101 Dalmatians (1961)
Much to the dismay of many hardcore Disney fans, and the studio itself, Sleeping Beauty turned out to be a commercial flop, which left the studio in debt, and contemplating closing it's animation department for good, and focus more on their numerous live action films and tv series, along with developing Disneyland further. So, on a wing and a prayer, they began production on 101 Dalmatians, based off the book of the same name. And, also began a new age for the studio which ushered in a new iconic art style heavily associated with the Disney name. An age, many fans refer to as the Xerox Age.
To save money on production, especially on the labor intensive task of painting millions of spots on animation cells of dogs, the studio invested in the new form of xeroxing multiples of the same image, to save time and money, along with the sanity of the animators. Leaving the look of the film with a rough, sketchy final product that would last until newer revolutions in animation came along for 1977's The Rescuers. And for the record, Disney himself despised the look!
Despite the cheapened look of the film, it went on to be a success, turning out to be one of the top grossing films of 1961. And heightened the popularity of Dalmatians themselves, as demand rose for the difficult to train dog breed.
Now, many fans count this as their favorite, and I must admit, it ranks pretty high for me. But I must say one thing, that is a bit of a confession in itself......... I am not a dog person, at all. However, Disney accomplished the task of making a movie almost entirely about canines that can charm the pants off of any movie goer. A feat in itself...
For those of you, living under a rock with no idea what this movie is about, it begins by telling the story of two dalmatians (Pongo and Perdie) who fall in love, as do their 'pet humans' (Roger and Anita), and go on to breed 15 dalmatian puppies. For whatever reason, Anita has managed to hold a friendship from childhood with a wretched individual with a penchant for fur coats named Cruella Deville, who comes up with the insane idea to steal the puppies so she can make herself a fur coat out of their skins......
Now a plot like that is enough to send any animal lover, let alone PETA themselves, off the deep end. Surely if this movie were to be released by today's politically correct ideals, their would be riots in the streets. Yet again, proving simpler times lead to the release of hundreds of movies falling through the proverbial PC cracks, can sometimes bypass all that nonsense and solidify itself as a 'classic.'
Now, most of the movie is purely about the dogs escaping the clutches of Cruella and traveling undetected through the English Countryside, culminating into a car chase at the end of the film. All in all, a simple plot for such a zany idea for a story. Luckily, the film holds up with a ton of charm, that made for a pleasant revisit in my opinion.
This movie also plays the age old tune of animals outsmarting humans. Which kind of became an ongoing theme for Disney during the 60s, as many animal focused live action films followed this animated one. But one thing still has yet to be answered for me....... What do I, as a starry-eyed adult, who desires morals and meaning from my nostalgic revisits to my childhood films get out of this film??
Well, it could be seen as a ode to dogs, much as Lady and the Tramp was. Or, as a testament to the intelligence of the protagonist dogs as they outsmart Cruella and escape her clutches..... OR, maybe it is what it is....... pure gimmicky fluff devised from a book that had all the makings of saving an animation studio from financial ruin, that has some charming animals in it that any audience would love. I'll leave that for you all to decide!
Next up is The Sword in the Stone! See you all next time!
P.S. For those of you curious...... there are EXACTLY 6,469,952 dog spots in this film...... the more you know!!
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
"Once upon a dream...."
Sleeping Beauty (1959)
And now, in my humble opinion, we arrive at the review of Disney's Masterpiece.
Nearly 5 years after Disney's previous animated movie (Lady and the Tramp), Sleeping Beauty was released in theaters to wide appraise. Also marking itself at the most expensive animated film to date at the time. And boy does it show!
Every aspect of this film, from it's beautiful art style reminiscent of old medieval tapestries, it's sweeping orchestral score, pulling songs from Tchaikovsky's ballet of the same name, to the iconic character designs. Many, including myself, rank this as the best animated film Disney ever produced.
Disney's popularity at the time was also at it's peak, with Disneyland having been open for 4 years, and many live action tv and movies constantly being churned out. Unfortunately, even this film's wide success couldn't recoup the six million dollar cost of this film.
Coming back to see this film reminds me of how timeless I find it, and how my love of it is undying. To this day, every time I see it, I am constantly inspired by it's art direction and style. The whole film truly feels like a moving tapestry. The scenes of Aurora wandering and singing through the forest, and when the fairies fly over the kingdom putting everyone into a magic slumber have never left my memory as a source of constant artistic inspiration. I remember as a child pausing the movie at certain parts and desperately trying to emulate on paper what I saw.
This movie also features the most iconic villain ever to come out of Disney's film vault... Maleficent. Terrifying, memorable, and mesmerizing, she stands out in many people's mind as the penultimate antagonist. Being voiced by another iconic actress, Eleanor Audley who's other work included Cinderella's wicked stepmother, and even Madam Leota in the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland.
So, a funny fact I noticed about this movie is how little the title character is featured throughout the movie. Aurora, herself, is only on screen for a total of 18 minutes. Making me evaluate what this story is truly about. The three fairies protecting her seem to be what this story is really about, as they hold the most screen time. Luckily, all three are charming and likable, with quirky personalities and dynamics between each other. In fact, the on going feud between the blue and pink fairy over what color Aurora's dress should be was carried over from the animation team's own indecisiveness over the final design.
Over the entire course of the film, all three of them, with the exception of Prince Phillip at the climatic battle at the end of the film, carry almost the entire plot. Making me conclude that this movie is about them, and their protection over the fair princess, ensuring that she gets her happily ever after.
