Reviews (27)

Wonderful, but also see the French film!
Three Men and a Baby is very good I really liked it a lot and thought that all the actors were great! It is about 3 bachelor friends, Jack, Peter and Michael sharing an apartment in New York, the character named Jack is a womanizer who sleeps around a lot and a baby girl namd Mary is left on the doorstep with a note from her mother Sylvia saying that Jack is the father and all three men who know absolutely nothing about babies have to take care of her. It is a wonderful movie and I highly recommend it, it's the American version of the French film Three Men and a Cradle which is also wonderful and I highly recommend that too, in that movie the guys are named Jacques, Pierre, and Michel, the baby is named Marie and the mother is named Sylvia, I saw that film both in French with English subtitles and Dubbed into English but I preferred it in it's original French with the English subtitles.

Three Men, a Baby and a Cardboard Cutout.
This isn't really my kind of movie, but it isn't bad for what it is - a light comedy. I watched the movie mainly because of the "ghost" controversy. The "ghost boy" and the "shotgun" are actually the same thing seen from different camera angles: the cardboard cutout figure of Ted Danson in a tuxedo. The cutout cardboard figure is shown later in the movie when Ted Danson is talking to the baby's mother in the same bedroom where the "ghost" appeared (note on the cardboard figure the contour of the line where the left side of the black tuxedo meets the white vest). I believe the cutout figure was moved from the window on the right where it was in the earlier scene so it could be shown with Ted Danson for dramatic effect. The light-hearted, show biz bachelor in tuxedo and top hat works nicely as an ironic contrast to Ted's real-life character agonizing over parental responsibility and the possible loss of his baby.

The controversial "ghost" scene opened with Ted's mom entering the apartment. The camera for this scene, located in Ted's bedroom follows Ted and his mother as they walk through the apartment and into the bedroom. They walk right in front of the camera as they enter through the bedroom door and the camera pans to the right as they approach the baby crib. This is when we see the "shotgun" which is actually the left side of the cardboard figure (the right edge line of the "shotgun" is identical to the line on the cardboard figure where the bunched up vest meets the left side of the tuxedo). The rest of the figure is hidden behind the curtain at this camera angle. When Ted and his mother approach the crib the camera man moves to the left towards the window side of the room (watch the background behind Ted's mother). When Ted and his mother, with baby, leave the bedroom the camera man is now in position to precede them out through the bedroom door. This is when we see the "ghost". In the begining of the scene the camera man was at the side of the door away from the windows. So, as he exits backwards through the door and closer to the windows the cardboard figure is seen at a more acute angle exposing more of the tuxedo figure behind the curtain. The sides of the cardboard figure are hidden by the curtains, but the triangular shape of the neck/shirt and the vertical right coat/vest line can be seen. Also, the white tie of the tuxedo cutout, although obscure, can also be identified. The "boy's" face looks fuller to some viewers because they see the top hat without the hidden brim as the "boy's" hair-covered head. The triangular white shape at the waist line is the bottom of one side of the white vest on the tuxedo figure.

Great Family Friendly Movie
Ah, the Eighties. The soundtrack of this movie alone brings a nostalgic tear to my eye. Okay, this movie didn't blow us away with its depiction of bachelorhood, but it did make me laugh, and what more can a person really want in a movie? Steve Guttenberg, Tom Selleck, and Ted Danson are the Three Muskateers Plus Baby. By the way, when compared to its sequel, Three Men and a Little Lady, this movie DOES look like a masterpiece. Good movie -- one you can certainly enjoy with your own little ones, and Grandma and Grandpa.

Fine Entertainment!!
This older film, dating back to 1987, was a sleeper hit and a real favorite when it came out. The cast of Tom Selleck, Steve Gutenberg,and Ted Danson was just fine, and the story line was terrific. Here we see three "professional men" having to deal with the realities of life- a baby- and the predicaments they have to deal with are realistic and not patronizing at all. Then to discover that Danson is the real "Daddy" brings an even greater element to the film.

I believe that this had to be one of Selleck's best movies, and the ensemble cast is excellent. A fine family film, and to watch and listen to the trio sing "Goodnight Sweetheart" is worth the price of the movie.

