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Floyd Norman: An Animated Life

Play trailer Poster for Floyd Norman: An Animated Life 2016 1h 28m Documentary Play Trailer Watchlist
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94% Tomatometer 16 Reviews 75% Popcornmeter 250+ Ratings
Animator Floyd Norman became the first Disney African-American animator in 1956. After Walt's death, Mr. Norman left Disney to start his own company to produce black history films for high schools.
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Floyd Norman: An Animated Life

Critics Reviews

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Jana Monji RogerEbert.com 09/21/2016
Directors Erik Sharkey and Michael Fiore have caught Norman's whimsical charm and his upbeat attitude. Go to Full Review
Frank Scheck The Hollywood Reporter 08/31/2016
It serves as an entertaining salute to an unsung figure whose considerable accomplishments well deserve recognition. Go to Full Review
Ken Jaworowski New York Times 08/25/2016
Floyd Norman doesn't think he's special. Many others know differently, and for those who need more proof, "Floyd Norman: An Animated Life" is delighted to supply it. Go to Full Review
Debbie Lynn Elias Behind The Lens 10/31/2019
[N]ot only do we look inside the life of Floyd Norman, but the history and world of animation, and the early inner workings of Disney. Go to Full Review
Leslie Combemale Cinema Siren 10/21/2019
A
It's easy to find much to appreciate in the way Norman's life is presented without too much interference by the filmmakers. Go to Full Review
Kayla Cobb Decider 12/20/2017
... it's really worth the watch. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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s r @ScottR 04/25/2020 Informative and insightful. It was all the better that it rose above petty politics. See more 06/28/2018 This movie gave me everything I could want from a documentary. I learned new things, was entertained and found a role model. I was just passing through Netflix looking for something, anything and came across this film. It began slowly, with the usual talking heads motif, but Floyd Norman's attitude, talent and lack of filter began to grab my attention. Interest in Disney, Pixar and general animation is a plus, but not necessary to enjoy this movie. An Animated Life manages to give the viewer data on Floyd Norman, Disney's early animation years (while Walt Disney was still alive) and even what makes an artist. There are discussions on corporate employment that will surprise the viewer in their direction. These discussions are as real and as vital as Floyd Norman himself. This is a well-edited and directed movie. Of course, that the primary attraction becomes Floyd Norman which as the film says, is an animator, a storyteller and a troublemaker. See more 06/08/2018 An amazing story. Brought out some genuine emotions from me. See more 03/04/2017 This movie will give you more than you expect. Yes, Floyd is Disney's first black hire. But that is nowhere near the whole story. He has been part of some of the most significant parts of animation. But that's not the whole story. You'll meet a man who has hit 80 and beyond, and still is the biggest kid in the industry while also remaining on the cutting edge when it comes to latest developments. And the story is told with live action and animation at the perfect pace. The only caveat? Be careful when you sip a drink as you watch! There are plenty of laughs along the way! See more 12/30/2016 The film doesn't feel as thorough an examination as one would want from a film about a Disney legend. B- See more 11/12/2016 Solidly enjoyable and uplifting view of a man who can serve as an inspiration for everyone when they reach 81. Had the privlidge of seeing it with Mr Norman himself and the filmmakers present. The pacing of the documentary is somewhat faltering towards the end and lost me twice, but overall an enjoyable watch. Must see for anyone looking at a profession in the arts. By the way, I'm left wondering whether Disney financed the film. Anyone care to weigh in on that one? See more Read all reviews
Floyd Norman: An Animated Life

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Movie Info

Synopsis Animator Floyd Norman became the first Disney African-American animator in 1956. After Walt's death, Mr. Norman left Disney to start his own company to produce black history films for high schools.
Director
Michael Fiore, Erik Sharkey
Producer
Michael Fiore
Distributor
FilmBuff
Production Co
Fiore Media Group
Genre
Documentary
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Aug 26, 2016, Limited
Release Date (Streaming)
Aug 26, 2016
Runtime
1h 28m
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