As the movie drew to a close, I reflected back on it. First of all, the battle between Maleficent and the Prince is epic, perilous, and everything a fairy tale fight between good and evil should be. Also, Maleficent's death via enchanted sword through the heart is shockingly violent by today's standards for an animated film, but fitting for such a despicable character. And finally, I dwelled on the message to walk away with from the story....
Most fairy tales were created to teach children lessons on morality and sense. Red Riding Hood was about the dangers of talking to strangers, The Three Little Pigs were about the value of bricks as a resource, etc. So what to we get out of a story about a girl falling into a deep sleep, only to be awakened by true love's first kiss??? Aurora's peril is caused by her own parents not inviting an incredibly awful women of power to her christening. And most of the important plot points are due to things like magic, curses, and fate. Not usually something that allows someone to walk away with some good old fashioned sensible knowledge...
So perhaps, if we dig to the root of the drive of the main characters, we begin to see the message to take away from it all. The three fairies from the beginning of the film to the end are devoted to the well being of Aurora. They brought blessings to her as a child to bring her good fortune and prosperity throughout her life, and after Maleficent's curse, they made a promise to the King that they would protect her until danger was no longer in her future, Along the way, caring for her as if she was their own child....
So maybe that's it, this is a story of love and devotion, and the importance of following through with the promises we keep to cherish and protect the one's we hold dear to our hearts. After all, don't most happily ever afters rely heavily on those values?
Anyway, this movie ranks as one of my favorites, and revisiting it is always a joy. Next up is 101 Dalmatians, and the first animated film in the 1960s! See you all next time!!
And now, in my humble opinion, we arrive at the review of Disney's Masterpiece.
Nearly 5 years after Disney's previous animated movie (Lady and the Tramp), Sleeping Beauty was released in theaters to wide appraise. Also marking itself at the most expensive animated film to date at the time. And boy does it show!
Every aspect of this film, from it's beautiful art style reminiscent of old medieval tapestries, it's sweeping orchestral score, pulling songs from Tchaikovsky's ballet of the same name, to the iconic character designs. Many, including myself, rank this as the best animated film Disney ever produced.
Disney's popularity at the time was also at it's peak, with Disneyland having been open for 4 years, and many live action tv and movies constantly being churned out. Unfortunately, even this film's wide success couldn't recoup the six million dollar cost of this film.
Coming back to see this film reminds me of how timeless I find it, and how my love of it is undying. To this day, every time I see it, I am constantly inspired by it's art direction and style. The whole film truly feels like a moving tapestry. The scenes of Aurora wandering and singing through the forest, and when the fairies fly over the kingdom putting everyone into a magic slumber have never left my memory as a source of constant artistic inspiration. I remember as a child pausing the movie at certain parts and desperately trying to emulate on paper what I saw.
This movie also features the most iconic villain ever to come out of Disney's film vault... Maleficent. Terrifying, memorable, and mesmerizing, she stands out in many people's mind as the penultimate antagonist. Being voiced by another iconic actress, Eleanor Audley who's other work included Cinderella's wicked stepmother, and even Madam Leota in the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland.
So, a funny fact I noticed about this movie is how little the title character is featured throughout the movie. Aurora, herself, is only on screen for a total of 18 minutes. Making me evaluate what this story is truly about. The three fairies protecting her seem to be what this story is really about, as they hold the most screen time. Luckily, all three are charming and likable, with quirky personalities and dynamics between each other. In fact, the on going feud between the blue and pink fairy over what color Aurora's dress should be was carried over from the animation team's own indecisiveness over the final design.
Over the entire course of the film, all three of them, with the exception of Prince Phillip at the climatic battle at the end of the film, carry almost the entire plot. Making me conclude that this movie is about them, and their protection over the fair princess, ensuring that she gets her happily ever after.
As the movie drew to a close, I reflected back on it. First of all, the battle between Maleficent and the Prince is epic, perilous, and everything a fairy tale fight between good and evil should be. Also, Maleficent's death via enchanted sword through the heart is shockingly violent by today's standards for an animated film, but fitting for such a despicable character. And finally, I dwelled on the message to walk away with from the story....
Most fairy tales were created to teach children lessons on morality and sense. Red Riding Hood was about the dangers of talking to strangers, The Three Little Pigs were about the value of bricks as a resource, etc. So what to we get out of a story about a girl falling into a deep sleep, only to be awakened by true love's first kiss??? Aurora's peril is caused by her own parents not inviting an incredibly awful women of power to her christening. And most of the important plot points are due to things like magic, curses, and fate. Not usually something that allows someone to walk away with some good old fashioned sensible knowledge...
So perhaps, if we dig to the root of the drive of the main characters, we begin to see the message to take away from it all. The three fairies from the beginning of the film to the end are devoted to the well being of Aurora. They brought blessings to her as a child to bring her good fortune and prosperity throughout her life, and after Maleficent's curse, they made a promise to the King that they would protect her until danger was no longer in her future, Along the way, caring for her as if she was their own child....
So maybe that's it, this is a story of love and devotion, and the importance of following through with the promises we keep to cherish and protect the one's we hold dear to our hearts. After all, don't most happily ever afters rely heavily on those values?
Anyway, this movie ranks as one of my favorites, and revisiting it is always a joy. Next up is 101 Dalmatians, and the first animated film in the 1960s! See you all next time!!
Thursday, July 21, 2016
"To wit the wag of a dog's tail"
Lady and the Tramp (1955)
And now, on to one of my all time favorites from the vault. I remember watching this movie over and over again and never tiring of it. Revisiting it, solidified that admiration.
