Nine colorful animator’s models from the development of the 1940 animated feature Pinocchio—left to right: Jiminy Cricket (posed pointing to the right), Pinocchio (posed pointing up), the cat Figaro, Geppetto (in a pensive pose), the fox J. Worthington Foulfellow, sidekick cat Gideon, Stromboli (pointing down with his right hand), the Coachman, and Lampwick—are displayed against a gray backdrop.

The Gift of New Life: Recreating a Historical Photo from Pinocchio

By Taylor Larsen, Walt Disney Archives “Hi diddle dee dee!” As we reach the milestone 85th anniversary of Walt Disney’s Pinocchio, the Walt Disney Archives looks back at some “real-life” animator’s models that honor the story of the “real boy.” Join us for a historical journey as the Archives staff recreates an iconic photo taken long …

Disney100: The Exhibition Opens in Paris April 10

Disney100: The Exhibition—the largest exhibition the Walt Disney Archives has ever created—is making its way to Paris, France.

A production still depicts the filming of the incredible battle between Captain Nemo and the giant squid. Captain Nemo (played by James Mason) is standing to the left on external shell of Nautilus with cover from the highest point of the ship. He holds a spear, ready to launch it at the beast. The squid’s tentacles reach from the farthest most point of the Nautilus to Captain Nemo, eager to grab him. Its head and mouth are underwater. In the foreground of the scene is the camera, covered by a tarp, and the heads of production crew members. The entire photo has a heavy blue tint.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea: 70 Years of the Mightiest Motion Picture of Them All!

Dive into the legacy of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, celebrating 70 years of cinematic innovation and timeless adventure.

Walt Disney Archives’ Heroes & Villains Costume Exhibition Heads to South Carolina

The magic continues in May 2025 when the South Carolina State Museum will be the next host of Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume!

A detail from the inside image of the 1949 Disney holiday card features a portion of a painting by Mary Blair depicting Cinderella in her coach being magically whisked away toward the castle.

Holiday Magic in the Making: The Artistic Evolution of a Disney Studio Christmas Card

Explore how Disney Legends Mary Blair and John Hench brought holiday cheer to life in the 1949 Disney studio Christmas card.

Ariel and Flounder underwater admiring a dancing couple wind-up toy.

Diving Off the Screen: Masterful ‘Little Mermaid’ Product Art

Celebrate 35 years of The Little Mermaid with a look at rarely-seen illustrations from Disney books, VHS covers, and collectible artwork.

Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, wearing a patterned shawl and white gloves, poses confidently while holding the “Excalibur,” a decorative prop sword from the 2004 film King Arthur, with shelves filled with books in the background.

The Walt Disney Archives Staff Reveals Favorite Treasures from the Collection

Discover the Walt Disney Archives’ favorite treasures, from iconic props to rare artwork, curated by the passionate team preserving Disney’s legacy.

Disney Legend James Earl Jones's head shot

Remembering Disney Legend James Earl Jones

Remembering Disney Legend James Earl Jones, the voice behind the iconic characters Darth Vader and Mufasa.

A collection of Mary Poppins paraphernalia arranged around Mary’s carpet bag, at the center, includes Poppins dolls and pins, a ticket from the premiere, a hat and two pairs of shoes worn by star Julie Andrews, and more.

Inside the Carpet Bag: 60 Years of Mary Poppins

Dive into 60 years of Mary Poppins nostalgia as Walt Disney Archives reveals the iconic carpet bag and other cherished treasures.

Angela Bassett

It takes a strong woman to portray a strong female character, and Angela Bassett always fits the bill. From her breakout role as single mother Reva Styles in John Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood (1991), to her portrayal of fierce Queen Ramonda in Marvel’s Black Panther films, Angela’s unmistakable voice, signature delivery, and grand presence …