Since a lot of the reviews the Movie Guys write are based on blockbuster films, many of which are not suited for family viewing, we like to make sure we spotlight good family movies when they are released. Keeping with tradition, it’s time to take a look at another Disney home video release; The Aristocats.
The Movie:
Released at the end of 1970, The Aristocats was the second film released after Walt Disney’s death. His family empire pressed on and this film follows the tradition of animated hi jinks and memorable musical fun set by the company’s creator.
Set in 1910 Paris, Madame Bonfamille is a retired, actress who lives alone with her four adorable cats; Duchess and her three kittens. When Madame decides to leave her fortune to her cats, the jilted butler decides to get rid of the felines so that he may be the sole inheritor. Under the cloak of darkness he takes the cats and strands them in the country. Duchess and her children then must find their way back to Paris and enlist the help of J.Thomas O’Malley the alley cat, and several other new friends.
The Aristocats follows the Disney formula pretty faithfully. The film is rather short but manages to pack a lot of fun into its 78 minute running time. The characters are cute and the film contains several classic Disney songs written by legendary staff writers The Sherman Brothers.
This might be one film that suits kids better than adults. The movie feels more like a series of shorts tied together than a complete story, but it works. Old timers will recognize the vocal talents of Eva Gabor (if you’re like me, you’ll be thinking of Zsa Zsa the entire time) and Scatman Crothers. Also of note is the title song sung by French legend Maurice Chevalier in his last recorded work. The animation isn’t as rich or crisp as in previous Disney productions, but any complaints about the production will surely take a back seat if you just sit back and enjoy the ride.
The Aristocats isn’t one of Disney’s best, but even their second-tier animated films are better than most. Pick this one up for the kids and you’ll all have a pretty good time.
4 out of 5
The Extras:
Deleted Song – Richard Sherman presents an enjoyable song that didn’t make it into the final cut of the film.
Music and More - This allows you to jump directly to the carefully crafted musical sequences of the film.
Games & Activities – The Virtual Kitty and Fun with Language features are educational word and symbol association games tailored for youngsters
Backstage Disney – Includes a photo gallery, an animated film on the history of the house cat, and a short documentary on Disney’s favorite composers The Sherman Brothers.
Bonus Short: Bath Day
Conclusion:
While this disc may not be loaded with as many bonus features as some recent Disney releases, you probably won’t miss them. Sometimes they give you too much. This release is just the right size, combining a fun film suitable for all ages with just enough bonus features to inform and entertain. This is yet another fine Disney DVD release that comes highly recommended for those looking for fun and innocent family entertainment.
