Ralph Bakshi

American animator and film director, known for pioneering adult-oriented animated features including Fritz the Cat (1972) and for using rotoscoping in his 1978 animated The Lord of the Rings.

Born October 29, 1938 in Haifa (then Mandatory Palestine). Emigrated to the United States and became a prominent animator and director noted for adult-themed and experimental animation, including Fritz the Cat (1972), Wizards (1977) and The Lord of the Rings (1978).

Reviews highlight Bakshi's historical importance as a pioneer of adult animation while critiquing artistic limits such as weak plotting. Fritz the Cat is noted for its cultural impact and controversy. Rotoscoping on The Lord of the Rings and experimental style are often discussed.

For:Fans of animation, film historians, readers interested in 1970s counterculture cinema