The film was a massive undertaking that nearly a decade to produce, costing an unprecedented $6 million at the time.

Released on January 29, 1959, is Walt Disney Productions' 16th animated feature . While initially a financial disappointment, it is now celebrated as one of the most artistically ambitious films of Disney’s "Golden Age". Summary of Key Facts

Heavily influenced by medieval tapestries and pre-Renaissance art, led by Eyvind Earle .

Adapted by George Bruns from Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s 1890 ballet.

Supervised by Clyde Geronimi and produced by Walt Disney.