The Polar Express was created as a children’s picture book by writer and illustrator Chris Van Allsburg, and later adapted into a 2004 animated film directed and co-written by Robert Zemeckis.

Who “made” The Polar Express?

  • The original book “The Polar Express” was written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg, published in 1985.
  • The popular movie “The Polar Express” (2004) was directed by Robert Zemeckis, who also co-wrote the screenplay with William Broyles Jr.
  • The film is based very closely on Van Allsburg’s book and expands its short story into a full Christmas adventure.

Key people behind the film

  • Director: Robert Zemeckis (also known for “Back to the Future” and “Forrest Gump”).
  • Screenplay: Robert Zemeckis and William Broyles Jr.
  • Original author: Chris Van Allsburg, whose book inspired the entire film universe.

Fun production notes

  • The movie uses motion-capture animation, which was cutting-edge when it released in 2004.
  • Tom Hanks plays multiple roles in the film, including the Conductor and the Boy, adding to its distinctive style.

TL;DR:

  • Book creator: Chris Van Allsburg.
  • Movie creator (director/co-writer): Robert Zemeckis, with William Broyles Jr. on the script and based on Van Allsburg’s book.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.