Believe it or not, the inception of this movie began way back when Snow White was finishing production. The idea of writing a story about the life of a family dog from it's own point of view attracted Walt, leading to it becoming his 15th animated film. Proving to be a popular hit with audiences, it was marked the most successful animated movie since Snow White.
This movie, also marks a few beginnings for the studio. It introduced Cinemascope to the animator's repertoire. A filming technique that allowed for larger and wider animated scenes, making the world they create have more of a feeling of space and reality. It also marked the first, and as far as I know only Disney animated movie without a clear villain. That's right, just because Aunt Sara doesn't like dogs, doesn't mean she's evil. And the rat was simply acting out of instinct.
Anyway, this movie hold's a special place in my heart, so seeing it as an adult, and falling in love with it all over again made me very happy.
First off, this movie is gorgeous!!! Cinemascope truly showcased how talented the Disney artists were with their beautiful recreation of small town America at the turn of the 20th century. The studio loosely based the fictional town after Walt's own hometown of Marceline, Missouri, with it's lovely Victorian style houses and manicured streets. The romance of Americana is potent in this movie.
And, speaking of romance...
What a love story this movie hides behind it's animated facade!
The relationship between Lady and Tramp, and how it evolves over the course of the story, has enough depth for any adult to respond to. And might I just say, Bella Notte is still one of my favorite love songs from any of the Disney films. Hard to believe Disney almost cut it from the film.
As far as characters go, humanizing dogs with personalities, wants, and fears, still to this day isn't something we tire of as movie going audiences. As a matter of fact, I believe a certain Secret Life of Pets is currently in theaters as I write this. Seeing them respond to the strange world of their owners, and dwell over the perplexity of what the ramifications of a baby really is, truly is charming and entertaining. Despite Disney's continued demonification of cats ('We are Siamese"), the songs who were written with help from widely known songstress of the time, Peggy Lee, are very memorable. Despite how few of them the movie overall holds.
Overall, Lady and the Tramp is a wonderful story about love and devotion to our families. And how sometimes our worst fears, weather it's babies, or leashes and dog licenses, are sometimes blown out of proportion. We see both the main characters evolve over the course of the movie as they explore these things they know nothing about, and find they aren't nearly as scary as what they originally perceived. Tramp's idea of living on a leash is changed due to his love for Lady. As her naivety and street smarts are changed due to Tramp. It furthers my theory that people come into our lives at given moments when they have something we can learn from them. Our differences from each other allow us to grow and shape ourselves into who we need to be, and sometimes leads us to happiness and fulfillment. Which, in this case, is even true for dogs.
So there you have it, Lady and the Tramp still holds up well to today's standards. And I highly recommend a revisit to this old tale of two star-crossed canines! Next up is Sleeping Beauty, see you all in 1959!!
And now, on to one of my all time favorites from the vault. I remember watching this movie over and over again and never tiring of it. Revisiting it, solidified that admiration.
Believe it or not, the inception of this movie began way back when Snow White was finishing production. The idea of writing a story about the life of a family dog from it's own point of view attracted Walt, leading to it becoming his 15th animated film. Proving to be a popular hit with audiences, it was marked the most successful animated movie since Snow White.
This movie, also marks a few beginnings for the studio. It introduced Cinemascope to the animator's repertoire. A filming technique that allowed for larger and wider animated scenes, making the world they create have more of a feeling of space and reality. It also marked the first, and as far as I know only Disney animated movie without a clear villain. That's right, just because Aunt Sara doesn't like dogs, doesn't mean she's evil. And the rat was simply acting out of instinct.
Anyway, this movie hold's a special place in my heart, so seeing it as an adult, and falling in love with it all over again made me very happy.
First off, this movie is gorgeous!!! Cinemascope truly showcased how talented the Disney artists were with their beautiful recreation of small town America at the turn of the 20th century. The studio loosely based the fictional town after Walt's own hometown of Marceline, Missouri, with it's lovely Victorian style houses and manicured streets. The romance of Americana is potent in this movie.
And, speaking of romance...
What a love story this movie hides behind it's animated facade!
The relationship between Lady and Tramp, and how it evolves over the course of the story, has enough depth for any adult to respond to. And might I just say, Bella Notte is still one of my favorite love songs from any of the Disney films. Hard to believe Disney almost cut it from the film.
As far as characters go, humanizing dogs with personalities, wants, and fears, still to this day isn't something we tire of as movie going audiences. As a matter of fact, I believe a certain Secret Life of Pets is currently in theaters as I write this. Seeing them respond to the strange world of their owners, and dwell over the perplexity of what the ramifications of a baby really is, truly is charming and entertaining. Despite Disney's continued demonification of cats ('We are Siamese"), the songs who were written with help from widely known songstress of the time, Peggy Lee, are very memorable. Despite how few of them the movie overall holds.
Overall, Lady and the Tramp is a wonderful story about love and devotion to our families. And how sometimes our worst fears, weather it's babies, or leashes and dog licenses, are sometimes blown out of proportion. We see both the main characters evolve over the course of the movie as they explore these things they know nothing about, and find they aren't nearly as scary as what they originally perceived. Tramp's idea of living on a leash is changed due to his love for Lady. As her naivety and street smarts are changed due to Tramp. It furthers my theory that people come into our lives at given moments when they have something we can learn from them. Our differences from each other allow us to grow and shape ourselves into who we need to be, and sometimes leads us to happiness and fulfillment. Which, in this case, is even true for dogs.
So there you have it, Lady and the Tramp still holds up well to today's standards. And I highly recommend a revisit to this old tale of two star-crossed canines! Next up is Sleeping Beauty, see you all in 1959!!
