A closer look at the Route 66 research that went into the “Cars” film

If you have about a half-hour to spare, I urge you to watch this entertaining featurette about Pixar's research of Route 66 before the animation studio released the "Cars" movie in 2006. "Cars" director John Lasseter explains what happened during that road trip, and "Route 66: The Mother Road" author Michael Wallis -- later to … Continue reading A closer look at the Route 66 research that went into the “Cars” film

“Cars” director John Lasseter hired by Skydance Animation

Former Pixar Animation chief John Lasseter, director of the Route 66-inspired "Cars" film in 2006, recently was hired as chief of Skydance Animation. Lasseter -- along with the film's vision of the fictional Route 66 town of Radiator Springs -- is the figure most responsible for the Mother Road’s continued renaissance except perhaps Michael Wallis … Continue reading “Cars” director John Lasseter hired by Skydance Animation

Disney may remove “Cars” director John Lasseter

Although Walt Disney Co. officials so far remain silent about the issue, reports have emerged that John Lasseter, chief executive of Disney-Pixar's animation divisions, may not return to either company amid allegations of sexual harassment and bullying. The news will dishearten many fans of Route 66. Lasseter, who directed Disney-Pixar's 2006 hit film "Cars" that … Continue reading Disney may remove “Cars” director John Lasseter

Pixar short film uses Route 66 motel as its setting

An upcoming short film by Pixar Animation Studios, "Sanjay's Super Team," uses a Route 66 motel as its setting. That's because the short's director, Sanjay Patel, saw his parents buy and operate Route 66's Lido Motel in San Bernardino, California, according to the Los Angeles Times. His family still owns the motel. The short film will be … Continue reading Pixar short film uses Route 66 motel as its setting

John Lasseter’s introduction at the Route 66 roundtable

The folks at the World Monuments Fund a few hours ago posted this video that played at the beginning of the "Route 66: The Road Ahead" roundtable a few weeks ago near Cars Land at Disney California Adventure. If you're a newcomer to Route 66, John Lasseter directed the Route 66-inspired 2006 Disney-Pixar film "Cars" … Continue reading John Lasseter’s introduction at the Route 66 roundtable