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Pixar’s Story Head Details Film Production Techniques

Free News Reader  ·  April 25, 2026

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Pixar's Story Head Details Film Production Techniques

  • Kelsey Mann, who joined Pixar Animation Studios in 2009, supervised the story for the 2013 film 'Monsters University,' overseeing a team of 5-8 artists.
  • Mann's presentation on February 27th at DePaul School of Cinematic Arts focused on the storytelling process for Pixar's upcoming movie 'Onward.'

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Pixar Animation Studios is renowned for its innovative approach to storytelling in animated films, and a recent presentation by one of its key executives offers a glimpse into their creative methods. Kelsey Mann, a veteran at Pixar, shared insights into the company’s story development process during an event at a Chicago-based film school. Mann, who has been with Pixar since 2009, previously led the story team for the successful 2013 release ‘Monsters University,’ where he managed a group of artists to shape the film’s narrative. His talk highlighted the collaborative and iterative nature of Pixar’s workflow, emphasizing how storyboarding and revisions play a crucial role in bringing characters and plots to life.

This discussion is particularly timely as it relates to Pixar’s latest project, ‘Onward,’ a fantasy adventure film that explores themes of brotherhood and magic. By revealing elements of Pixar’s process, such as the hands-on supervision of story artists and the integration of ancillary materials, Mann’s presentation underscores the studio’s commitment to high-quality storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide. This approach has contributed to Pixar’s string of box office successes, with films like ‘Monsters University’ grossing over $743 million globally. Understanding these techniques not only sheds light on the artistry behind animated features but also highlights the importance of creativity in the entertainment industry, potentially inspiring aspiring filmmakers and providing context for how major studios maintain their edge in a competitive market.

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