Brad Bird

Brad Bird is a two-time Academy Award-winning animator, film director, screenwriter, producer, and voice actor. Bird developed an interest in animation at an early age and was mentored by Milt Kahl, one of Disney's Nine Old Men. He was part of one of the earliest graduating classes of the California Institute of the Arts, alongside John Lasseter and Tim Burton. Bird began his career as an animator for Disney, contributing to films such as "The Fox and the Hound" and "The Black Cauldron," and wrote the screenplay for "Batteries Not Included." He also served as a creative consultant on The Simpsons during its first eight seasons, helping to develop the show's animation style.

Bird directed his debut animated feature, "The Iron Giant." Although it was initially a box office disappointment, the film is now regarded as a modern animated classic. Bird joined Pixar, where he directed "The Incredibles" (and voiced the character of Edna "E" Mode) and "Ratatouille," both of which rank among Pixar's highest-grossing films and earned him two Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature, as well as nominations for Best Original Screenplay. Bird made his live-action directorial debut with "Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol," which achieved both critical and commercial success. His second live-action film, "Tomorrowland," starred George Clooney. Bird returned to animation with "Incredibles 2," which became Pixar's highest-grossing film and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.

Bird remains active in the animation industry, participating in public discussions about the future of animation and storytelling. He is recognized for his expertise in blending traditional animation techniques with contemporary storytelling, and he continues to speak at industry events and conferences, sharing insights on creativity, innovation, and overcoming challenges in filmmaking.