Pete Docter has overseen some of Pixar’s best films, but the famous animator is taking a step back from the director’s chair these days. After John Lasseter left Pixar, Docter was chosen to take on the CCO mantle and usher in a new era for the company. Now, in a new interview, Docter talked about the big change and why he refuses to direct another film in the near future.
The truth was revealed during a recent article written by the Hollywood Reporter. It was there that Docter led readers through his Pixar career, and the new CCO feels that his executive title has pushed him out of the director’s chair.
“The CCO’s job is not to make films,” said Docter of his new position. “It’s mentoring other people. At first, I was concerned that it would be like a tax, moving away from what I really loved. But it’s been surprisingly rewarding.”
After more than 30 years of animating on the floor, Docter is in a unique position where he can offer guidance to emerging artists. The executive says that this role of ment has been satisfactory, despite his apprehension, but he is not sure how long the role will keep him away from his first crush.
“I can see their eyes shine and they recognize the truth of what I’m saying, and it helps them get somewhere, and it’s been surprisingly rewarding for me,” said Docter of guiding Pixar’s current talent list.
“Whether it’s going to be enough in the long run, or if I’m going to be looking forward to driving again, I don’t know. We’ll have to see.”
Given Pixar’s success Soul, you can understand why Docter is not committing to leave the animation behind. The artist is a diehard fan of animation altogether. In Monsters Inc. forInside out, Docter brought some challenging stories to life under Pixar. For the time being, the executive is well nurturing other artists as a mentor, just as Lasseter did with him. But as to whether that feeling persists, well – Docter isn’t sure about that.
Would you like to see Docter return to the director’s seat in the future? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below or contact me on Twitter @MeganPetersCB.