The Creative Behind the LEGO Movie Trilogy

The LEGO Movie series, known for its imaginative storytelling and groundbreaking animation, has thrilled audiences since its inception in 2014. However, one might wonder, who are the creative individuals responsible for these beloved films? This article delves into the studios, animators, and directors that brought the LEGO universe to life.

The Studio: Warner Animation Group

The LEGO Movie trilogy falls under the creative purview of Warner Animation Group (WAG). Established in 1980, WAG has a rich heritage within the animation industry, as it is a division of Warner Bros., a company whose origins trace back to 1923. WAG was instrumental in the creation and development of the LEGO Movie franchise, beginning with the 2014 release of the first film.

The Animation: Animal Logic

The unique animation style of the LEGO Movie trilogy is a remarkable blend of 3D computer-generated imagery (CGI) that pays homage to traditional stop-motion animation. This distinctive look is attributed to Animal Logic, an Australian company founded in 1994. Animal Logic is known for its innovation in visual effects (VFX) and animation, having contributed to films like Happy Feet (2006) and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’hoole (2010). Their work extends beyond film to include TV commercials and numerous other visual projects.

The Directors and Writers

The success of the LEGO Movie trilogy can be credited to its talented directors and writers. The first movie was a joint effort of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, both born in 1975. Phil and Chris are renowned for their creative partnerships, having previously worked together on projects such as Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009 and 2013) and 21 Jump Street (2012). Their writing and directing skills were essential in bringing the story of LEGO to life, culminating in a captivating end-credits sequence that was itself a stop-motion animation piece by the studio Alma Mater, based in Los Angeles. Music for the first film was composed by Mark Mothersbaugh.

The Second Entry: The LEGO Batman Movie

The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) marks the second entry in the trilogy. It was directed by Chris McKay, who has a unique background in stop-motion animation. Prior to leading The LEGO Batman Movie, Chris directed several episodes of the popular TV series Robot Chicken (2001), which also features stop-motion animation. The film also listed six credited writers, contributing to its diverse and well-rounded narrative. Comic themes and clever puns are evident, which are signature elements of the LEGO universe. The music for this film was composed by Lorne Balfe, adding a different layer of richness to the soundtrack.

The Third Movie: The LEGO Ninjago Movie

While the LEGO Movie sequel and The LEGO Batman Movie both carried on the traditions of the franchise, The LEGO Ninjago Movie (2017) takes a new direction. With 11 credited writers and a five-director crew, the film was notable for its extensive cast and intricate plot. Importantly, these directors did not overlap with those of either the first or second movies, nor with the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitsu TV show. Music for The LEGO Ninjago Movie was once again composed by Mark Mothersbaugh, maintaining the musical continuity from the first movie.

The LEGO Movie trilogy's success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of talented studios, animators, and directors. These creative forces have ensured that the LEGO universe remains a vibrant and exciting world for audiences of all ages.