Howard (film)

Howard is a 2018 American documentary film directed by Don Hahn, chronicling the life and career of songwriter Howard Ashman. Ashman is best known for his collaborations with Alan Menken on the scores for Disney animated musicals such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin, as well as the stage musical Little Shop of Horrors.

The film features archival footage, photographs, and interviews with Ashman's friends, family, and colleagues, including Menken, Jodi Benson, Paige O'Hara, and Bill Lauch. It explores Ashman's creative process, his struggles with AIDS, and his lasting impact on musical theatre and animation.

Howard premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in April 2018 and was released on Disney+ in August 2020. It received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of Ashman's life and work, and for its celebration of his artistic legacy. The film highlights the importance of Ashman's contributions to the Disney Renaissance and his influence on a generation of artists. It also sheds light on the personal struggles he faced while battling AIDS, and the profound impact his loss had on the entertainment industry. The film is noted for its intimate and emotional approach to telling Ashman's story.