creative horizons by lending his expertise to the English dubbing process of Hayao Miyazaki's internationally renowned animated masterpiece, "Spirited Away".
Wise's remarkable career has been a testament to his boundless creativity and multifaceted talents, as he has effortlessly transitioned between the roles of animator, director, and producer, leaving an indelible mark on the realm of animation that continues to reverberate to this very day.
Robert Wise was born on September 14, 1914, in Winchester, Indiana.
