There is so much research and exploration that goes on behind the scenes when producing an animated film. Since they aren’t dealing with “real” places, events, and people, an enormous amount of research is needed to make certain that the movie looks real and believable.
During my time in LA, I had the opportunity to sit down with Jeff Howard (Co-Writer) and Paul Gerard (Director of Creative Development) to learn more about the research behind Planes: Fire & Rescue. I walked away with so many tidbits of information that I thought were interesting so I wanted to share some of those with you.
10 Facts from the Research of Planes: Fire & Rescue
- CAL Fire was a big resource for the film makers. Considering they fight about 5,600 fires per year, I’d say they know a lot about fires.
- Real terminology and tactics were used in the movie based on information received from CAL Fire.
- Disney artist’s got a first hand look at a real forest fire during their research, which in turn helped them to make improvements to the film.
- While the film was in production, Disney received notes from Yellowstone National Park and Yosemite National Park to make the movie more natural and true-to-life.
- Grand Fusel Lodge was inspired by Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park. Disney personnel actually went to Old Faithful Inn and did on-site research. There are many similar characteristics in the film.
- The landscape in Planes: Fire & Rescue is based on real landscape from Auger Canyon.
- Just like CAL Fire, there is a dispatcher in Planes: Fire & Rescue. Their job is to see where lightning has struck and then send out a helicopter to check for fire ignition points.
- Scorchy was inspired by a real fire danger sign at Yellowstone National Park.
- Changes were made to the barracks in the film to make it look more like real working barracks.
- Aerial firefighting planes can hold up to 16,000 gallons of water and can fill up in 12 seconds by skimming lakes, reservoirs and large rivers.
Penelope Guzman says
I love when movies make the effort to improve the quality by researching what is real…that makes it so much better and enjoyable!
Dee @ Cocktails with Mom says
I thinks it’s very important to do research on animated movies. I love when they look so real and believable.
Crystal Green says
My kids are anxious to see this movie. I can’t wait to take them to see it.
Digna D. says
My son enjoyed the first one so I know we’ll be seeing this one too. Thank you!
Kathy says
My son is so excited for this movie. I plan on taking him opening day!
Kimberly Grabinski says
Wow, it’s neat to read some of the behind the scenes stuff. This looks like such a cute movie.
Anne - Mommy Has to Work says
Wow, getting a first hand look at forest fires sounds frightening!
Cynthia Wright says
Ever since the movie Ladder 49, I’ve had a strong soft spot in my heart for firefighters. This movie looks neat. I bet my daughter would love it.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
It’s always so neat to know how much research and legwork goes into an animated movie. It shows they want a great finished film.
Kelsey Apley says
Oh that is pretty cool they use real terminolgy for the movie, that is neat!!
Beth says
I love behind the scene facts. I loved when they put those up on TV during movies or shows!
Mellisa says
This was so much fun! YES!!! I plan on taking my kids to see this movie, they are going to love it.
Vanessa: thequeenofswag says
That’s all such cool facts about the film. Thanks for sharing!
melinda says
i understand it’s entertainment but I like when movies are a bit realistic with the facts
Robin Gagnon {Mom Foodie} says
I love the reality they have injected into this… kids can learn while being entertained.
Angela says
I am such a geek for this behind the scenes and making of stuff. I love hearing how much of the movie was inspired by real landscape.
Melissa says
SO interesting! I can’t wait for this to come out!
Kathleen says
These are fun facts! My youngest is so looking forward to seeing this movie!
Raijean says
Yes, I can’t wait to take the boychild! It’s going to be great.
Lisa @ Crazy Adventures in Parenting says
I knew there was research involved but HOLY WOW, I really love hearing all the detail, which makes me want to take the kids EVEN MORE now!
Tiff @ Babes and Kids says
It’s amazing how much goes into an animated film. Interesting that the scenery is based on a real canyon!
Valerie Remy-Milora says
Film making in all it’s forms is fascinating and so much more complex than meets the eyes! I have tremendous respect for fire fighters, especially aerial fighters! My parents live in a fire-prone area of the South of France and they are instrumental in keeping fires from being even more devastating than they already are. We see them scoop down in to the bay of St Tropez to fill their bellies and fly off the where they are needed. It’s quite impressive!
Colleen says
Wow they witness a fire, amazing what goes into the creation.
Marcie W. says
I will definitely have to share these facts with my husband and son before they go on a guys night to see this film. They saw the first Planes movie together, so you can imagine how excited they are to see the sequel!
Theresa @ Faith and Family Reviews says
I want to take them but we may have to wait until it’s on DVD.
Liz Mays says
I want to compare some of the inspirational real places with the movie now!