On CLIPS In November, 2009
WALT & EL GRUPO

A diplomatic trip to Latin American countries in the early 1940s by Walt Disney and a select group is documented in this film.

TRIVIA: Which two animated feature films resulted from this trip?

Fearing the spread of Nazi influence in Latin America during the early 1940s, the U.S. Government asked Walt Disney for help. Facing a strike at the studio, Walt took a select group on a goodwill tour of Latin American countries. “Walt & El Grupo” is an absolutely fascinating documentary about this tour. It is a must-see for every adult Disney fan. Director Theodore Thomas has lovingly fashioned a fitting tribute to the group that included his father, legendary animator Frank Thomas. Recollections of the trip, including personal letters, by descendants and residents who encountered the group are weaved through seldom-seen archival footage, some dazzling artwork and newly-shot cinematography by Shana Hagan of the visited countries. The documented footage from the tour itself is amazing. Some of the scenes of Walt Disney at work and play were surprisingly new to me. There is also an original musical score with a Latin beat by James Stemple that has a distinct Disney sound. Songs like “Brazil”, from the animated features that were made as a result of the goodwill trip, are included along with scenes from those movies. The entire documentary is presented at a leisurely pace, slowly revealing its wealth of information. I will certainly watch those two Latin American-themed animated classics in a whole new light. A near masterpiece, “Walt & El Grupo” is a work of art.