People I (Mostly) Admire

Pete Docter: “What If Monsters Really Do Exist?” (Update)

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Nov 16, 2024
Pete Docter, chief creative officer of Pixar and director of iconic films like 'Soul' and 'Monsters, Inc.', shares insights on Pixar's journey from humble beginnings to animation powerhouse. He discusses the significance of creativity, collaboration, and wrong turns in storytelling. The conversation delves into the emotional depth of animation, balancing artistry with profitability, and the joys and challenges of parenting. Docter reflects on how personal experiences shape narratives that resonate with audiences, making animated stories impactful across generations.
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ANECDOTE

Pixar's Early Days

  • Pete Docter joined Pixar at 21 when it was a small, struggling computer hardware company.
  • Two months later, Steve Jobs fired half the company.
ANECDOTE

Lunch with Steve Jobs

  • Pete Docter had lunch with Steve Jobs multiple times to discuss life, business, and film.
  • Jobs expressed jealousy towards Pixar directors for their storytelling abilities but largely left them alone creatively.
ANECDOTE

Jobs's Blunt Feedback

  • During a Hawaiian vacation, Steve Jobs gave Docter a harsh critique of his directing on Monsters, Inc., questioning his demeanor.
  • Jobs told Docter, "You just don't seem to have the right demeanor and enough testosterone."
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