Monday, July 18, 2016
"All of this has happened before, and it will all happen again"
Peter Pan (1953)
With the box office disappointment of Alice in Wonderland, Disney never lost momentum and kept going strong right into the animated adaptation of J. M. Barrie's story of Peter Pan. Continuing the theme of escaping the mundane responsibilities everyday life brings us that Wonderland already explored. Only this time, a box office hit was what they had.
Many people strongly love this story. The idea of a place you can escape to where children never grow up, with pirates, mermaids, indians, and fairies that made you fly. It's a story that's hard not to love. Most people born within the western world these last one hundred years have dreamed of being whisked off to Neverland. Myself included.
Returning to this movie, for me, had me excited since out of many of the classic films, this one had been one I hadn't seen in MANY years. And most of the finer details had escaped my memory, so I knew going in, that a fresh perspective was what I was definitely going to get.
So.....
Let me begin by saying one major thing I had forgotten about this movie....
Peter Pan is an a-hole.
When your a child, and you are mesmerized by the magic of the story, and the grand adventure of it all, the finer details go over your head. But seeing this through the eyes of adulthood, the appeal of Neverland escapes me. Which, in some sort of irony, fits with the theme of the story. Peter Pan truly is the essence of youth. The one child who figured out how to escape the confines of mortality and achieve eternal youth. And his avoidance of maturity is quite apparent. He's boastful, ambivalent, immature, and completely oblivious of his treatment to the people around him.
In fact, Disney smoothed a lot of Peter's truly darker characteristics out of his telling of the story. In the original story, he killed the Lost Boys who showed signs of aging, or just to remind them of who was in charge. Making many people believe that the pirates were made up of lost boys who managed to escape him....
Yeah, kinda paints a new perspective of the flying sociopath, huh?
Anyway, the Darling children all get wrapped up on the wonderment of Neverland with the exception of Wendy. Who, out of all three, is on the cusp of growing up. So it makes sense for her to see through the veil, and find that staying a child forever isn't all that it cracks up to be. Once again, bringing the common ground of this movie and Wonderland together even more.
Aside from how unappealing a person the titular hero turns out to be, this movie shocked me with it's violence, drug use, and racism. Not only does the movie feature ALL of the children sharing a peace pipe with the natives, right before the break out into the ever popular musical number "What Makes the Red Man, Red?", but also features Captain Hook blatantly shooting one of his men dead. I had to pick my jaw off the ground quite a few times. Never before has a Disney film truly showed it age than this movie. So don't expect a theatrical re-release anytime soon, folks!
All political incorrectness aside, the movie holds up well, with a strong voice cast such as Hans Conried (a man with one of the best British speaking voices ever to grace this earth), Kathryn Beaumont (whom we already know as Alice from the previous movie), and many others. Also, the animation truly stands out strong, due to Disney's use of live action filming for animators to reference. Lots of strong points overwhelm the cons of this movie for sure.
But reflecting back on this movie, reminds me of why we love to revisit it. Especially as an adult. As we age, our sense of 'play' and 'adventure' lessens, as we are overburdened with the everyday responsibilities of adulthood. Wendy's parents see her maturity at the beginning of the movie, and suggest the idea of moving out of the playroom, and straight into adulthood. Every child's nightmare. But, by visiting the extremity of Neverland, we are all reminded of why growth and maturity are just as vital to life as youth. And the ticking crocodile of death is something we all have to face, eventually. And just as the movie says in the beginning, this right of passage has happened before, and it will happen perpetually over and over again.
Neverland is where we all learn to grow up.
With the box office disappointment of Alice in Wonderland, Disney never lost momentum and kept going strong right into the animated adaptation of J. M. Barrie's story of Peter Pan. Continuing the theme of escaping the mundane responsibilities everyday life brings us that Wonderland already explored. Only this time, a box office hit was what they had.
Many people strongly love this story. The idea of a place you can escape to where children never grow up, with pirates, mermaids, indians, and fairies that made you fly. It's a story that's hard not to love. Most people born within the western world these last one hundred years have dreamed of being whisked off to Neverland. Myself included.
Returning to this movie, for me, had me excited since out of many of the classic films, this one had been one I hadn't seen in MANY years. And most of the finer details had escaped my memory, so I knew going in, that a fresh perspective was what I was definitely going to get.
So.....
Let me begin by saying one major thing I had forgotten about this movie....
Peter Pan is an a-hole.
When your a child, and you are mesmerized by the magic of the story, and the grand adventure of it all, the finer details go over your head. But seeing this through the eyes of adulthood, the appeal of Neverland escapes me. Which, in some sort of irony, fits with the theme of the story. Peter Pan truly is the essence of youth. The one child who figured out how to escape the confines of mortality and achieve eternal youth. And his avoidance of maturity is quite apparent. He's boastful, ambivalent, immature, and completely oblivious of his treatment to the people around him.
In fact, Disney smoothed a lot of Peter's truly darker characteristics out of his telling of the story. In the original story, he killed the Lost Boys who showed signs of aging, or just to remind them of who was in charge. Making many people believe that the pirates were made up of lost boys who managed to escape him....
Yeah, kinda paints a new perspective of the flying sociopath, huh?
Anyway, the Darling children all get wrapped up on the wonderment of Neverland with the exception of Wendy. Who, out of all three, is on the cusp of growing up. So it makes sense for her to see through the veil, and find that staying a child forever isn't all that it cracks up to be. Once again, bringing the common ground of this movie and Wonderland together even more.
