Floyd Norman: An Animated Life

Released Aug 26, 2016

1 hr. 28 min.

Documentary

List

94%

16 Reviews

Tomatometer

75%

250+ Ratings

Audience Score

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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s r

Informative and insightful. It was all the better that it rose above petty politics.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

03/31/23

Full Review

Audience Member

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.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/15/23

Full Review

Audience Member

An amazing story. Brought out some genuine emotions from me.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

06/08/18

Full Review

Audience Member

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!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/21/23

Full Review

Audience Member

The film doesn't feel as thorough an examination as one would want from a film about a Disney legend. B-

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

02/07/23

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Audience Member

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?

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

11/12/16

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Michael Fiore

Director

Erik Sharkey

Director

Floyd Norman

Self

Whoopi Goldberg

Self

Leonard Maltin

Self

Gary Trousdale

Self

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Jana Monji

RogerEbert.com

Directors Erik Sharkey and Michael Fiore have caught Norman's whimsical charm and his upbeat attitude.

Sep 21, 2016

Full Review

Frank Scheck

Hollywood Reporter

It serves as an entertaining salute to an unsung figure whose considerable accomplishments well deserve recognition.

Aug 31, 2016

Full Review

Ken Jaworowski

New York Times

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.

Aug 25, 2016

Full Review

Debbie Lynn Elias

Behind The Lens

[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.

Oct 31, 2019

Full Review

Leslie Combemale

Cinema Siren

It's easy to find much to appreciate in the way Norman's life is presented without too much interference by the filmmakers.

Rated: A

Oct 21, 2019

Full Review

Kayla Cobb

Decider

... it's really worth the watch.

Dec 20, 2017

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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
Distributor: FilmBuff
Genre: Documentary
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Aug 26, 2016, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Aug 26, 2016