A baby lover's must
In 1987,when Tom Selleck and Ted Danson were on annual hiatus from their respective television shows,Magnum P.I. and Cheers,they filmed with Steve Guttenberg,this lovely comedy about sudden,reluctant babysitting. Just the previous year,Guttenberg filmed "Police Academy 4:Citizens On Patrol",his last sequel. BAD BOY,performed by Gloria Estefan & the Miami Sound Machine,is played during the opening credits. The babysitting starts one Sunday morning when Peter Mitchell(Selleck) returns from a jog to his apartment and finds a baby in a bassinet on the floor near the door. He calls his roommate Michael Kellam(Guttenberg),so he could take a look at the beautiful baby girl. Near her is a note from her mother written to the baby's father Jack Holden(Danson). Jack lives with Peter and Michael. Peter goes to the supermarket in his workout apparel to buy some baby food and diapers since the trio had none of their own. So Michael entertains Mary,the baby. After Jack,who's an actor,returns home from Turkey after filming a TV movie,he is strangled by Peter and Michael,mistaking him for a burglar. They are pissed at him for putting them through hell with the baby. Peter tells Jack,"We(himself and Michael) put our lives on hold taking care of this kid and now it's your turn." In another scene where Peter and Michael are shooting pool,Jack is having difficulty changing Mary's diaper("How do you put on these goddamn things anyway?")."Figure it out for yourself,d---head!",Peter answers. Things get back to normal when Mary's mother Sylvia(Nancy Travis) shows up at the trio's apartment to reclaim Mary. Sylvia planned to catch a flight to London,taking Mary with her. That didn't happen,realizing Sylvia would have been sorry eventually. So she returns to the trio's apartment. The trio themselves return to the apartment after they rode a cab to the airport from where Sylvia and Mary were gonna take off. The trio thought Sylvia and Mary had. Sylvia,who's an actress,complains to the trio that her hectic work schedule makes her not care enough for Mary. Peter,who's an architect,told Sylvia that he'd build one or two rooms for Sylvia and Mary,inviting them to the household. Jack told Peter and Michael in an earlier scene that Jack and Sylvia met while acting in a play. In the last scene,Peter,Jack,Sylvia and Michael are all pushing Mary in her stroller,with a long handlebar,accomodating four pairs of hands! This movie was released November 25,1987 and became a #1 blockbuster and remained in many theatres for 4 or 5 months. The success of this film spawned a sequel 3 years later entitled "Three Men and a Little Lady". ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's tinsel and holly and "fa la la lolly" when Eloise lends her unique brand of holiday spirit to this made-for-television movie inspired by Kay Thompson's book of the same name. Sofia Vassilieva shines as ruckus-raising Eloise, who can simultaneously exasperate and exhilarate the genteel staff of New York's Plaza hotel. In the days before Christmas, Eloise learns that Rachel (Sara Topham), the daughter of Plaza owner Mr. Peabody, is returning after a long absence to marry mystery man Brooks Oliver. Eloise insists on helping with the Yuletide nuptials while plotting a matchmaking scheme of her own--to find true love for her best pal Bill (Gavin Creel), a free-spirited hotel waiter. Meanwhile, Eloise keeps busy sprinkling holiday mirth on everyone, including her beloved Nanny, played "rawther" marvelously by Julie Andrews. Whereas Eloise at the Plaza portrays the precocious 6-year-old as mostly mischievous, this film showcases her compassionate side which, together with the strong ensemble cast, offers plenty of Christmas cheer. Watch for the sizzling chemistry and musical talents of Topham and Creel. (Ages 5 and older) --Lynn Gibson ... Read more

Reviews (118)

Odd with the muppets, but the best by far!
Sure, the muppets mixed in with a Christmas classic it does sound sort of strange, but it works out beautifully! While this story is warped into too many emotionally sterile versions(like Scrooge, in the seventies or so, Mrs. Cratchet wasn't even mourning Tiny Tim! Albert Finney Could NOT act and the music, most of it, was terrible!)this one really focuses on the humanity of the story and characters. Human emotions were finally shown! Michael Caine was excellent as Scrooge. The love between him and Belle was really believable(when he joins her at the end of her song, you can tell he has repeated her parting words ever since; he MUST have loved her!). Emily Cratchet was finally mourning her son(THATS what a real mother would do!), and Bob Cratchet's speech about being parted from a loved one is a fact of life is one of the most touching moments. The score to the movie, why didn't they make a soundtrack?! They each tie into their scenes so well that if they were removed, it would just be missing something; When love is gone is one of the saddest, most beautiful love ballads ever heard and its sequence is equally heartbreaking; no wonder Scrooge (and Rizzo)was crying when Belle left, he must have loved Belle very much and seeing it happen again...it would break the hardest heart, it did with me, and I'm 17 and hardened through and through, although I do care about others! I just can't go past that scene; its too much! This movie is just SO touching! I highly recommend it!

Ridiculously accurate!
At first, its easy to be skeptical of the idea of this classic of literature being portrayed by a frog, a pig, and their assorted friends. Believe it or not, however, this is probably the most touching rendition of "A Christmas Carol" I have ever seen! Although the Muppets present things in a light and sometimes downright silly way, the characters are so incredibly likeable that I really "got" the point of the story from watching this version.

The video features sarcastic humor and visual jokes and will make you laugh from beginning to end. At the same time, you can't help but care for all the characters, and you really are concerned for Tiny Tim and his family, almost forgetting that they are frogs and pigs. The video transitions neatly back and forth from humor to sensitivity. Although obviously this video is not completely accurate to the details of Dickens's version of the story, the spirit that he was trying to convey is definately present. Aside from the adorable plot, the music in this movie is wonderful! The songs are touching and memorable, and the fact that they are sang by rats and vegetables is just an added bonus. "It feels like Christmas" is absolutely adorable!