Aside from how unappealing a person the titular hero turns out to be, this movie shocked me with it's violence, drug use, and racism. Not only does the movie feature ALL of the children sharing a peace pipe with the natives, right before the break out into the ever popular musical number "What Makes the Red Man, Red?", but also features Captain Hook blatantly shooting one of his men dead. I had to pick my jaw off the ground quite a few times. Never before has a Disney film truly showed it age than this movie. So don't expect a theatrical re-release anytime soon, folks!
All political incorrectness aside, the movie holds up well, with a strong voice cast such as Hans Conried (a man with one of the best British speaking voices ever to grace this earth), Kathryn Beaumont (whom we already know as Alice from the previous movie), and many others. Also, the animation truly stands out strong, due to Disney's use of live action filming for animators to reference. Lots of strong points overwhelm the cons of this movie for sure.
But reflecting back on this movie, reminds me of why we love to revisit it. Especially as an adult. As we age, our sense of 'play' and 'adventure' lessens, as we are overburdened with the everyday responsibilities of adulthood. Wendy's parents see her maturity at the beginning of the movie, and suggest the idea of moving out of the playroom, and straight into adulthood. Every child's nightmare. But, by visiting the extremity of Neverland, we are all reminded of why growth and maturity are just as vital to life as youth. And the ticking crocodile of death is something we all have to face, eventually. And just as the movie says in the beginning, this right of passage has happened before, and it will happen perpetually over and over again.
Neverland is where we all learn to grow up.
Sunday, June 26, 2016
"Why is a Raven like a Writing Desk?"
Alice in Wonderland (1951)
So, I have a question.... and I'm gonna get a little philosophical here, so bare with me.
What is it about the human race as a species that makes us so attracted to escaping the normal everyday lives we build for ourselves? Why do we always find the grass greener on the other side? Is there something established deep within our DNA that makes us long for adventure, and yearn for what we don't have? I begin to ask myself these questions not just in relation to this movie, but almost all of the Disney movies resonate this theme in some way, shape, or form.
Anyway, adventure and escape has begun to draw itself to the forefront as the undercurrent which connects these movies with each other, and perhaps in some way, explains why Disney is so popular. The company specializes in scratching that itch we all have, to escape the norm, fall down the rabbit hole, see and experience outside of what is possible in our own lives, and perhaps keep us persevering to chase down our own happily ever after....
Anyway, sorry to ramble, but it was a bit of an epiphany for myself after this movie, but back on topic with the review!!!
So, this movie, and story in general, is such a phenomenon in so many ways. It exists so firmly in pop culture and popularity with so many people, and the odd thing about it is, it truly is a story about nothing. The original book, which the movie is based off of has almost no plot to carry it. Its mostly a series of strange and unusual scenarios, with a young girl as the only grounded character drifting her way through them all. How does this earn itself at the heights of popular storytelling?
Disney, after the massive success of Cinderella, poured the cash-flow immediately into more projects with bigger and grander ideas, the first of which was the adaptation of the Lewis Carroll classic.
Unfortunately, the film under performed in the box office, which would become an ongoing theme with every film incarnation of the Alice stories. And, like Fantasia before it, found new life in the 1960's with it's surreal and head tripping themes. And now hold a cult following, with many ranking it among the best animated films.
Again, I must ask what it is about this nonsense story that holds itself with such high regard?? It has some amusement in the odd characters that populate Wonderland with their strange backwards behaviors. But other than that, the plot is simple; A young girl is bored with her everyday life, wishes for a world where everything is nonsense, gets to see it, and finds out what an awful choice that is.
As a kid, I fell into the herd, finding this movie endlessly entertaining with it's fantastic art style (due to the contribution if long time Disney artist, Mary Blair). Now, as an adult, revisiting Wonderland has me questioning what about it is so appealing. Every character Alice encounters is rude, short tempered, childish, stubborn, contrary, and even mildly malicious. Again, what about this literary place is so appealing?
I fall back once again to my earlier epiphanies. Wonderland exists to give us what we all want, in addition to reminding us of what we already have. And that perhaps is what we're supposed to walk away with from it. Turning our lives upside down to pursue ambivalence and bewilderment has its ups and downs, and most of the time, it gets old. The simplicity of everyday life may get dreary, but we must never take it for granted, otherwise you may fall too far, and truly lose your head. But every once in a while, we need adventure, to cleanse our spirit, awaken our values, and to breathe new life into the norm, and make us cherish it for what it is!
So while head cases, and shrinks can try and pick apart the symbolism that may exist between the lines of this story, I see it as an adventure for those who long for a piece of chaos to satisfy their craving, without the repercussions.
All in all, a Disney classic that will continue to reincarnate itself in every generation to come.
So, I have a question.... and I'm gonna get a little philosophical here, so bare with me.
What is it about the human race as a species that makes us so attracted to escaping the normal everyday lives we build for ourselves? Why do we always find the grass greener on the other side? Is there something established deep within our DNA that makes us long for adventure, and yearn for what we don't have? I begin to ask myself these questions not just in relation to this movie, but almost all of the Disney movies resonate this theme in some way, shape, or form.
Anyway, adventure and escape has begun to draw itself to the forefront as the undercurrent which connects these movies with each other, and perhaps in some way, explains why Disney is so popular. The company specializes in scratching that itch we all have, to escape the norm, fall down the rabbit hole, see and experience outside of what is possible in our own lives, and perhaps keep us persevering to chase down our own happily ever after....
Anyway, sorry to ramble, but it was a bit of an epiphany for myself after this movie, but back on topic with the review!!!
