Ub Iwerks: The Unsung Hero Behind Walt Disney’s Success

When we think of Walt Disney, the iconic creator of Mickey Mouse and the founder of the Disney empire, we often overlook the contributions of one of his closest collaborators, Ub Iwerks.

Ub Iwerks was not just an animator; he was a visionary whose technical prowess and creative genius were instrumental in shaping the early successes of Walt Disney Studios.

The Early Days: A Partnership is Born

Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney first crossed paths in 1919 at the Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio in Kansas City. Their complementary skills quickly forged a strong partnership. While Walt was the dreamer and showman, Ub was the meticulous artist and problem-solver.

Together, they ventured into the world of animation, founding the short-lived Iwerks-Disney Commercial Artists before moving on to the Kansas City Film Ad Company.

Creating Mickey Mouse

One of Iwerks’ most significant contributions was the creation of Mickey Mouse. After losing the rights to Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Walt needed a new character to save his fledgling studio.

Ub, with his exceptional drawing skills, designed Mickey Mouse, bringing to life the character that would become the symbol of the Disney brand. Ub’s animation work on the early Mickey Mouse cartoons, including the groundbreaking “Steamboat Willie,” showcased his ability to blend creativity with technical innovation.

Technical Innovations

Beyond character design, Iwerks was a pioneer in animation technology. He developed the multiplane camera, which added depth and realism to animated films.

This invention was crucial in creating the rich, immersive worlds that Disney films became known for. Ub’s technical expertise extended to special effects, where he worked on projects like “Song of the South” and “Mary Poppins,” pushing the boundaries of what was possible in film.

A Brief Separation and Triumphant Return

In 1930, Iwerks left Disney to start his own studio. Although his independent ventures, including the creation of characters like Flip the Frog, did not achieve the same level of success, they demonstrated his relentless drive and creativity. In 1940, Ub returned to Disney, where he continued to innovate and contribute to the studio’s success until his retirement.

Legacy and Impact

Ub Iwerks’ legacy is often overshadowed by Walt Disney’s larger-than-life persona, but his contributions were foundational to the success of Disney Studios. His technical innovations and artistic talents helped establish the Disney brand as a leader in animation and entertainment. Ub Iwerks was more than just an animator; he was a visionary whose work continues to influence the world of animation today.

In celebrating Walt Disney, we must also remember and honor Ub Iwerks, the unsung hero whose creativity and ingenuity were vital to the magic of Disney.