Don't think this video is just for kids either! Even my father couldn't help but chuckle at the dry humor of Gonzo in his role as Charles Dickens. This is a video that the family can watch and rewatch together, and should become a part of anyone's Christmas tradition.

I love this dvd!
My kids and I both adore this video. Around the end of November it suddenly begins to enter into our movie rotation, and we watch it a lot of times when its no where near Christmas times! And I can stand that! This movie is adorable, and a good way to expose kids to Dicken's legend.

I highly reccomend this!

Despite DVD flaws, still a great movie!
This is probably the best of the Muppet Movies. It was a time right after Muppet creator, Jim Henson had passed, and everyone was determined to keep the Muppets alive. This determination shows in every performance. No one settled for less than perfection. The result, a WONDERFUL movie.

Unlike "Muppet Treasure Island," which was heavily altered from the original novel, "Muppet Christmas Carol" remains faithful to Dickens' classic. Very few liberties were taken (the most noticable is Jacob Marley has become Jacob AND ROBERT Marley, roles perfectly suited for Stater and Waldorf--the "balcony guys"). Other than that, much of the prose and dialog from the original novel is intact.

Granted, the DVD version is not the original widescreen version, but manufacturing flaws aside, it is still a GREAT movie.

I can't believe it
I really can't believe it. I've waited for so long for this DVD and now I know that it is a "edited version" of the original film. WHAT? I should buy a cutted version of the movie? Are you crazy? Selling this, Walt Disney is fooling us all. It's like to buy a "Mona Lisa" by Leonardo da Vinci with just the face and without the body, the hands and the mountains. I wonder what you guys had in mind. One of the most beautiful film ruined by someone without brain. They' ve even cut some scenes!!! I'm sorry for Amazon, but I hope nobody will buy this dvd until the Disney band will reflect on their deeds and their sins. And this is even a special edition, yeah, a special trick. And someone still wonder why people keep downloading the films in internet... ... Read more

Amazon.com

Before man ventured into space, Walt Disney took the nation there. This set of the Walt Disney Treasures consists of "Science Factual" shows that aired mostly in the 1950s. On the first disc, Ward Kimball, one of the company's ace animators, directs three 50-minute segments on space travel dealing with space flight, going to the moon, and going to Mars. A combination of lecture (by the tops in the field, including lead rocket designer Dr. Werner von Braun), animation, live-action segments, and models, the three segments are still relevant as they effortlessly teach such elements as why rockets are in stages, what is gravitational force, orbiting, air pressure, and even the psychological effects on the mind. It is impressive how easily these Tomorrowland features entertain audiences of all ages. Of course, some of the details are wrong, but the wonder is not, and the final segment--a most poetic survey about what life might be like on Mars--illustrates Disney animated magic at its best.

The second disc takes on weather reporting (including a James Bond-ish way of changing the weather), how satellites work, and the touchstone 1958 short "Our Friend the Atom," a staple of explaining the world of atomic energy. Shown for the first time in its entirety is an informative pitch for EPCOT. It's not a version of the theme park now in Florida, but Walt Disney's lyrical vision of a city of the future, a dream never realized with his death two months after filming in 1966. Leonard Maltin introduces each segment, putting it in historical context and noting some political incorrectness and oversights, like atomic energy having no downside. The programs still entertainingly show the promises of the future: humans on Mars seem so tangible, even though the space program lost its way in the forthcoming decades. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Classic Futuristic Television
Although this appears to be a less popular release than the other 2003 Disney Treasures, the contents are very special. The programs are entertaining, educational, and important in a historical context. As listed in various websites, the contents are scheduled to be the following (first release date/TV showing listed after each title): Man In Space (3/9/55), Man and the Moon (12/28/55), Mars and Beyond (12/4/57), Our Friend The Atom (1/23/57), Eyes In Outer Space (6/18/59), and EPCOT (filmed late 1966, first shown 1967).

The first three are TV shows exploring different ideas on how space travel could and would be accomplished. Each show combined entertainment with scientific facts known at that time. President Eisenhower arranged to show a screening of Man In Space at the Pentagon and later credited the show with helping to further the progress of the American Space Program. Mars and Beyond has a funny scene in which Donald Duck is shown among a long line of Martian monsters.

Our Friend The Atom explores the early potential of atomic energy - the benefits and dangers. There is a fun animated tale of "The Fisherman and the Genie" included as part of the history of the atom.

Eyes In Outer Space was released to the theaters and explored satellites' future ability to forecast and control weather. Later shown as part of the later 4/1/62 TV show Spy in the Sky.

EPCOT was the last film Walt Disney appeared in, in which he explains the company's plans for Walt Disney World and EPCOT.

I have seen all these TV shows and films and have loved them throughout the years. I look forward to owning DVD quality copies of these.

