Disney to Withdraw from International Animated Film Society

Walt Disney Studios announced on August 24 that it would withdraw from the International Animated Film Society, the New York Times reports.  Disney's withdrawal is due to discontent with the society's Annie Awards, given for achievement in animation.

According to the Times, Disney has complained "that the guild allows anyone to buy a membership (in contrast to most awards-bestowing organizations) and that rival Dreamworks Animation has too much power because it gives all of its employees complimentary membership to the guild."  Disney was especially incensed when DreamWorks's 'Kung Fu Panda' received many awards in 2009, while Disney subsidiary Pixar's 'Wall-E' won none.

Ed Catmull, president of Disney Animation and Pixar Animation, said, "We believe there is an issue with the way the Annies are judged, and have been seeking a mutually agreeable solution with the board...Although some initial steps have been taken, the board informed us that no further changes would be made to address our concerns."

Antran Manoogian, president of the Society, responded by saying, "The Annies are about honoring the best in animation, and we will continue to do so."

For more information about the International Animated Film Society, visit www.asifa-hollywood.org.