Animatus and the Animation Workshop were singled out by City Newspaper’s Adam Lubitow as the best local resource for Rochesterians looking to further their filmmaking knowledge.

Thanks, Adam! It’s quite an honor!

Critic’s Pick: Best Resource for Aspiring Filmmakers, Animatus Studio

In a building tucked back slightly from the road at 34 Winthrop Street in downtown Rochester, Animatus Studio has an unassuming appearance, in keeping with its status as one of the more unsung institutions of the city’s film culture. And inside, Animatus is a veritable hive of creativity.

Founded by filmmaker Fred Armstrong, the studio is brimming with ephemera from animation history, including an entire room devoted to The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine,” the film that first opened Armstrong’s eyes to the more unconventional possibilities of the medium. In addition to being a full-service animation studio, Animatus offers workshops for aspiring movie makers throughout the year, providing training in traditional, paper cut-out, and clay animation techniques.

Over the years, the studio has produced some impressive alumni, Oscar-winning Disney animator Brian Menz (“Frozen,” “Big Hero 6”) being just one example. Animation is Armstrong’s calling, and through Animatus — celebrating its 30th anniversary this coming year — he continues to spread that passion by inspiring a new generation of young filmmakers.