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The animation that drives this film is excellent, but, once one views it several times, one realizes that the film is almost devoid of female characters -- except for the sugery Blue Fairy. All in all, too, some of the most disturbing elements of Pinocchio, the book, have gone missing: the violence, mayhem, and underlying theme of mortality are all played down. Perhaps this was done to make the work more suitable for children -- but the book IS for children, and to sanitize it so completely (and downplay any female element) shows a lack of respect for the sophisticated ways children can approach literature. Sure, Pinocchio learns a moral lesson and becomes, not a wooden puppet, but a real boy, but does this really have to be such a GUY movie?
Today's computer graphics produce animations that are crystal clear and three dimensional. But "Pinocchio," released in 1940, remains more beautiful to look at. It's the difference between science and art. Nothing before or since has matched Disney's second full-length animated feature for its style, refinement, detail, and texture. Add to its visual appeal a charming story, endearing characters, and memorable songs and you get one of the most beloved classics of all time. Its appearance on DVD was long overdue, but it was worth the wait; it is the best version of it we have ever had for home viewing. Based on "The Adventures of Pinocchio," written in 1882 by Italian writer Carlo Collodi, the movie tells the story of an old toy maker, Geppetto, who wishes on the evening star that one of his marionettes might be made alive. That night the Blue Fairy appears to the puppet Pinocchio and brings him to life! But there's a catch: In order for him to become a real person, Pinocchio must prove he is brave, honest, and loyal. To help him choose the straight and narrow way, the fairy appoints Jiminy Cricket as his conscience and guide. The rest of the plot recounts Pinocchio's escapades as a live wooden doll in a very demanding world. Pinocchio's three major adventures concern his sale to an unscrupulous showman; then, his temptations on an island where bad little boys are turned into donkeys; and, finally, his rescue of Geppetto from the belly of a whale. Chief among the film's eye-catching delights are Geppetto's village, gorgeously illustrated like a fine, detailed old painting; the inside of Geppetto's toy shop, with its elaborate clocks and fanciful inventions; and the bottom of the sea, imaginatively realized in the manner of Disney's much later film, "The Little Mermaid." Songs include everybody's favorite, the Academy Award-winning "When You Wish Upon a Star," plus "Little Wooden Head," "Give a Little Whistle," "Hi Diddle Dee Dee," and "I've Got No Strings." Supporting characters not easily forgotten are Figaro and Cleo; Honest John and Gideon; Stromboli; the evil Coachman; Lampwick; and Monstro the whale. The THX-certified picture and sound are as good as they can be. The full-frame picture quality is excellent, regardless of age. Never mind that this film is celebrating its sixtieth anniversary; it's near perfect. Colors are brilliant. Definition is sharp. Depth is impressive, especially in street scenes. Digital artifacts are practically nonexistent. Imaging is solid. Horizontal lines are straight and true. Curved lines are smooth.Read full review
This Disney movie has fantastic camera actions, some of the first of its kind at the time it was originally made. It was a very entertaining movie and we enjoyed seeing it again after so many years.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Walt Disney's second full-length animated feature is a timeless, breathtakingly beautiful classic. Based on an 1800s story by Carlo Collodi, it stars Jiminy Cricket (voiced by Cliff Edwards) as a vagabond insect who spends a rainy night at the shop of toymaker Geppetto. The Blue Fairy brings a marionette to life after Geppetto wishes on a star for a son, and Jiminy Cricket is appointed the new boy's conscience. He has a devil of a time keeping up as Pinocchio is willingly lured through various forms of temptation, the most frightening of which leads him to Pleasure Island, where he drinks, smokes, and is almost turned into a jackass. This sequence, as well as Pinocchio's brave rescue of Geppetto from the belly of a whale, ranks among the most memorable in the history of animation. With such songs as "When You Wish Upon a Star," this is about as magical as cinema can get, a sublimely beautiful coming-of-age story for all to treasure.Read full review
I recently traveled to Florence, Italy where I could not help but notice all the Pinocchio items for sale, so it got me wondering. I researched the history of the author of this original children's classic and it made me want to see it again. Watching it brought back such great memories from my childhood and it was fun to sing the words along with Jimminy Cricket of the wonderful songs. This is a classic Disney movie that is so entertaining to watch and to contemplate the deeper meaning intended of what it means to "follow your conscience" and do the right thing! Loved it!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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