Pixar Post Podcast: Animation News, Interviews & Reviews – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of the Pixar Post Podcast, we dive into the superb box office totals that Inside Out 2 has achieved so far. We'll share the exact amount we predict the film will earn at the box office (spoiler – T.J.'s estimate calculator says $1,447,436,846).

We'll also discuss Julie's trip to Pixar Animation Studios and why the Inside Out 2 visit may have been her favorite press event yet.

Following the trip, we summarize three recent articles (Bloomberg, Time, and EW) that dive into the future of Pixar's feature films and Disney+ productions.

Finally, we discuss Lewis Black's recent comments from his podcast (Link to Episode 178 on Apple Podcasts) about Pixar's paychecks and how the films give actors a certain level of immortality.

• After our brief intro (54 seconds), T.J. asks Julie her first Pixar trivia question: What team were the Foghorns playing at the beginning of Inside Out 2?
• 8:10 — Inside Out 2 has been a smash at the box office. Listen in as we discuss the film's current success and why we think it will end up as the second-highest-grossing animated film of all time.
• 21:00 — One of our posts was mentioned on the Drew Barrymore TV show when discussing Inside Out 2.
• 29:36 — We briefly touch on the heartbreaking news of Pixar's layoffs.
• 33:54 — Julie summarizes her trip to Pixar Animation Studios to cover Inside Out 2.
• 1:04:14 — We summarize and dive into 3 recent articles that discuss Pixar's future in making feature films and series for Disney+. Along with the summary, we also share our thoughts and some insights we know.
• 1:22:27 — Toy Story 5 and the mention of Andrew Stanton surprised Pixar fans, but is it true? Yes, but it's not the whole truth.
• 1:29:54 — Elio. We briefly talk about the future of the other-worldly film and Domee Shi's involvement.
• 1:33:42 — Inside Out 2 should be all over shelves, but is it? Not from what we've seen.
• 1:40:04 — Enrico Casarosa is working on a new original film. Will it be discussed at the upcoming D23 Expo on August 8-10, 2024?
• 1:43:53 — Discussions about the Dream Productions series (Inside Out-themed) as well as Win or Lose.
• 1:52:35 — Lewis Black shares his thoughts (they're not angry sentiments) about getting a reduced paycheck for voicing a Pixar character. It may shed some light on the earlier Bill Hader and Mindy Kaling contract issues.

As we celebrate the 12th anniversary of starting our website (March 25, 2012), we wanted to celebrate by bringing back the Pixar Post Podcast.

We started the podcast in 2013 and paused recording episodes at the beginning of 2020, but we always felt we had more to say. We're thrilled to be back leading up to the release of Inside Out 2 in June and will share some upcoming details from the artists—stay tuned.

Here are a few of the exciting topics we discussed during the episode.

• Kicking off the show, we reminisce about our website's 12th anniversary. We talk about our custom Partysaurus Rex toy that started it all, seeing the first Dolby Atmos film (Brave), and the history of our logos.
• At 40:14 into the show, we talk about Pixar Animation Studios. We discuss what we want to stay the same at Pixar Animations Studios and what we want to see change in the future.
  • What to do with the "special features" now that DVD sales have slowed.
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  • We want fewer human characters and more cars, fish, or toys.
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  • The pressures of Disney corporate and sequels.
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  • Don't chase varying trendy styles like Spider-Verse or TMNT.
• At 1 hour and 18 minutes into the show, we discuss some Pixar (and adjacent) news centering around Monsters at Work season 2, seeing Soul, Turning Red, and Luca in theaters, and our thoughts on A Real Bug's Life. Additionally, we touch on Pixar at the Disney parks, Inside Out 2 (upcoming press event), and Win or Lose.

In Episode 63 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we discuss Pixar's SparkShorts (and offer our rankings of Purl, Smash & Grab, and Kitbull). In addition, we talk about if Pixar will continue to release feature film short films — especially since we haven't heard anything about a short film for Toy Story 4. We also discuss Toy Story 4 news and when will the next trailer be released (you know, the one that's been rumored for a long time), the trailer which was shown at the Disney Annual Shareholder meeting, the upcoming book releases, and toy releases. Also, we chat about the possibility of starting a Patreon, we expand on the return of our podcast and how to listen to the episode with chapters to skip sections.

In episode 62 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we chat with Toby Chu, the wonderful composer of Pixar's short film, Bao. Additionally, we discuss the Pete Docter impersonator on Twitter (to kick off the show), Purl, the second short film in Pixar's Experimental Storytelling initiative (at 5:21 into the episode), and the box office successes that Incredibles 2 has achieved (11:18). Incredibles 2 is currently the third highest grossing animated film of all time, will it reach Frozen to become the top animated film? We break down the numbers.

