Mike Kim, my closest companion from high school days, was an extraordinary individual who embarked on his animation odyssey at an astonishingly early stage of his life. Born and raised in the picturesque city of Redlands, California, he was already honing his artistic skills in the realm of three-dimensional perspective and movement through an intensive regimen of research and self-study, meticulously pouring over the works of celebrated artists and animators. This remarkable feat was accomplished during the mid-1980s, a period characterized by limited access to the internet, thereby rendering his achievement all the more remarkable and praiseworthy.
Mike's enthusiasm and commitment to his craft started to gain widespread recognition from prominent animation studios during his teenage years, with influential entities such as The Powerpuff Girls and Ren & Stimpy actively seeking his involvement in their projects. As his skills and work ethic continued to evolve, he found himself building a strong network of connections with esteemed professionals within the industry by the time he graduated from California Institute of the Arts in Valencia, California.
Mike's extensive network of connections played a pivotal role in his transition into the realm of feature-length animation, enabling him to collaborate on numerous notable projects, including the iconic Rugrats and Clone Wars. His proficiency in 3D effects was highly coveted, and he was one of the primary animators entrusted with the responsibility of crafting the innovative 3D effects utilized in the revitalized version of Star Wars IV: A New Hope.
As he recounted the experience to me, Mike described the tense atmosphere as he sat alongside George Lucas during a private screening of the film, with an eerie silence prevailing until the credits rolled and Lucas spontaneously praised Mike's work, breaking the silence with a gesture of admiration.
Mike's remarkable career in animation was marked by a plethora of groundbreaking achievements, with his work on films such as Horton Hears a Who and The Lorax serving as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the art form.
Initially, Mike harbored reservations regarding the reception of The Lorax, his concerns stemming from the less-than-stellar performance of Horton, a film that had failed to resonate with audiences. However, his apprehensions were ultimately alleviated as The Lorax went on to generate a respectable $50 million in domestic box office revenue.
Mike's involvement in the Despicable Me series is a shining example of his enduring talent and dedication to his craft, a quality that has endeared him to fans and critics alike.
Michael, a singularly remarkable individual, consistently showcased a profound level of intellect and sagacity, far surpassing his age. His fervent dedication to the world of animation was rivaled only by his gracious and unassuming demeanor, rendering him an exemplary companion and an awe-inspiring figure to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Michael's biography:
Michael was born on a sunny day in April, in a small town surrounded by rolling hills and lush green forests. As a child, he spent countless hours exploring the outdoors, developing a deep appreciation for nature and its wonders. His parents, both artists themselves, encouraged his creative pursuits, and Michael soon discovered his passion for drawing and storytelling.
As he grew older, Michael's talent and dedication to his craft only intensified. He spent hours honing his skills, pouring over books and tutorials, and experimenting with different techniques. His hard work and perseverance paid off, as he began to receive recognition for his work, both locally and nationally.
Despite his many accomplishments, Michael remained humble and kind, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement to those around him. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine passion for animation inspired countless others, and he became a beloved figure in the animation community.
Throughout his life, Michael's love for animation never wavered, and he continued to create and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on the world of animation and beyond.
