AKA: W N McLaren
Nationality: Scottish
Birthdate: 04/11/1914
Birthplace: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
Death Date: 01/27/1987
Celebrated pioneer of animation techniques including stop motion and drawing directly onto celluloid. McLaren was put on the staff of the British GPO Film Unit by John Grierson in 1937 and followed Grierson to Canada in 1941. Working under the auspices of the National Film Board, he produced several outstanding works which pushed Len Lye's approach of drawing directly onto celluloid into new and breathtaking dimensions. McLaren was noted for his inventive and eclectic use of music, disdain for the boundaries of the film frame, and meticulous working methods.
1936
Worked as a cameraman in Spain during the Civil War
1939
Moved to USA and settled in NYC
1941
Immigrated to Canada and joined the National Film Board
1941
First film produced under the auspices of the National Film Board, "V for Victory"
