Brad Bird

This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on November 9, 2004). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.

With the success of The Incredibles, more people are finally starting to take notice of director Brad Bird‘s first feature effort, the excellent Iron Giant. In a (very deservedly) gushing look at Iron Giant, MTV’s Karl Heitmueller wraps up with this statement:

Like the Brothers Grimm, Dr. Seuss and Maurice Sendak, Brad Bird knows that kids can handle some tough concepts, and he never insults the intelligence of his audience. The greatest children’s entertainment has always been challenging and sometimes difficult. But those are the books, films and shows that transcend pop culture to become timeless classics. Like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Iron Giant” is one of those films that was a failure initially but whose stature continues to grow over time.

Very true, and I wish more people would learn how to approach children like that.

(via Luxo)