About Prep & Landing

Prep & Landing is an American computer-animated television special, based on an idea by Chris Williams at Walt Disney Animation Studios and developed by Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton into a half-hour Christmas special. It first aired on December 8, 2009.

The special revolves around an elite group of elves who prepare for Santa's arrival at homes. The story hinges on the elves Wayne and Lanny, who face an array of challenges in their attempt to make a successful landing for Santa, integrating exciting twists and giving a fresh and innovative take on the Santa Claus concept.

Making / Production

This animated holiday special was co-directed by Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton and produced by Dorothy McKim. The groundbreaking illustrations and animations were completed by the talented team at Walt Disney Animation Studios. Sean Lurie served as the tv special's executive producer.

Actors

• Dave Foley as Wayne - Foley perfectly captures Wayne's initially disgruntled but ultimately dedicated elf character.
• Derek Richardson as Lanny - Richardson brings enthusiasm and naivety to Lanny, making his character extremely endearing.
• Sarah Chalke as Magee - Chalke brings Magee, the north pole's Christmas Eve Command Center Coordinator, to life with her energetic performance.
• Morgan Lily as Grace Goodwin - Lily embodies the spirit of Christmas through her portrayal of the hopeful and joyful child character Grace.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The special represents the first television program produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.
• There is a part where Wayne appears to be stepping on the roof of the "Sleeping Beauty Castle" model from Disneyland.
• The name 'Magee' is derived from the term "MAGI", the purportedly wise men who visited Jesus after His birth.

Awards

Prep & Landing won an Annie Award for Best Animated Television Production and two Emmy Awards, for Outstanding Animated Program and Individual Achievement in Animation.

Quotes

• "Christmas is so sparkly. It just melts my heart." - Lanny
• "This Kringle is at go status." - Wayne
• "No one gets left behind on Christmas." - Magee

Music, Soundtrack

• The film features a marvelous score composed by Michael Giacchino.
• The official soundtrack features iconic holiday tunes, such as "Jingle Bells" and "Deck the Halls."
• The composition skillfully merges traditional Christmas music themes with original scores.