The Secret Code Uniting the Disney and Pixar Universe
Have you ever wondered why a specific code, A113, appears in almost all of your favorite animated movies? It’s not a coincidence or a bizarre subliminal message, but a tribute filled with history.
What does A113 actually mean?
This is the classroom number at the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). In this room, first-year graphic animation and character design students (including big names like John Lasseter, Brad Bird, and Tim Burton) learned the basics of their craft. To honor their beginnings, these animators tuck the code into almost every project they work on.
Where can we find it in our favorite cartoons?
Here are some iconic moments where this "easter egg" makes an appearance:
- Finding Nemo: Perhaps one of the clearest moments is when the scuba diver takes a photo of Nemo right before he is taken from the ocean. If you look closely at the professional camera body, you will see the code A-113 printed on it.
- The Good Dinosaur: In this movie, the code is cleverly formed by the branches of a fence that the little dinosaur, Arlo, passes through.
- WALL-E: Here, A113 plays a crucial role in the story. It is the emergency protocol activated by the Axiom’s autopilot, which forbids humans from ever returning to Earth.
- Coco: The mysterious number appears on the office door where family bureaucratic issues are handled in the Land of the Dead ("Boro for Familienfragen").
- Incredibles 2: It can be spotted on the side of the high-speed train (MGLV-A113) and also on Mr. Incredible's license plate.
- Up: When Mr. Fredricksen goes to court, the number on the plaque next to the courtroom door is, of course, A113.
- Inside Out: The code appears as graffiti on a background wall while Riley is walking down the street.
Why does it appear in so many movies?
The reason is sentimental. It’s a subtle way for animators to "wave" at each other and remember where it all started. Even if the movie takes place in space, underwater, or in a city full of emotions, A113 is the element that ties them all together in one creative universe.
Next time you watch a new Disney or Pixar movie, keep your eyes peeled! You might just discover this hidden code right in front of you.
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