Lost Treasures - Found
Disney completists, 1950s cultural collectors, animation fans, history buffs and sci/fi fans will be overjoyed with this set. I had never seen any of the material contained in this set before and now I can't keep these films out of my mind. I was amazed that Walt Disney had the guts to tackle these subjects in such a serious manner. Yet they aren't presented as fluff nor as a boring PBS documentary but some marvelous combination of the two. I've heard people tell of how they had seen these films in school as a supplement to their science educations. Now I can see why. You learn hard facts about the subjects of space travel, atoms, and rockets in an entertaining and unforgettable way. I think the Discovery Channel could learn a thing or two from these films.

The bulk of these films are live action, but the animation that is included is stunning in that it is so different looking from what we normally consider Disney. Animation fans will be pouring over these segments in awe. And as proof of Walt's forethought we are able to enjoy these shows in full technicolor.

Included as a bonus are two interviews. One with Ray Bradbury and the other with Marty Sklar. I can't overstate how excellent these interviews are. They both knew Walt personally and their accounts of working with him and his personality are priceless. As much as I loved the main features, I'm sure to be watching these interviews again and again.

Parents can easily allow their children to watch this set and they're sure to learn a thing or two. For the whole family, Tomorrowland is a triumph of ideas, entertainment and imagination.

Nostalgic, Fun & a Little Disturbing
I saw all these shows except "Eyes In Outer Space" & the EPCOT promotional film, when they were originally broadcast, when I was very young, and they began my education in science and astronomy. Seeing them again 50 years later is a blast. First off, they look GREAT! They are immensely interesting and very entertaining. The stuff they predict correctly is amazing. The first show basically lays out what became the space shuttle program very accurately. In "Mars & Beyond" it apparently didn't occur to them that we would send unmanned probes before sending men. They don't get the first moon trip right. No ships were built in space, and we went to the moon before building any space stations, and to go all the way to the moon and just come back after ONE orbit would have been idiotic. Needless to say, our first trip to the moon involved orbiting for a while. Of course, on the second trip, we landed.
But there's disturbing aspects to these shows also. First off, most of the scientists whom Walt has explain rocketry to us are NAZIS, like Werner Von Braun. They mention his developing of rockets, but omit that he did it for Hitler to use murdering people in England!. When a German scientist, in "Our Friend The Atom" asks what three wishes we should ask of atomic energy, and then says, "Our first wish is for POWER!" I was completely creeped out. We're supposed to just forget that these men had no compunctions about letting Hitler use their genius for mass murder. These guys weren't Mousekateers. They were war criminals who we took for our space programs. They apparently didn't care who they built weapons for. That's what we call whores. It was just ten years after World War II, and Disney was bringing these Nazis into our living rooms to teach our kids. Ew!
Speaking of "Our Friend The Atom", it's a huge commercial for atomic energy, designed to make us baby boomers all want a nuclear power plant in OUR neighborhoods. The atom isn't our friend! They imply that atomic energy COULD have been dangerous, but fortunately, we've tamed it and it hasn't been used to kill and is now not dangerous. Excuse me! Hiroshima and Nagasaki were already history. "Our Friend The Atom" was all about sending us on the inevitable path to Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. Very creepy.
Several of the historical segments make note of the 1000 year gap in scientific development, the Dark Ages, and let us know that this was a bad time of superstition and ignorance, but it never mentions how the Catholic Church deliberately created the Dark Ages, by ruthlessly repressing all learning, and burning you at the stake if you dared to think for yourself. Copernicus and Galilao's discoveries are cited several times, but no mention is made of their being forced to recant by the Vatican, or of any of Catholicism's other crimes against learning and science.
Similarly, "Eyes In Outer Space" suggests that satilites would just be used for weather control. Any more sinister uses, like spying or weaponry, are never even hinted at.
I am amused by the reviewers who think it's a shame that Walt's ideas for EPCOT were never realized, and who wish they could live in Walt's supercity. Actually live in a city owned and RULED by Disney? No thanks.
But this set of programs are fascinating artifacts from my youth. I enjoyed them tremendously.

Some of the Greatest Animation Ever Created, etc.
To say the least, this collection features some of the greatest animation ever produced for television, if not ever. Mind blowing, wildly inventive, and overwhelming. Ward Kimball, I would argue (with this set as evidence), was Disney's greatest animator, and, when you consider the starchy conservative reputation Disney had during the mid-50s, it's astonishing to consider how willing and trusting he was to both hand over creative control to Kimball, and to present this profoundly innovative and often extremely abstract animation to the common public. It goes a long way toward the potential for discussing Disney as being far more complex than the overly reductive dismissal of him as reactionary moralist in the cultural realm. In addition, this set encapsulates the bright-eyed utopianism of the era better than any other pop culture artifact, the mood and representation of which clearly informed Kubrick's 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY (it also sheds light on the somewhat disturbing Germanic influence on the technology of the space age).

