Variety
There's a pleasant little story, plenty of pathos mixed with the large doses of humor, a number of appealing new animal characters, lots of good music, and the usual Disney skillfulness in technique.
Full review
Dumbo (1941)
Walt Disney's fourth animated film about the adorable, giant-eared baby elephant Dumbo. Mocked by his fellow circus animals, Dumbo is loved only by his caged mother and his one pal, Timothy Q. Mouse. With their help he will unlock his full potential.
With a tight running time of only 64 minutes, Dumbo is famous for its deliberate simplicity. With his studio struggling financially, Disney made the film cheaply and quickly. Ditching the detail of Snow White and Pinnochio, a more simplistic, character-driven approach was employed (harking back to the early days of Mickey Mouse) and the result was a beautiful water-colour pallete, economical storytelling and charming characters. Still a remarkable watch 70 years on, Dumbo's enduring charm can't help but leave a smile on your face (as well as pink elephants in your nightmares).
Less1941Rating: G64 minsUSAWalt Disney Animation
AnimatedKids & FamilyMusicalClassic
- Director:
- Ben Sharpsteen ('Pinocchio')
- Writer:
- Joe GrantDick Huemer
- Cast:
- Edward BrophyHerman BingBilly BletcherJames BaskettCliff Edwards