Netflix is making moves in its feature animation division with the recent hiring of Hannah Minghella as Head of Feature Animation and Live-Action Family Film. Minghella, a veteran from Bad Robot, brings a wealth of experience from her time at J.J. Abrams-led company. She served as President of Motion Pictures, overseeing a variety of projects spanning live action, animation, and documentary features.
In addition to Minghella’s hiring, Netflix also welcomed back Sharon Taylor, formerly CEO of Animal Logic Studios, to head up production on feature animation. Taylor, who previously worked on building the streamer’s animated film division into a powerhouse in the industry, will be based out of Vancouver.
With the new changes in leadership, Karen Toliver and Traci Balthazor are exiting Netflix. The two played a significant role in launching hit films like Leo, Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio, The Sea Beast, and Nimona during their time at Netflix. Their departure marks a shift in the streaming giant’s animated film division.
Netflix’s Continued Commitment to Quality
Netflix’s Chairman of Film, Dan Lin expressed his excitement about the new additions to the feature animation team. Lin highlighted Hannah Minghella’s unique skill set and experience, along with her strong relationships with top filmmakers. He believes that Minghella’s expertise will bring variety and quality to Netflix’s animation and live action family film slate.
Continued Lin, “I’m also excited to welcome Sharon Taylor back to Netflix where she will lead production for our feature animation slate. Having previously worked together, I know firsthand that she brings a wealth of experience leading production with a world class team of animators and I look forward to her continuing to build on that success.”
Upon her hiring, Hannah Minghella expressed her enthusiasm about joining Netflix and the talented team working on feature animation and live-action family film. She praised the studio for distinguishing itself within the animation community as a home for bold and original voices. Minghella shared her appreciation for the artists, storytellers, filmmakers, and producers who dedicate themselves to the creative process.
Variety was the first to report on Minghella’s hiring by Netflix, signaling a new chapter for the streaming platform’s feature animation division.
Overall, Netflix’s recent hires and departures reflect the company’s commitment to quality and innovation in the realm of feature animation. With experienced leaders like Hannah Minghella and Sharon Taylor at the helm, the future looks bright for Netflix’s animated film division.
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