Immeasurably entertaining
Well, I came along too late to have seen these programs on t.v. in the fifties. But I can't imagine I would have enjoyed them anymore than I did today! I don't think it's an exaggeration to say the "Tomorrowland" programs may be the BEST documentaries I have ever seen. Who else but Walt Disney (teaming up with space exploration pioneers like Willie Ley and Warner Von Braun) could make a series like this that ANYONE can enjoy, even 50 years after their release?

Yes, some of the speculative material therein has been proven wrong over the years. That's part of their charm...the people who made these things seem certain that their ideas would become reality. And speaking of charm, anyone with even a passing interest in the history of animation simply MUST have this set. I don't think any other Disney production looks quite like this. The episode on Mars in particular contains some of the most bizarre images, animated or otherwise, to ever appear on screen.

I would highly recommend this to anyone (1)like I said, with an interest in animation; (2)interested in the history of astronomy; (3)who likes 50's science-fiction or science-fact. And of course, anyone who likes classic Disney should have bought this one already.

If I had the money I'd buy it FOR you. But I don't...so do yourself a favor and get this one before it's gone. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

There is which character is David Niven?
This is one of those cute films that are safe for kids. It has the Disney signature all over it.
Casey Brown (Jodie Foster) is recruited and in cahoots with a con man and his wife. The wife used to work for the family of a castle and can teach Casey how to fool her way in as a long lost relative. Once inside she is to find the alleged treasure of a pirate captain. In the process of searching she is forced to cooperate with the family which is trying to scrape up enough money to save the castle. She appears to be softening up. Where will her loyalties lie? Is there really treasure or is it just a story? And why is the butler never seen with the gardener?

Excellent family fun
David Niven gives it his all as a butler trying to protect his Mistress played superbly by Helen Hayes from the harsh realities of the present. He takes on various guises of people long dead so that Hayes can pretend her life in the crumbling English mansion Candleshoe has not changed in forty years. A youthful Jodie Foster is a street-wise young con artist who agrees to impersonate Hayes long-lost granddaughter in order to make a fast buck. What follows is a barrel of laughs as Jodie, an assortment of orphan children, Niven, Hayes and a band of hilariously inept baddies, one of whom is the fabulous Leo McKern, find themselves on the hunt for a lost English treasure. A treasure that Niven wants to find so that his Mistress will not have to leave Candleshoe which is about to fall into the hands of debtors. Slowly Jodie finds herself at odds with the task she has been paid to do, and she changes sides, helping Niven and the children save Candleshoe for the old woman she has grown to love. Disney has created a cast of colorful characters that have you laughing and crying in the same breath and Jodie Foster is brilliant as the cynical young American girl who just might be the real heir to Candleshoe. Delightful, and wonderfully harmless fun. Well worth buying just for the innocent it exudes from every single frame.

Candleshoe
An interesting mystery where a couple hires a young woman to poise as the missing hierest to a estate fortune to get the money for them. Only she come to care for the family who thinks she's a member of and decide to do the right thing and get the treasure to save the estate from going under. A heart warming disney classic with comic hi-jinx.

a GEM
I first saw the film twelve years ago as a child and since then 40 times. I love it. It's a perfect family film without any violance and with pretty good actors.
I must admit, that Jodie Foster now is not one of my favorite actresses but in this film (and in the Freaky Friday of course) she is perfect for the role as well certainly Helen Hayes, David Niven and Leo McKern.

Interesting plot, humour, no blood, sensational actors: do you need more?!

One of My All-Time Disney Favorites...
... and trust me, I am not a Disney groupie.

From a 1970's kids'-eye view, this movie has it all:

• Sassy and savvy lead character Casey Brown (Jodie Foster) is the kind of brash, street-smart survivor every kid imagines he would be if left to his own devices.
• The majority of the action takes place on a huge English estate, in a decrepit castle. Secrets abound!
• There is the thrilling hope of finding a pirate treasure.
• Clues to the treasure are revealed and solved one by one, allowing the viewer to actually feel a part of the search.
• David Niven is delightfully funny, playing four different characters, and leaving the viewer wondering just who he will become next.
• Although tame by today's standards, there is tension, and suspense... Can Priory (Niven) change clothes fast enough to continue his charade? Will the con-men be successful? Can Candleshoe survive its financial woes? Is Casey really Lady St. Edmund's (Helen Hayes) long-lost granddaughter? Will there be betrayal?
• The finale features a hilariously satisfying kids-triumph-against-bad-guy-adults melee.