The main portion of the interview is our interview with Bao composer, Toby Chu (16:23). It was so great talking to Toby as we learned about his origins and passion for music, how he turned "no" into motivation to continue trying, and how the short film mirrored his life so closely. Did you know that he had to submit a demo for Bao? We get geeky about Pixar and discussed how much it meant to him that he was involved with the project, what it was like walking into the studio, and working with Domee Shi and Becky Neiman-Cobb (among others).

In episode 61 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we share our spoiler-free review of the action-packed, Incredibles 2, as well as dive into the deep topic of John Lasseter's departure from the Walt Disney Company & Pixar at the end of 2018. 

We talk candidly about our thoughts on John Lasseter's departure from the studio in the first half of the episode, while the back half of the show is our feedback regarding Incredibles 2 (a recording straight outside of the theater with our friend, Giovanni).

In episode 60 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we share our complete interview with Ralph Eggleston (Production Designer), Bryn Imagire (Shading Art Director), Philip Metschan (Visual Designer) and Nathan Farris (Sets Supervisor) as we dive into how the team created the worlds of Incredibles 2.

Earlier, we shared an article that dove into how the team created the Parr's new home in the film and now we're going to share the entire 40-minute interview that explores the home, the cities in the film, as well as the research behind the design choices which were made.

At the beginning of the episode, we chat about all-things Incredibles 2 (no surprise) and highlight the Pixar Post Forum and the breadth of conversations going on — from sharing bus advertisements, to concerns about continuity between the two films, if you haven't signed up or shared your views, check it out.

Next up, we discuss the Incredibles 2 soundtrack being available for pre-order as well as our thoughts on Michael Giacchino's punny titles.

We also follow up on two recent posts that we completed where we dove into The Art of Incredibles 2 book as well as some early Easter Eggs which have been spotted in the film (the reused Chinese food takeout box and the famed A113 has been spotted).

There are quite a few early-screening opportunities for Incredibles 2 and we list out at least 18 different choices you have - (D23 Gold Member Gatherings, D23 Gold Member Complimentary Tickets, AMC Double-Feature tickets and even some options at AMC IMAX theaters as early as June 6.

Before we get to the main interview with the Pixar crew, we also shared details on the amazing marketing of the Parr family home listing on Zillow.

The main portion of this episode (starting at 30:20) is our interview with Ralph Eggleston (Production Designer), Bryn Imagire (Shading Art Director), Philip Metschan (Visual Designer) and Nathan Farris (Sets Supervisor).

Listen in as they share wonderful details about how they held back the animation quality of the new film at the very opening of the film so it wouldn't be as visually jarring if someone watched The Incredibles and immediately wanted to turn on Incredibles 2. They also discuss some amazing details about how the crafted complete cities for the film (even some buildings in the background).

In episode 59 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we share our complete interview with Incredibles 2 writer/director, Brad Bird and Producers Nicole Grindle and John Walker. Along with the interview we share our thoughts on our two-day visit to Pixar Animation Studios earlier in April to discuss the film. We talk about many of the insights and details we learned as well as our high-level thoughts on the 22 minutes of footage we screened.

Throughout the podcast, you'll learn about many details of the film's process, from the reason why the Incredibles family has the powers they do, to why the film swapped release dates with Toy Story 4. Additionally, you'll hear as we inquired which returning vocal actors (and which new vocal actors) really knocked it out of the park and why the film didn't have a time jump (since it picks up right where the first film left off). Oh, and have you ever wondered if you'll see Honey (Frozone's wife) in Incredibles 2? Listen for all the fantastic details.

Check out even more details regarding our visit to the Studio on our homepage, PixarPost.com.

Pixar Post - T.J. & Julie

In episode 058 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we continue our interview series from the two-day Coco press event where we talk with Co-Director and Screenwriter, Adrian Molina, as well as Lead Story Artist, Dean Kelly. We share the full audio from the 30-minute discussion with the duo as they shared what worked with the film early on, what didn't work, and even provide some facts about the Dia de los Muertos heritage (and how the tradition fits into the film). Note that there are some light spoilers in the podcast — nothing about the plot is revealed, but insights into the film and its creation are discussed. (Read below for a summarized view of the questions answered in the session.)

Listen to the Podcast using the player embedded below or directly on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe and enjoy directly on iTunes, Stitcher, or Overcast.

