Anthony Christov was Art Director for Oscar-winning cartoon movie “Finding Nemo”. Photo by Deborah Coleman
Anthony Christov is Art Director at Pixar, the world's top animation company, and has been in the business for more than 20 years. Anthony has worked on Oscar-winning "Finding Nemo" (Art Director), "The Incredibles" (Production Artist), and many more - among those the latest Pizar hit "Cars". He was set designer for the captivating cartoon movie.
Anthony Christov answered questions of Petya Bondokova.
Q: After the Oscar for "Finding Nemo," what are your expectations for "Cars"?
A: I certainly think that "Cars" deserves an Oscar, even though I've long since given up the prediction business.
"Cars" is different, very bold, taking chances with the subject matter and at the same time the characters are funny, complex and fresh - all Pixar trademarks.
I always marvel at the creative power here at Pixar. The variety of ideas is mind-blowing.
Q: Who would enjoy the movie more - children or their parents?
A: Everyone will enjoy "Cars".
Pixar films may range from talking fish to Superheroes all the way to talking cars, but one thing is always present - the fun, the warmth, the sheer visual beauty combined with a subtle humor layered in a way that guarantees to appeal to every age group.
Q: How much time did it take to make the movie?
"Cars" was probably one of the longest films in production at Pixar. When you see it, it becomes very clear why it took time to make it.
The film is a feast for the eye, with unprecedented attention to detail. Every store sign in the town, every sticker on a car, every stretch of the highway was carefully designed and deliberated on to the point where there was little to add and even less to omit.
Q: How many people worked on it?
A: Not quite sure how many people worked on it - let's just say in the hundreds.
Q: Did you help creating some of the characters?
A: I was not involved with any of the characters; my areas are the sets and the environments.
Q: What do you like most about the movie?
A: One of the things I like most about "Cars" is the freedom we had to reinterpret the unique beauty of the American Southwest.
Personally, I happen to be in love with that part of the world and, although in my opinion no human being will ever be able to do complete justice to Arizona's nature, I think we made a very valiant effort. We came closer than anything I've seen in film before.
Q: Do you plan anything special for the Bulgarian premiere?
A: I am in full steam production on our 2008 film and, as much as I might wish to, it's highly doubtful that I will make it to Bulgaria in time for the premiere.
Q: Tell us you recipe for an Oscar-winning animation.
A: If anyone tells you that they have the recipe for winning Oscars, you have to know that you shouldn't trust them with your money or the keys to your cars - no pun intended.
Q: What is your dream project now?
A: I am working on a project directed by Andrew Stanton and at this point I have to bite my tongue really hard not to say a word about it. We will have to leave it at that.
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