It may not be the '70s anymore, and I am certainly no longer a kid, but I still love this movie. Given the chance, I think kids of today will love it as well. ... Read more

Description

Sam is no ordinary dog. He is the son of Yeller, the four-legged hero who won your heart in Walt Disney's classic adventure, OLD YELLER. With his two young masters Travis and Arliss Coates (Tommy Kirk, Kevin Corcoran), gentle Sam faces even greater dangers than Yeller did. From the ferocious attacks of wolves and wildcats to the hostile actions of renegade Indians, Savage Sam presents a heartwarming story of love, devotion, and trust set in the sprawling pioneering days of the untamed West. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great Little Secret Found!!!!
I first caught this movie on the television and had no idea there was a sequel to Old Yeller. Although I haven't yet figured out how he turned out to be a blue tick coonhound, it is a wonderful movie. Seeing the boys from Old Yeller back at it and into things is wonderful. I couldn't wait to add it to my collection and was tickled that it was already on DVD when I looked for it. We need more movies like this! It is full of adventure and if you own coonhounds, it does them justice. I hate to say much about the movie because you need to watch it and I hate to know the ending or too much about one when I get one, but the saying boys will be boys is true for Arlis. There is nothing like the love of a child and his dog!!

Interesting Kirk/Corcoran vehicle
Disney cast Tommy Kirk and Kevin Corcoran as brothers 3 times, the younger Kevin tough, spunky, and "masculine," the older Tommy shy, sensitive, "feminine"...Here they are teenagers living alone in the Old West, visited from time to time by next-ranch neighbor Marta Kristen, who can't seem to remember that she's in a Disney movie, and stares at Tommy as if she's a moment away from ripping his clothes off.

All three are abducted by Indians, who intend to make Tommy a slave, Kevin a brave, and Marta a squaw (they leave Tommy and Marta pretty much alone, but their voracious manhandling of little Kevin would certainly be censored today) When Tommy is accidentally left behind, he teams up with the dog, Savage Sam, to rescue the others (although the fragile little thing loses consciousness at the drop of a hat). Eventually a posse of white men joins them, and they shoot the Indians and go home.

Aside from the anti-Indian prejudice, "Savage Sam" is superior...in plotting, characterization, and suspense. I loved Uncle Bill. . .um, I mean Uncle Beck (Brian Keith) strutting around in his flamboyant pink shirt as if daring us to draw conclusions about his character...

Fine, no frills presentation
Disney's "Savage Sam" is an entertaining and authentically staged presentation of the Fred Gipson story. It's presented in square-screen format, but since Disney films of this type were produced with eventual TV airings in mind, the cropping of the image is minimal and no action is lost. The quality of the image is good. It's not a "Vault Disney" piece like the other Gipson story, "Old Yeller," but it's worth having even without bells and whistles.

One thing that didn't age as well as the rest of the film is the title song. Really hokey. But after that's over, the story is told in a no-nonsense style. It dramatizes something Texas settlers contended with for four decades: the abduction of children in an Indian raid.

As befits a family film, "Savage Sam" soft-pedals the realities of such raids. Tommy Kirk's character, a teenage boy, would have been treated more harshly. Torture on the trail and a horrendous death upon arrival at the tribe's base camp would have been his fate. The teenage girl would have been raped right off. But Kevin Corcoran's character, a young child, would have been taken for adoption, just as the film shows, and the Indians' good-humored toleration of his combativeness is right in line with that.

All in all, a serious depiction of a slice of history that few Americans learn about in school anymore.

Glad to hear this movie is on dvd
I was excited when I heard that this movie would be released on DVD. It is another great dog movie by Disney and stars Tommy Kirk and Brian Keith with Sam(who looks like a bluetick coonhound). I would like to know about the picture quality of this dvd before I buy it. If anyone has seen this dvd, please let me know if it is worth buying.

Great Old Movie
One of the best old movies out there. I cant wait for it to come out on DVD. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Disney sets a record for bringing out a direct-to-video sequel after the initial film. Stitch: The Movie arrives only a year after the enjoyable Lilo & Stitch played theaters and reunites the title character (otherwise known as Experiment 626) with his earth-bound family in the warm Hawaiian sun. The story has a nice set-up: since Stitch is Experiment 626, where are the first 625 invented by Dr. Jumba Jookiba? Odds are the island paradise will soon be spaceport central for many more aliens. As with other made-for-video Disney titles, the animation is not as complex or rich. This hurts this sequel even more since the original film had such a unique, pastel beauty. Unfortunately, the other elements of the film are just as flat. Even though most of the original voice cast returns, the entire production lacks the same spirit and charm, and the story's theme is recycled (get ready for more "Ohana means family"). On the plus side, the film starts with an Elvis Presley song ("Slicin' Sand") and is only 64 minutes long. The movie sets up the Disney TV series The Adventures of Lilo & Stitch. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Amazon.com

In the moody prologue, amid a raging storm that evokes Hollywood golden-age high-seas swashbucklers, a foreboding scroll recounts the legend of one of the bloodiest pirates in the history of the Caribbean. Leave it to Disney to turn him into a fun-loving old prankster with a whimsical side. Peter Ustinov mugs shamelessly as the bombastic but harmless apparition who renounces his wicked ways to become the mischievous school spirit of the local college, much to the annoyance of straight-arrow track coach Dean Jones. Made in the heyday of Disney’s live-action family comedies, Blackbeard's Ghost is all haphazard but high-energy slapstick and squeaky-clean romance (courtesy of contemporary schoolmarm Suzanne Pleshette) performed with more gumption than grace, but there’s a nostalgic innocence to the whole overplayed affair. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (28)

