Dreamy handmade effects bring classic Disney magic to its new short film

Disney's latest short film, "Once a Princess, Always a Princess," pays homage to practical magic in storytelling. The four-minute animated tale, released on August 17 for World Princess Week, tells the story of friendship and childhood imagination, set both in modern-day cityscapes and the fantastical realms of its two protagonists.

What sets the film apart is the use of almost entirely practical effects, with no CGI in sight. The sets, including towering "bigature" castles, underwater scenes, and hand-painted backgrounds, were all brought to life through manual techniques. Director Alex Prager, inspired by Disney's storied history, aimed to bring back the charm of old-school filmmaking techniques.

This trend of favoring practical effects can be seen across advertising and Hollywood as audiences yearn for the unique touch of handmade effects. Disney and advertising agency Fallon went all out to create a practical wonderland, with real "bigature" models built to stand as tall as adults and elaborate sets that mimic iconic Disney elements.

The underwater sequences were achieved using "dry-for-wet" stagecraft, while puppeteers brought beloved characters to life in a ballroom scene. The film also features a 56-piece live orchestra, hand-painted storybook-quality backgrounds, and costumes crafted from scratch. Director Alex Prager emphasizes that the use of practical effects brings authenticity to the performances, enhancing the viewer's connection with the story.

The film's success underscores a broader trend: despite the rise of AI-generated content, a renewed appreciation for human craftsmanship in filmmaking is emerging. This shift is evident in various projects, including James Gunn's Superman film, 2024's The Substance, and Apple's AI-influenced holiday ad. Disney's investment in AI and practical effects demonstrates a delicate balance between harnessing technological advancements and preserving the warmth of human-made effects.