Pixar opens horizons for Pluto, Dumbo, et al.; it's computerized animation - backed by Steve Jobs, naturally

Article Abstract:

Pixar is a small privately-owned company that produces computer animation and graphics software. Principally known for creating animation for television commercials, the company has just signed a contract with Walt Disney Studios to produce a 75-minute movie. Pixar won an Academy Award in 1989 for its animated short The Tin Toy, directed by John Lasseter who will also write and direct the new film. The venture is considered risky. Industry analysts acknowledge that the estimated $10 million budget is half what would be expected for an action film but computer animation has not been used for a full-length features and no one knows how the audience will react. Computer animation adds the element of third-dimensionality to traditional animation but so far the technology does not allow characters to move as smoothly as those drawn by hand. Executives at Pixar believe that the story will carry the new film, even if the technology is not yet perfect.

Prepackaged software, Computer software industry, Software industry, Contracts, Employment, Movies, Pixar Animation Studios, Computer animation, Three dimensional graphics, Animation software, Walt Disney Co. Walt Disney Studios, Future Technologies, Three-Dimensional Graphics, Motion Pictures, Lasseter, John

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Britain offers encouraging experience

Article Abstract:

Great Britain does not impose restrictions on the intermingling of telephone and cable services and has thus created an important industry that combines both businesses. The merging of the two has resulted in high profits for Nynex, US West and Southwestern Bell, all US companies who are the biggest cable companies in Britain. By using fiber optics and by spreading the cost across the cable business and the telephone business, companies are able to offer telephone rates that are generally 15 percent lower than British Telecom, the market leader. The more important advantage of merging cable services with telephones is that consumers have greater access to information and entertainment. The US can benefit from Britain's successful experience in combining cable services and telephony.

Cable and other pay TV services, United Kingdom, Services, Internet services, Cable television, Management, Business planning, Cable Television/Data Services

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Telephone upheaval in Europe; freer market starts a competitive race

Article Abstract:

The European Community (EC) gradually opens its telecommunications market to greater competition, triggering an upheaval that is intended to bring down traditionally high telephone rates and improve services. Long-sheltered national telephone companies, such as those in France, Belgium, Germany and other countries, are now expected to compete head-on with telecommunications giants, such as British Telecommunications PLC and AT&T. The European telecom market is almost the same size as the US, with 1991 revenues of $137.5 billion. Analysts are predicting that it will be the fastest growing major industry of the decade, with total revenues expected to double to $312.5 billion in the year 2000.

Europe, Economic policy, European Union, Forecasting, Competition, Market Penetration, European Community

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