This man inspired Basil, the private detective!

Tom Cruise for Aladdin, Jennifer Connelly for Jasmine, Jean-Paul Belmondo for Carp or even Charlie Chaplin for WALL-E… There are many animated characters (whether they come from Disney studios or not) whose physical appearance, walk or walk. Inspired by real people.

Inspired by their own directors

In the late 80s, this was also the case for Basil, a private detective, with the two protagonists of The Mousetrap: Basil of Baker Street and his adventure companion Dr. Dawson.

Clearly inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous character from the Disney studio artists, Sherlock HolmesAnd by his faithful partner Watson (who actually lives above their heads), the two Disney rodents also have traits inherited from their creators.

Indeed, legendary film directors John Musker and Ron Clements (who went on to helm The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Hercules, Treasure Planet, The Princess and the Frog, and Moana) share a bit about their personalities, but also their physical appearance. The two protagonists of their first full-length film, which they themselves confirmed to us in 2016.

“I’m a little more Basil and he’s a little more Dawson.”

When we asked them if they drew inspiration from their own friendship to build Basil and Dawson’s friendship, the two directors didn’t prove us wrong, and even smiled softly:

“A little, yes! I’m a little more Basil, and he’s a little more Dawson.”John Musker exclaimed.

“Not just physically, of course. John is tall and thin, I’m shorter and rounder. But I think there’s something about the personalities too.”Ron Clements then added, confirmed by his co-worker:

“I’m a bit more caustic and cerebral. He’s more emotional and warm, and I’m a bit sharper and cutting, in a way. So we’re a little Basil and Dawson.”

What do you think of this surprising connection between the two characters of Basil and their directors?

(re)discover the trailer for the film…