The upcoming release of Pixar's film "WALL-E" and the opening of the Toy Story Mania attraction on both coasts led me to revisit "The Pixar Story" on Starz tonight. If you haven't had the chance, find time to check it out. It will give any fan of not only their films but fans of animation and traditional, good ole' storytelling a new found appreciation for what they have accomplished. In an age when the dreams of our childhood seem to have been robbed by corporate giants, it's somewhat heartwarming to find that a company like Pixar can still exist.
They have made their reputation on doing simple stories that, to paraphrase Walt, are aimed not specifically at children or adults, but a place inside us all. The films released so far have drawn on the ideals and dreams of their Disney predecessors and found a wonderful balance of art and computer magic. Simultaneously keeping adults entertained without talking down to or pandering to kids, they have forged an unprecedented streak of both critically and financially successful films. There is an honesty and heart to the stories they tell and a strength of character in the people telling it that gives traditional 2D animation and theme park fans hope that the mighty Disney empire can find it's way with a little help from it's friends. 
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