Anastasia / Thumbelina (DVD)

...thinks that either or both Anastasia & Thumbelina are Disney productions THINK AGAIN! Anastasia is a 20th Century Fox production, whilst Thumbelina comes from Warner Brothers. Now that I have that little bugbear out of the way, we are free to continue.

Both of these films played a role equal to that of Disney for me as a child, despite never getting quite the fuss or attention they may have deserved - and would certainly have got ...
...The most beautiful scene in Anastasia for me is 'Once Upon A December'. The combination of an imaginatively choreographed ghostly ballroom chorus dancing with Russian Royalty accompanied by moving lyrics and an appearance from the Czar himself… What could be more magical?
The general depiction of Russia is also so vivid and magical - the artists used real references from places in St Petersburg - I actual have quite a hankering to see the ... more

Having grown up on every animated fairytale feature that was available as a child, I consider myself something of an authority on classic animation films, not only of Disney but of Warner Bros and Dreamworks, Studio Gihbli and many others also. So before I begin I would just like to say to everyone who thinks that either or both Anastasia & Thumbelina are Disney productions THINK AGAIN! Anastasia is a 20th Century Fox production, whilst Thumbelina comes from Warner Brothers. Now that I have that little bugbear out of the way, we are free to continue.

Both of these films played a role equal to that of Disney for me as a child, despite never getting quite the fuss or attention they may have deserved - and would certainly have got if they were attached to the Disney label. I may have a slight bias in that both remind me of that innocence and magic you feel as a child when watching your fairytales come to life. I understand that anyone watching either film for the first time as an adult - particularly one without children or somewhat of a cynic, will almost certainly fail to experience quite the same vie en rose. If you feel yourself falling into this category right now then I suggest you stop reading and go find a more serious, realist documentary to get your teeth into. Otherwise, open your mind and let that inner child bound out!

Having loved both films from childhood, when I spotted both in the same case for £3.99 I jumped at the chance to save some space on my shelf, whilst safe-guarding my childhood loves in a more modern format. I won't simply repeat a synopsis of storylines, as that seems pointless, but here are my summaries of why you (and your kids) should enjoy these films - I'm 17 and still do!

Anastasia

Characters/Script
These are superior to many of Disney's creations, even the more modern ones. The heroine never asks to be rescued for one thing, and isn't constantly portrayed as a simpering and attractive female. The impressive cast of Meg Ryan, John Cusack, Angela Lansbury and Hank Azaria put a very unique and personal touch to the characters which made them particularly memorable, and often amusing. Ryan stated in an interview that what drew her to the project was the witty banter between the leads and the quick-fire retorts that aren't often seen in the Disney counterparts, and this rally sums up what is unique about the film. It is, of course, also partly to do with the more modern day setting, but they carry it off with a flare and style that makes it both fairytale & realism rolled into one.

Music
What I have always admired about the animated musical is the ability of the scorers and lyricists to capture an entire culture and create a world and an atmosphere that really ensnares your ears as much as your eyes. This is carried off with distinction in Anastasia, as I really begin to believe that I am, and want to be, part of post-revolutionary Russia. Particular songs that stood out for me included "There's a Rumour In St Petersburg" (very Russian-sounding introduction to the story), "Once Upon A December" (haunting and my favourite of them all), and the obligatory inspiration song 'You Can Learn To Do It'.

Memorable Scenes
The most beautiful scene in Anastasia for me is 'Once Upon A December'. The combination of an imaginatively choreographed ghostly ballroom chorus dancing with Russian Royalty accompanied by moving lyrics and an appearance from the Czar himself… What could be more magical?
The general depiction of Russia is also so vivid and magical - the artists used real references from places in St Petersburg - I actual have quite a hankering to see the place for myself now.
I suggest caution when watching this film with very young or easily upset children, as it does include a slightly disturbing dream sequence reminiscent of the 'Hellfire' sequence in 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' - though it is nothing more than something my 5 year old cousin jumps onto my lap for until it goes away.

Thumbelina

Characters/Script
Not as quirky and somewhat more predictable than those of Anastasia, and there is the inevitable old-fashioned array of cutesy talking animals, but on the whole the characters voices are matched perfectly to their appearance and personalities. I have to say that I find Cornelius' voice one of the most attractive ever included in an animated film. Maybe I just have a thing for Fairy Princes. In any case, Jodi Benson (of The Little Mermaid fame) brings her perfectly beautiful vocal talent to Thumbelina and really carries the music in this film. Though the cast isn't quite as star-studded as that of Anastasia either, Aladdin fans can watch out for the voice of Iago as the imaginatively titled 'Mr Beetle'. Dialogue isn't as modern, but that can be expected as the setting is more old-fashioned. Still some amusing moments and comments for both adults and children.

Music
Slightly less original and more old-fashioned, but still a worthy rival of earlier Disney classics. The lyrics aren't quite as thought out in some songs as others, but listen out of 'On The Road' simply for its fast-moving and somewhat clever lyrics. 'Follow Your Heart' is also a cheery sing-a-long for the kids. For the pure beauty and musicality of Jodi Benson's flawless vocals though, the stars of the show are clearly 'Soon' and (my favourite) 'Let Me Be Your Wings'. Something about it just makes me sigh with the romanticism of it all. There you go, I'm a closet romantic. Who'd have guessed.

Memorable Scenes
Without a doubt, 'Let me Be Your Wings' is the scene I always picture when someone says 'Thumbelina' It's a combination of music, impressive animation for the time of production and a creatively choreographed scene. Thumbelina and Cornelius dance through the sky on the back of a bumblebee. Tell me what there is not to love. Wish real life was like that. Also, the final scene, makes my heart ache. Though predictable, the love theme reprise and beauty of the vocals just catches on to my longing for a fairytale in y own life. What can I say? It just moves me!

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With all the modern family films these days we often forget the classics… I suggest to you now that you regress back and enjoy the magic of these two films before they are forgotten for good!
Overall, a great combination, and a bargain - If you long for adventure or romance and are willing to see through the eyes of a child. These are fairytales, after all. 

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