In 1986, Apple Computer founder Steve Jobs purchased the computer graphics division of Lucasfilms for $10 million. The new company, called Pixar, has gone on to become one of the greatest success stories in the animation business. Red Herring reports that George Lucas’ company is preparing to strike back. “Earlier this year, San Rafael, California-based Lucasfilm quietly formed Lucasfilm Animation, which has been gearing up to produce computer-animated features. Still officially under wraps, the startup will not disclose whether it has any films in development. The company has, however, published an open call for at least 75 positions ranging from computer animators to motion-capture technicians, indicating that it is building a studio that could rival Pixar in scale.” While Lucasfilm Animation may have the financial backing and will to succeed, they might have trouble finding the most important asset: talent. “The traditional approach to animation – pioneered by Disney and still practiced by Pixar – is highly collaborative and democratic, encompassing dozens of artists’ work. Known for his fierce independence, Mr. Lucas may have to make way for some other mogul-sized egos”.