So, this movie, and story in general, is such a phenomenon in so many ways. It exists so firmly in pop culture and popularity with so many people, and the odd thing about it is, it truly is a story about nothing. The original book, which the movie is based off of has almost no plot to carry it. Its mostly a series of strange and unusual scenarios, with a young girl as the only grounded character drifting her way through them all. How does this earn itself at the heights of popular storytelling?
Disney, after the massive success of Cinderella, poured the cash-flow immediately into more projects with bigger and grander ideas, the first of which was the adaptation of the Lewis Carroll classic.
Unfortunately, the film under performed in the box office, which would become an ongoing theme with every film incarnation of the Alice stories. And, like Fantasia before it, found new life in the 1960's with it's surreal and head tripping themes. And now hold a cult following, with many ranking it among the best animated films.
Again, I must ask what it is about this nonsense story that holds itself with such high regard?? It has some amusement in the odd characters that populate Wonderland with their strange backwards behaviors. But other than that, the plot is simple; A young girl is bored with her everyday life, wishes for a world where everything is nonsense, gets to see it, and finds out what an awful choice that is.
As a kid, I fell into the herd, finding this movie endlessly entertaining with it's fantastic art style (due to the contribution if long time Disney artist, Mary Blair). Now, as an adult, revisiting Wonderland has me questioning what about it is so appealing. Every character Alice encounters is rude, short tempered, childish, stubborn, contrary, and even mildly malicious. Again, what about this literary place is so appealing?
I fall back once again to my earlier epiphanies. Wonderland exists to give us what we all want, in addition to reminding us of what we already have. And that perhaps is what we're supposed to walk away with from it. Turning our lives upside down to pursue ambivalence and bewilderment has its ups and downs, and most of the time, it gets old. The simplicity of everyday life may get dreary, but we must never take it for granted, otherwise you may fall too far, and truly lose your head. But every once in a while, we need adventure, to cleanse our spirit, awaken our values, and to breathe new life into the norm, and make us cherish it for what it is!
So while head cases, and shrinks can try and pick apart the symbolism that may exist between the lines of this story, I see it as an adventure for those who long for a piece of chaos to satisfy their craving, without the repercussions.
All in all, a Disney classic that will continue to reincarnate itself in every generation to come.
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
"If the shoe fits...."
Cinderella (1950)
With World War II finally ended, The Walt Disney Studios returned to work, with full funding and work force at their fingertips. And they set out to undertake Disney's final attempt to revive the studio from too many box office disappointments. Cinderella, would be his last chance to save the studio from financial ruin.
Luckily, a hit was exactly what they had. The profit from box office sales, music publishing, record sales, and merchandise set the cash flowing to allow Disney to slate numerous animated and live action films, in addition to tv productions, and a certain theme park we've all come to love.
Cinderella, arguably, allowed The Disney Company to be what it is today.
As I sat down to watch what many consider to be the penultimate Disney film, I reflected on my history of it. No necessarily one of my favorite from the vaults, I still overall liked it as a kid. Perhaps the heavy theme of fulfilling young girls dreams didn't sync with a young plucky kid such as myself. Anyway, after watching as an adult, the film has evolved into a mixed bag for me...
Once again, the Disney studios produced a one dimensional female protagonists for young children to idolize. She's beautiful, kind, gentle (arguably too gentle), and has a singing voice that could have easily lead her to a life far away from the oppression of her stepmother and stepsisters. But most of all, she simply wishes and dreams of a better life for herself as she works the the menial tasks her wardens come up with for her, with a ho hum and a sigh that maybe someday her dreams will come true. And nothing ever changes.
Most of the plot is carried by her small animal friends (another Disney trademark), who seem to be the only ones with a take charge attitude towards a better life for our heroine. They make her dress, drive her to the ball, help her escape captivity during the last segment of the movie.... Most of Cindy's happiness is owed to the mice and birds.
Don't get me wrong, the movie is full of charm, and catchy songs, and a heavy theme of happily ever after. However logic and reason can't help but worm their way into my critique. I mean, the whole story takes place over a twenty four hour period. Cindy wakes up, starts her chores, the ball is announced the day of, she goes, loses her slipper, the king immediately sends the grand duke out into the kingdom to find her, she puts the slipper on again the morning after, BAM, married before brunch.
Pretty nuts.
Let alone the fact that Cinderella picks up the ball where Snow White left it, a couple hours dancing with a prince is hardly grounds for declaring a lifetime of matrimony.....
Again, sorry, but logic and reason argue a strong case.
All of that aside,the movie holds up to the standards Disney has pretty much set for all it's animated movies. And most people I know love this movie, so what's one man's opinion?
On another note, I feel it must be mentioned, the traumatic scene of Cinderella getting her clothes ripped off of her by her stepsisters. I think that was not only mine, but many kids introduction into bullying. Of course, looking back now, the context of the scene makes a little more sense..... That wasn't your sash, Cindy. You need to ask first!
Despite the abuse, Cinderella's consistent optimism and her ability to find as much joy and hope in the world as she can given her dismal circumstances is pretty admirable. And something I find myself taking note of to apply to situations I find myself in my own life. Her character drove her friends to help make her dreams come true, which goes as far as to preach the idea that good things happen to good people, as naive of an idea as it is.
I only hope Cindy repayed the favor and set her rodent friends up in the castle with their own sweet digs.
With World War II finally ended, The Walt Disney Studios returned to work, with full funding and work force at their fingertips. And they set out to undertake Disney's final attempt to revive the studio from too many box office disappointments. Cinderella, would be his last chance to save the studio from financial ruin.
