Mark Gustafson, co-director of Oscar-winning animation Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, died on Thursday aged 64. The news was reported in the Oregonian, and Del Toro posted a tribute on social media, saying Gustafson was “a pillar of stop-motion animation [and a] compassionate, sensitive and mordantly witty man”.
After working in stop-motion for many years and animating The California Raisins in the 1980s, Gustafson joined Del Toro on the film Pinocchio. He then went on to become the animation director for Fantastic Mr. Fox, a Wes Anderson adaptation of a Roald Dahl story, in 2009. Additionally, he served as the head of animation for A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas in 2011.
Originally, Gustafson and illustrator Gris Grimly were planned to co-direct Pinocchio while Del Toro would produce. However, Del Toro eventually chose to become more involved and take on the role of director. The final film was a success, with Gustafson’s expertise balancing out Del Toro’s imaginative ideas. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Film in 2023, along with several other prestigious accolades.
In his tribute Del Toro wrote: “I admired Mark Gustafson, even before I met him. A pillar of stop-motion animation – a true artist. A compassionate, sensitive and mordantly witty man. A Legend – and a friend that inspired and gave hope to all around him. He passed away yesterday. Today we honour and miss him.”
Mark leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the world of animation, dating back to the earliest days of Claymation. His impact on the careers of countless animators cannot be overstated. He also leaves behind close friends, colleagues, and an impressive body of work. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jennifer. Some say to never meet your idols, but I disagree. Meeting Mark as a human rather than just an artist was a true honor. I had always admired him, and having the opportunity to spend time with him during both good and bad times was a cherished experience. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
Jennifer is the surviving spouse of Gustafson.
Source: theguardian.com
