Dumbo (1941)

Genres

Animation, Drama

Directors

Ben Sharpsteen, Norman Ferguson, Wilfred Jackson, Bill Roberts, Jack Kinney, Samuel Armstrong

Country

USA

Voice Cast

Edward Brophy, Verna Felton, Cliff Edwards, Herman Bing, Margaret Wright, Sterling Holloway, The Hall Johnson, The King's Men, Noreen Gammill, Dorothy Scott, Sarah Selby, Malcolm Hutton, Billy Bletcher

Storyline

Ridiculed because of his enormous ears, a young circus elephant is assisted by a mouse to achieve his full potential.

Opinion

I grew up watching Disney classics such as Fantasia, Pinocchio, Peter Pan and Bambi but I don't think I've ever seen Dumbo. All I knew/remembered before (re)watching it was an elephant with big ears and a train. I didn't even know he was in a circus. That said, I really enjoyed watching it because it was such a poetic and sweet film.

Although it is a little tragic and dramatic, the story of Dumbo is simple and moving, and it's that kind of story most kids can identify with, from the need to fit in, to the importance of having someone to look after you. And it's essentially an underdog story.

But it is not just that. This film actually shows how the rejection of being different can hurt the people who are victims of prejudice and it does is in such a sensitive way that is perfect for the young audience the film targets. It also shows how important self-acceptance is.

The film's element I enjoyed the most were the characters. Dumbo doesn't even talk, but he is such a likeable character and it's very easy to sympathise with him. Timothy Mouse makes the film more entertaining, and the development of his friendship with Dumbo is beautiful. The crows are amazing as well, both because they are the most clever around and because they show sympathy to Dumbo.

The songs aren't bad either, and the animation, although it is not highly detailed, is simply delightful.

7 comments :

  1. This îs one Disney film that I have not seen. I think I didn't want to see it because I don't want to see another mom hurt

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    Replies
    1. Well, at least the mother doesn't die in here

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  2. Such a classic. I really enjoy this one.

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    Replies
    1. I still haven't found anyone who hasn't :)

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  3. Il finale vale tutto il film! Forza Dumbo :)

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  4. I'd love to see Live Action adaptation of this Disney classic.

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    Replies
    1. I'd love that too, I feel like they'd do a good job.

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