IT'S ABOUT TIME!
I'm so glad that Disney finally came to their senses and decided to release this treasure on DVD. In my opinion, this is one of Disney's best. Starring Peter Ustinov, Dean Jones, and Suzanne Pleshette, this movie has comedy, action, and no worry of bad language or sex. Dean Jones plays a track coach who arrives in a new town, one with many tales and mysteries. Jones arrives at a hotel owned by families of pirates who roamed the area hundreds of years ago. The families are giving an auction to save their beloved, historical home from money-grubbing gamblers who tend to turn the hotel into a casino. When Jones suddenly finds himself bidding on an auction in competition with the football coach, he unwillingly wins a bed-warmer with a story, suposedly coming from Blackbeard the pirate. He soon discovers that he got much more than he bargained for! This wholesome comedy will keep a smile on your face all the way through, Disney fan or not!

Blackbeard's Ghost Should Have Stayed Away
While not a great moment in movie history, Blackbeard's Ghost is a fun film for families and stars the always-great Peter Ustinov. I had been looking forward to it's release on DVD as the print I had on VHS was so terrible, I felt surely that the DVD would offer a better print (and based on the quality of the prints on the recently-released Vault Disney titles I had purchased, I felt even more assured that it would). I was sooooo disappointed today when I received my copy of Blackbeard's Ghost. Of all of the DVDs I have purchased from a name studio, this has to be the worst I have ever seen. The print used seems to be the same as the one used for the old VHS I have. The picture contrast is terrible. The print itself is full of scratches and blemishes and the picture is very grainy. Worst of all it is presented in full screen (I seem to remember reading it would be widescreen when it was first announced), which leaves parts of the picture lopped off. An example of this is when Dean Jones' character is talking to a student while driving and the right half of Jones' face is missing while the left half of the student's is gone. The biggest example of the low quality of the print used is the opening titles. Since the film was not presented in widescreen (although it wouldn't have been too wide, I'm sure), the opening credits are "squished" up, with the picture being presented slightly off-center, leaving about a 1 1/2 inch black space up the left side of my screen. I know this film is not considered a classic by most, but I was hoping Disney would have thought it was and done better than this. Maybe some day they will.

Cute movie, Bad DVD
I enjoyed the movie. Ustinov was soo funny he made the movie for me. Of course the movie is pretty inane, but I knew that before I bought it. What I didn't know is that the DVD quality is the worst I have ever seen. The sound also had scratches and pops. The picture is faded and streaked. I like these kinds of movies, but I now look to the reviews before I buy Disney movies. For the cost I think they could restore them (and in general make them widescreen).

Pirates are cool!
I don't know why, but this movie never ceases to amuse me. The goofy pirate combined with 1960's Disney humor and Dean Jones just makes this movie so entertaining that you'll watch it over and over again. If you like classic Disney movies as much as I do, you definately need to add this one to your collection.

Video quality? Expected better...
This of course is an excellent movie - Ustinov is excellent as well as Dean.

However, I honestly expected better quality video from a re-released classic movie from Disney. The opening credits are truncated on the left side - it almost appeared that the opening credis were done with a hand-held video camera (someone with the wiggles of course). Tons of video artifacts exist throughout the movie (white dust, contrast problems, scratches, blooming, and washed out color etc.). It doesn't seem to have been given the "Snow White" treatment that other released products have gone through. ... Read more

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Ethan Hawke, fresh faced and full of determination, tackles the icy wilds and rowdy boom towns of Alaska in Disney's 1991 adaptation of Jack London's turn-of-the-century gold rush classic. Though somewhat tamed for young audiences, the story of a city kid who befriends a feral half-wolf/half-dog orphan while learning to survive the dangers of nature and man has its share of peril and rousing scenes of wilderness adventure. But the humans are upstaged by both the animals (the standoff between White Fang and a wild brown bear is a highlight) and the Alaskan landscape, from the snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes of winter to the rich green forests and whitecap rivers of summer. The scenes of dogfights and wild wolves hunting game are carefully shot to avoid bloodshed (the opening disclaimer takes pains to remind viewers that all such scenes have been simulated), but they may still be too intense for young children. Recommended for 9 and up. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Incredible movie
Lush panoramic visuals, a great story, compelling acting (by humans and animals alike) and an absolutely superb musical score add up to one of Disney's finest live-action movies ever. I love the sweeping shots of the Alaskan and Yukon landscapes and the wildlife photography is terrific. A young Ethan Hawke was a first-rate choice for this film and he is complemented fantastically by Klaus Maria Brandauer. It's unbelievable to me that this DVD is in a full-frame pan and scan format, which cost it a full star in my rating. With the quality of this film's cinematography, the DVD deserves to have the best digital transfer and widescreen treatment. I also wish there was a soundtrack available, as the score is one of my all-time favorites, but that's a whole other subject!