Luckily, a hit was exactly what they had. The profit from box office sales, music publishing, record sales, and merchandise set the cash flowing to allow Disney to slate numerous animated and live action films, in addition to tv productions, and a certain theme park we've all come to love.
Cinderella, arguably, allowed The Disney Company to be what it is today.
As I sat down to watch what many consider to be the penultimate Disney film, I reflected on my history of it. No necessarily one of my favorite from the vaults, I still overall liked it as a kid. Perhaps the heavy theme of fulfilling young girls dreams didn't sync with a young plucky kid such as myself. Anyway, after watching as an adult, the film has evolved into a mixed bag for me...
Once again, the Disney studios produced a one dimensional female protagonists for young children to idolize. She's beautiful, kind, gentle (arguably too gentle), and has a singing voice that could have easily lead her to a life far away from the oppression of her stepmother and stepsisters. But most of all, she simply wishes and dreams of a better life for herself as she works the the menial tasks her wardens come up with for her, with a ho hum and a sigh that maybe someday her dreams will come true. And nothing ever changes.
Most of the plot is carried by her small animal friends (another Disney trademark), who seem to be the only ones with a take charge attitude towards a better life for our heroine. They make her dress, drive her to the ball, help her escape captivity during the last segment of the movie.... Most of Cindy's happiness is owed to the mice and birds.
Don't get me wrong, the movie is full of charm, and catchy songs, and a heavy theme of happily ever after. However logic and reason can't help but worm their way into my critique. I mean, the whole story takes place over a twenty four hour period. Cindy wakes up, starts her chores, the ball is announced the day of, she goes, loses her slipper, the king immediately sends the grand duke out into the kingdom to find her, she puts the slipper on again the morning after, BAM, married before brunch.
Pretty nuts.
Let alone the fact that Cinderella picks up the ball where Snow White left it, a couple hours dancing with a prince is hardly grounds for declaring a lifetime of matrimony.....
Again, sorry, but logic and reason argue a strong case.
All of that aside,the movie holds up to the standards Disney has pretty much set for all it's animated movies. And most people I know love this movie, so what's one man's opinion?
On another note, I feel it must be mentioned, the traumatic scene of Cinderella getting her clothes ripped off of her by her stepsisters. I think that was not only mine, but many kids introduction into bullying. Of course, looking back now, the context of the scene makes a little more sense..... That wasn't your sash, Cindy. You need to ask first!
Despite the abuse, Cinderella's consistent optimism and her ability to find as much joy and hope in the world as she can given her dismal circumstances is pretty admirable. And something I find myself taking note of to apply to situations I find myself in my own life. Her character drove her friends to help make her dreams come true, which goes as far as to preach the idea that good things happen to good people, as naive of an idea as it is.
I only hope Cindy repayed the favor and set her rodent friends up in the castle with their own sweet digs.
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Package Films: Part IV
The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949)
The final entry into the Package Film section of the Disney canon, and this one has one of my favorites. I will be splitting this review into two parts, due to the fact that both stories are pretty different, and well worth each having their own review. And we'll start with J. Thadeus Toad first!
The Wind in the Willows
Disney continued his foray into adapting existing literature into animated film with this short, that I must say is very far from the original text..... Also a trademark of Walt's.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the original children's novel this is based off of, The Wind in the Willows is about a group of anthropomorphised animals living in a pastoral version of England at the beginning of the 20th century. What made the book so good, was it showed these animals with very human traits and faults, but allowed the reader to fall in love with them despite their short comings.
Now, fast forward to the Disney version, which brought most of those faults (specifically those of Toad with his 'manias' towards fast vehicles and general shenanigans), and turned them into a hyperactive, surprisingly violent animated story with VERY British humor and terminology. What was once a charming idyllic story, became a darkly humorous tale about a rich amphibian with a habit of grand theft auto and vandalism that got himself into too much trouble with the law, and retakes his mansion from thieves, with a whole bunch of guns, knives, and rough housing thrown in between it all.
Overall, I was shocked at just how violent this was. Again, going with the continuous discovery of how much goes over our heads as children, I could not believe I was ever allowed to watch this. Toad's behavior alone would be seen as highly inappropriate by today's standards. Stealing cars, giving into reckless indulgences, and general selfishness aren't really great for the moral compasses most children's movies steer themselves with in today's cinema... And honestly, this isn't the best animated version of this book made (as much as it pains me, as a Disney fan to say it). Regardless, it was a fun, nostalgic trip back into childhood to see this again. And it always reminds me of the ride at Disneyland, which, now that I think about it, also has some pretty adult themes to it too.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
And now onto one of my all time favorite animated films. This short is nostalgia incarnate for me. I will always remember watching this as a child, scared to pieces, but also riveted. Disney took a piece of American folklore, and translated it perfectly to the screen. The art style, the pacing, the collaboration with Bing Crosby's vocals, and the willingness to not sugarcoat the scares makes this one of Disney's best, in my humble opinion.
It also, holds a continuing debate among fans on who the main protagonist is. The story focuses mostly on Ichabod Crane, and his brief stint in Sleepy Hollow, trying to woo Katrina away from Brom. On the other hand, most fans point out, Ichabod's character is painted very unflattering, as it's made quite clear he is driven by greed in his lustings for her, and the tale is more about Brom, the town hero. Seeing through Ichabod's charm, he fights hard for Katrina, and ultimately scares the fraud out of town. Regardless, the story is compelling.
Growing up, in a very rural area all but enhanced this movie for me as a young child, living close to deep wooded areas, always created a strong enthusiasm for me with fairy tales and ghost stories. I would always watch this one around Halloween, and would always think of it as I ventured out to go trick-or-treating among the rural farmland of my childhood.
