Persistence of Vision 2012
"The untold story of the greatest animated film never made."
Persistence of Vision (2012) peels back the curtain on an almost-forgotten cinematic tragedy—Richard Williams's three-decade obsession to craft the greatest animated film of all time.
Director: Kevin Schreck
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Persistence of Vision (2012) about?
Persistence of Vision (2012) uncovers the untold story of Richard Williams's decades-long quest to create an animated masterpiece based on Arabian Nights. The documentary explores the highs of innovation and the crushing lows of a project that, despite its brilliance, remained unfinished, leaving behind only fragments of what could have been.
Who directed Persistence of Vision?
Persistence of Vision was directed by Kevin Schreck, who masterfully pieces together the tragicomic saga of Williams's uncompleted animated epic.
Who stars in Persistence of Vision?
The documentary features key voices like Richard Williams, Omar Ali-Shah, Charles Fleischer, Robert Zemeckis, and the late Robin Williams, all integral to the story of the abandoned project.
Is Persistence of Vision (2012) worth watching?
Despite its unrated status, Persistence of Vision is a gripping watch for animation enthusiasts and film buffs alike. It's a poignant exploration of artistic ambition, offering a rare glimpse into a near-masterpiece that never saw the light of day. The documentary's blend of nostalgia, creativity, and melancholy makes it a compelling choice for those who appreciate behind-the-scenes cinematic storytelling.
How long is Persistence of Vision?
Persistence of Vision runs for 83 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Persistence of Vision (2012) — The Epic Animated Film That Never Was
Persistence of Vision (2012) peels back the curtain on an almost-forgotten cinematic tragedy—Richard Williams's three-decade obsession to craft the greatest animated film of all time.
This documentary follows Williams's relentless pursuit of perfection, as he poured profits, passion, and nearly 30 years into an epic inspired by Arabian Nights lore. With a team of visionary animators and Hollywood's finest technicians, he aimed to revolutionize animation itself. But the film's undoing came not from lack of talent, but from the crushing weight of unrealized ambition—a story of brilliance, struggle, and the fragility of creative dreams.
Kevin Schreck's film captures the bittersweet allure of what could have been, blending archival footage, intimate interviews, and a haunting sense of what might have changed animation forever.