thechanelmuse's review against another edition

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5.0

“Our actions change our reality. Our intentions matter. Most people believe that their actions have consequences but don’t think through the implications of that belief.”

This is an insightful, intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Pixar’s work culture and the philosophy they live by to facilitate as a thriving company that doesn’t hinder the efforts, suggestions, potential, mood and creativity (of course) of their employees. Ed and others leads with trust and encouragement to use small and big failures as lessons that should be acted on swiftly rather than playing the blame game if something goes wrong or falls apart because after all it’s teamwork within individual tasks that leads to tighter bonds and wiser decision-making for the future. In short, “focus on the problem not the person.” This methods in this book are very very usual for other creative companies to thrive rather than burdening the abilities and confidence of their team.

clindberg157's review against another edition

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informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

Absolutely inspiring.

ohnoitskylie's review against another edition

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informative slow-paced

2.5

elisehernke's review against another edition

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4.0

Really fantastic insights about running creative corporations and how to nurture the processes that allow for interesting stories to flourish, while still making money and being profitable, etc.
Notably, this book was rereleased in 2019 after John Lassiter stepped down from Disney & started his own company (after some unfavorable allegations) and Ed Catmull retired. Would be interested to grab his thoughts on what’s happened to the company in the past decade.

inkandinsights's review against another edition

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5.0

This is a non-fiction nook but written like a beautiful story.

Pixar is perhaps the most beautiful storyteller we know.

But, Pixar is not a single person. it is a collective of creative professionals, computer engineers, animators, producers, directors, and a diverse set of people from diverse backgrounds.

Bringing together the creative force of such a big collective is not an easy task. It is unimaginable for someone like me who still hasn't wrapped his head around the beauty and stunning craftsmanship of Pixar movies.

Ed Catmull breaks down in a beautiful narrative manner how Pixar became Pixar as we know it.

It is amazing to know how a company that was once in dire traits and was desperately looking for a buyer has now become the pioneer of animated movie-making.

The book has textbook lessons on leadership, creative thinking, managing emotions at work, giving and getting feedback, and ultimately, becoming a better version of oneself.

Needless to say, I was actively taking notes that I hope will serve by better future.

What really surprised me about this book is the 'Afterword'. The section where Ed revisits his career alongside Steve Jobs.

Is there anything in this world that has not been influenced by Steve Jobs? I doubt it.

nadialeeowens's review

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inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.0

missyjohnson's review against another edition

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3.0

More a history of Pixar than any type of business or management book. I did enjoy Catmulls information about what Steve Jobs was like as a boss and colleague. The twenty plus years of working with him and for him gave a better insight as to the growth of the man than the snippets of negative press that are so predominate in this day and age

winterdream1999's review against another edition

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challenging funny informative inspiring reflective slow-paced

5.0

tashaseegmiller's review against another edition

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5.0

I was not prepared for the comprehensive awesomeness that is in this book. While I have admired the storytelling techniques of Pixar for a long time, the things I learned about leadership, the creative process, working with people, advice for life, etc. made me read slowly, think often and highlight incredible points I'll come back to time and again.

Friends in leadership or creative pursuits - prepare for me to recommend this book to you. It is a great, great read.

ohcorrica's review against another edition

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4.0

A great expansion of a classic book. If you are a creative, work with creatives, or want more creativity in your life then this is a must-read. It is inspiring and enjoyable to imagine Pixar at various times and hear all of the great stories.