Disney was given a lot of backlash for this movie when it was first released. Even to this day, parents regularly complain at how terrifying the film is, and not too appropriate for children. He definitely succeeded in creating one of the most frightening villains in his canon with The Headless Horseman, ranking right up there with the Demon from Fantasia's Night on Bald Mountain, and The Horned King from The Black Cauldron. But, again I must repeat what I said earlier in my reviews regarding scares in animated movies, and the balance it creates.
I hearken back to an article I once read regarding a children's movie released some time ago that was deemed almost too scary for children, but when children who had seen the movie were asked about it's scary parts, most of them were un-wavered by it, seeing the necessity of having peril to tell a good story of good triumphing over evil. It seemed their parents were more scared than they were.
Summing things up with this part, it's always fun to revisit this film, it's one of my all time favorites, and I never seem to tire from it. Still slightly terrifying, but necessary to tell the story.
Overall, finding the common connection between these two films seems to be that they both tell tales of severely flawed characters who's action lead them to great problems. The first having somewhat closure near the end with a happy ending but showing he never learned from his mistakes. The second film showing a character driven by greed, and ultimately falling victim to his own superstitions either through an elaborate rouse, or actual demonic intervention. Pretty adult stuff I must say, and even I walk away wondering how appropriate it is for youth. Nevertheless, i enjoyed myself, as a true fan would!
The final entry into the Package Film section of the Disney canon, and this one has one of my favorites. I will be splitting this review into two parts, due to the fact that both stories are pretty different, and well worth each having their own review. And we'll start with J. Thadeus Toad first!
The Wind in the Willows
Disney continued his foray into adapting existing literature into animated film with this short, that I must say is very far from the original text..... Also a trademark of Walt's.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the original children's novel this is based off of, The Wind in the Willows is about a group of anthropomorphised animals living in a pastoral version of England at the beginning of the 20th century. What made the book so good, was it showed these animals with very human traits and faults, but allowed the reader to fall in love with them despite their short comings.
Now, fast forward to the Disney version, which brought most of those faults (specifically those of Toad with his 'manias' towards fast vehicles and general shenanigans), and turned them into a hyperactive, surprisingly violent animated story with VERY British humor and terminology. What was once a charming idyllic story, became a darkly humorous tale about a rich amphibian with a habit of grand theft auto and vandalism that got himself into too much trouble with the law, and retakes his mansion from thieves, with a whole bunch of guns, knives, and rough housing thrown in between it all.
Overall, I was shocked at just how violent this was. Again, going with the continuous discovery of how much goes over our heads as children, I could not believe I was ever allowed to watch this. Toad's behavior alone would be seen as highly inappropriate by today's standards. Stealing cars, giving into reckless indulgences, and general selfishness aren't really great for the moral compasses most children's movies steer themselves with in today's cinema... And honestly, this isn't the best animated version of this book made (as much as it pains me, as a Disney fan to say it). Regardless, it was a fun, nostalgic trip back into childhood to see this again. And it always reminds me of the ride at Disneyland, which, now that I think about it, also has some pretty adult themes to it too.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
And now onto one of my all time favorite animated films. This short is nostalgia incarnate for me. I will always remember watching this as a child, scared to pieces, but also riveted. Disney took a piece of American folklore, and translated it perfectly to the screen. The art style, the pacing, the collaboration with Bing Crosby's vocals, and the willingness to not sugarcoat the scares makes this one of Disney's best, in my humble opinion.
It also, holds a continuing debate among fans on who the main protagonist is. The story focuses mostly on Ichabod Crane, and his brief stint in Sleepy Hollow, trying to woo Katrina away from Brom. On the other hand, most fans point out, Ichabod's character is painted very unflattering, as it's made quite clear he is driven by greed in his lustings for her, and the tale is more about Brom, the town hero. Seeing through Ichabod's charm, he fights hard for Katrina, and ultimately scares the fraud out of town. Regardless, the story is compelling.
Growing up, in a very rural area all but enhanced this movie for me as a young child, living close to deep wooded areas, always created a strong enthusiasm for me with fairy tales and ghost stories. I would always watch this one around Halloween, and would always think of it as I ventured out to go trick-or-treating among the rural farmland of my childhood.
Disney was given a lot of backlash for this movie when it was first released. Even to this day, parents regularly complain at how terrifying the film is, and not too appropriate for children. He definitely succeeded in creating one of the most frightening villains in his canon with The Headless Horseman, ranking right up there with the Demon from Fantasia's Night on Bald Mountain, and The Horned King from The Black Cauldron. But, again I must repeat what I said earlier in my reviews regarding scares in animated movies, and the balance it creates.
I hearken back to an article I once read regarding a children's movie released some time ago that was deemed almost too scary for children, but when children who had seen the movie were asked about it's scary parts, most of them were un-wavered by it, seeing the necessity of having peril to tell a good story of good triumphing over evil. It seemed their parents were more scared than they were.
Summing things up with this part, it's always fun to revisit this film, it's one of my all time favorites, and I never seem to tire from it. Still slightly terrifying, but necessary to tell the story.
Overall, finding the common connection between these two films seems to be that they both tell tales of severely flawed characters who's action lead them to great problems. The first having somewhat closure near the end with a happy ending but showing he never learned from his mistakes. The second film showing a character driven by greed, and ultimately falling victim to his own superstitions either through an elaborate rouse, or actual demonic intervention. Pretty adult stuff I must say, and even I walk away wondering how appropriate it is for youth. Nevertheless, i enjoyed myself, as a true fan would!
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