• Kicking off the show we start with some Coco-themed trivia and then dive into the latest Coco news. 
• • One of the main songs from the film, Remember Me, will be featured during the October 16 episode of Dancing With The Stars (Disney-themed night).
  • For Your Consideration - Coco is hopeful to be included in the Best Picture category at this year's Oscars.
  • November 3 will see a sneak peek of Coco coming to Disney World and Disneyland parks.
  • Pixar's first Virtual Reality experience will be centered around a Coco-themed game.
  • Although we'll do a full video review soon, we give our quick overview of the first batch of Coco-themed books which hit shelves on October 10.
  • We also give our take on the most recent Coco merchandise which hit the Disney Store website - how can you resist Alejibre Dante?
  • Southwest Airlines recently decked out a 737-700 airplane in full Coco styling (with a logo, artwork and will even offer a live concert in the sky).
• Cars 3 news
• • Just a quick reminder that the digital version of the film comes out on October 24 and the 4K/HD/DVD version hits stores on November 7 - read the full list of special features here.
  • We continue to expand on how much we love the demolition derby scene in the film and how we could watch it over-and-over again...in fact, you can watch the entire scene on Pixar's Twitter feed!
• Incredibles 2 news
• • JAKKS Pacific was recently announced as the manufacturer of the upcoming film's toy line.
• We also discuss our thoughts on the new Movies Anywhere video service and the closure of Disney Movies Anywhere.

Listen in as we chat with Coco's Co-Director and Screenwriter, Adrian Molina, as well as Lead Story Artist, Dean Kelly. The duo touches on the challenges the story department faces, how they pushed through blocks to find a story that worked and provided some insights into earlier versions of the story.

Be sure to let us know your thoughts on the podcast by leaving a comment on iTunes, writing a comment below or sending us an email — we'd love to hear from you.

Pixar Post - T.J. & Julie

In episode 057 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we bring you to Pixar Animation Studios for the Coco press event and we dive into our experience at the two-day event. We also share the full audio from the 30-minute filmmaker roundtable discussion with Lee Unkrich (Director), Darla K. Anderson (Producer), and Adrian Molina (Co-Director). Note that there are some light spoilers in the podcast — nothing about the plot is revealed, but insights into the film and its creation are discussed. (Read below for a summarized view of the questions answered in the session.)

Listen to the Podcast using the player embedded below or directly on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe and enjoy directly on iTunes, Stitcher, or Overcast.

• Kicking off the show we start with our discussion highlighting Julie's trip to Pixar, noting the highlights from visiting the studio (including the store), her thoughts on the 35-minute screening, and our feedback on the roundtable interview.

1. How many references are there to The Shining in Coco?
2. What other movies influenced how the afterlife was depicted in Coco?
3. How would you like Mexican communities and cultures to view the film?
4. Was there any concern with the number of characters in the film?
5. What is Miguel's character arc? (Not answered)
6. Will people feel left out since there are moments of untranslated Spanish throughout the film?
7. Are there Mexican historical figures in the film?
8. Where did the idea for the film come from and were there concerns since you're not Latino?
9. What role did the cultural consultants play that you brought on?
10. Will John Ratzenburger still lend his vocal talents to the film (even though it's an all-Latin cast)?
11. Much like other Pixar films, are there still subtle lighting cues which signify struggle and success even though the film contains a lot of darkness?
12. The film is elaborate in size and scale, did the studio ever say "no" to something on the film because it was too expensive?
13. Were there a lot of new programs which had to be created to accommodate the film's production?

Be sure to let us know your thoughts on the podcast by leaving a comment on iTunes, writing a comment below or sending us an email — we'd love to hear from you.

Pixar Post - T.J. & Julie

In episode 056 of the Pixar Post Podcast, we discuss Disney's additional stake in BAMtech, Cars 3 box office results, Coco news, and much more.

Listen to the Podcast using the player embedded below or direct on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe and enjoy directly on iTunes, Stitcher, or Overcast.

• Kicking off the show we start with some Pixar trivia — asking, what are the similarities between WALL-E and R2-D2 from Star Wars.
• Disney Streaming — we dive into the we news of Disney purchasing additional stake in the company, BAMtech. We talk about what this means for the Netflix deal Disney signed a few years ago and how it fits into the overall streaming arena.
• Cars 3 Box Office — We talk about the somewhat perplexing box office numbers for the film — we look at our website statistics, Rotten Tomatoes ratings, comparisons to Cars and Cars 2, and an article from Variety which talks about the summer box office slump overall. 
• Cars 3 Blu-ray — We also discuss the home release for the film and look at what we believe may be the DVD & Blu-ray cover art as well as talk about the release date possibilities.
• Coco Press Teaser — Although Julie doesn't share any details, we discuss her time visiting Pixar for the recent press event to cover the film.
• Coco international trailer and TV Spot — We talk through the wonderful Spanish trailer for the film as well as the 30-second TV advertisement. Between the two, there are some great new moments of footage and we discuss them both.
• Coco release dates & books — We talk about why we love the fact that the film is being released in Mexico before the U.S., and which of the upcoming books (as highlighted in our post), we're excited for the most (hint, it's the "Art of" and "Family Tree" books).
• SIGGRAPH — we also note that a forum user who was at SIGGRAPH is really eager to chat about his excitement towards Smash and Grab (a film tied to Pixar's experimental short program). If you were there, let us know in the forum.

Pixar Post - T.J. & Julie