John Canemaker, Oscar Winner

JF: It's a very personal piece. What did you set out to do when you started the film? Did you make it with an audience in mind?

JC:I made it with me in mind. It is a personal exploration that I made to settle things in my own mind and life. Animation can do that. And I wanted to explore my very personal ideas and concerns in a way that is far removed from live-action realism. I had no big plans for the film. I just made it because I had to.

JF: Your film is very unique in its emotional and autobiographical nature. What did you look towards for inspiration?

JC: I have always been inspired by the artistry and honesty found in the films by Faith and John Hubley. They pointed the way in terms of self-expression, use of autobiographical elements, and a painterly, expressionistic free-form way of presenting memory, inner thoughts, and emotions. Faith was also a close personal friend who constantly encouraged me to make this film, to tell my own story my way. I miss her greatly. In terms of magical realism in films, I love Fellini and Michael Powell.

JF: In your Oscar speech, you noted the importance of 2D animation. In what ways is it important?

JC: Hand-drawn animation is a great art form that is as viable and valid a means of expression as CGI. It should continue to be explored and utilized by moving image artists alone or in tandem with CGI for its immediacy, warmth and unique expressive power.

JF: How do I make an Oscar-winning film?

JC: Make a film. Kiss a rabbit's foot.