Cars

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Theatrical Release Date: June 9, 2006
Estimated Budget: $120 Million
U.S. Box Office Gross: $244 Million
Worldwide Box Office: $461 Million

Cast
Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt, Larry the Cable Guy, Cheech Marin, Tony Shaloub, Michael Keaton, George Carlin & John Ratzenberger

Credits
Music by: Randy Newman
Produced By: Darla K. Anderson
Story by: John Lasseter, Jorgen Klubien & Joe Ranft
Screenplay by: John Lasseter, Jorgen Klubien, Joe Ranft, Dan Fogelman, Kiel Murray & Phil Lorin
Directed by: John Lasseter

Tidbits

  • The idea for Cars had been bouncing around Pixar since 1999 based on John Lasseter’s love of all things cars.

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  • Joe Ranft (above) found “Mater” in a vacant lot in Galena, Texas.
  • The decision to place the eyes of the cars in the windshield was partially inspired by the 1952 Disney short, Susie the Little Blue Coupe.
  • This was the last feature film for Paul Newman. He died September 26, 2008.
  • Pixarian voices include Joe Ranft (Red), Andrew Stanton (Fred), Jonas Rivera (Boost) & Lou Romano (Snotrod).
  • The film was nominated for Academy Awards in the Best Animated Film and Best Original Song “Our Town”) categories.
  • Cars has inspired two attractions at Disney theme parks.
    • Cars: Race Rally at Disneyland Paris opened in 2006.
    • Cars Land will be a whole new area at Disney’s California Adventure. Attractions scheduled to be part of the land include “E” Ticket Radiator Springs Racers, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi’s Roamin ‘ Tires. Cars Land is scheduled to open in 2012.