Colin Low (filmmaker)

Colin Low (July 24, 1926 – February 24, 2016) was a Canadian animator, filmmaker, producer, and educator, best known for his innovative work at the National Film Board of Canada (NFB). Born in Cardston, Alberta, Low joined the NFB in 1945 and remained a significant figure there for over five decades.

Low was a pioneer in animation techniques, particularly in the realm of experimental and abstract animation. He is recognized for his contributions to developing animation methods involving direct film manipulation and the use of computers in filmmaking.

His notable works include Romance of Transportation in Canada (1952), a satirical animated short; Neighbours (1952), a live-action/animation hybrid directed by Norman McLaren on which Low served as animator, which won an Academy Award; and Universe (1960), a groundbreaking animated documentary about astronomy. Universe was nominated for an Academy Award and is said to have inspired Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Low was a strong advocate for technological advancements in film. Later in his career, he explored IMAX technology and virtual reality, demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of cinematic expression. He contributed to the development of IMAX films such as North of Superior (1971) and Ocean (1977).

Throughout his career, Colin Low received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Canadian cinema and animation. He is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of the NFB and a significant innovator in the art of filmmaking. He continued to work and experiment with new media until his death in 2016.