I just love this movie
To me, this movie warms my heart. It offers a lot of things about human being. If you like movies about friendship, life, adventure. I think this one will not fail you. Btw if you don't like dogs, get Tom and Jerry.

A must see movie!!!
This is an absolutely incredible story that touches your soul and warms your heart. The development of the relationship between a younger and an older man, compliments and mirrors in many ways the development of the relationship between the young man and the wolf/dog. Compassion, trust, love, pain...all of these abound in this movie. In addition to the touching story is the awesome Alaskan landcape and sceenery. We own this movie and have watched it many times, yet we never tire of it's honesty. A highly recommended movie...You won't be dissapointed!!!

Heartwarming Movie
I think this is the movie that makes my heart warm up. This movie touches my heart in ways no other movie has. I think this is one of Disney's best works though the sequel was kind of bad. I highly recommend this movie to everyone.

An all-time personal favorite still not properly presented
Disney's White Fang is one of my all-time favorite films. Many don't see it as much of a cut above the average, but few films are as touching or as beautiful to me as this one is. A heart-warming story with good performances and photography that captures all the epic majesty of the Alaskan landscape.

So why does it only get three stars? Well, that's Disney's fault for releasing it only in full-frame format. A film of such awe-inspiring scenery and photographic grandure deserves to be seen in it's original widescreen aspect ratio. And if they can release the inferior and ridiculously useless sequel in anamorphic widescreen, one can only wonder why they wouldn't give this film the same treatment. I realize that sometimes pan-and-scan prints are the only ones available, but this film is not that old, and in any case the German DVD (the title over there is "Wolfsblut") was released in widescreen with an English audio track, so Disney must have a widescreen print in their possession.

Special features could have saved this release another star, but there's nothing here except a Spanish audio track. And with no extra content, Disney could have easily fit both widescreen and fullscreen versions on one disc.

To those who either don't have a widescreen preference or don't like this film enough to care, the subject of this rant will seem a minor quibble. If that is the case, then by all means rent (or buy) this film, as I still fully endorse it on its own merits. But for my own part I won't be touching this one until Disney wakes up and puts out a widescreen reissue. ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Worthy Enough To Be The Sequel To Such A Great Film!
This movie was wonderful. Kid's will love it! Cruella Devil is finally being released from prison. They have experimented on her and assume that she is cured from her dog hatting days. In fact, they have turned her into a dog lover. She even goes out and buys an abandoned dog shelter. Her peroll officer, whos dog's have just had a litter of dalmation puppies including oddball who has no spots, Meets the owner of the shelter and falls in love with him. But when Cruella hears the bells of Big Ben, something goes wrong inside her head and she goes out to get revenge. This time she wants a hooded spotted dalmation puppy coat, hence it will take 102 dalmations to complete it. The only dalmation that isn't captured is Oddball because she has no spots. It's up to her and her parrot friend who thinks he's a dog to follow the kidnappers to France and save the day! Your whole family will love it! Buy it today!

First 101 dalmations now 102 dalmations,,,wonderful!
I recived this one as a Xmas present *Dec01*, I watched it before I got it, cos we rented it... and I loved it, and i will always love this movie. It's such a cute movie! My favorite dog is "Oddball" my worst character is Cruella De Vil. As u can tell why! Cruella De Vil, Cruella De Vil.. if she doesnt scare u no evil thing will! I've seen the cartoon version of 101 Dalmations... and I love the cartoon more than the real version on 101 Dalmations. But 102 Dalmations is much better. I also have 101 Dalmations *Not the cartoon version*, and that one is not as good as 102 Dalmations.. (Believe Me))))) Well anyways please do yourself a favor and buy "102 Dalmations" today.

Cute puppies. 16th april 2004.
I have never really seen the first propally, but i could imagine the second been that bit better. Great for anyone, really cute doggies, and ther are 102 of them on a adventure near to the end.

This is a horible movie
I thought it would be a delightful flick with cute pupies running away from a nasty lady but it's not that way. old tired jokes get used agan agan and agan. BOTTOM LINE: it stinks

A puppy's day
An evil Cruela Devil does the same plan like in the original movie. This movie sounds the same like the original. They repeated everything including the plot, the story and made different characters take care of the dogs. It should be the same people like in the first 101 Dalmatians. Disney made a really bad look out type of movie. This movie should be called 102 Dalmatians Cruela Devil Returns. An extra this movie should be Rated R for evil violence, overacted, and disaster images that are usually garbaged. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

wonderful buddy.
I saw the first movie of air bud and thought that it was pretty good the way a dog could play a sport and was really good at it, especially basketball. Then the second one came out with Buddy playing football, which i thought was also neat. But now we have Buddy playing soccer. Personally, i like a little romance in some movies and this had a little bit. Josh and buddy, falls in love with Emma and her golden retriever. The music wasn't so bad on the movie either, but i can't seem to find any soundtrack to air bud at all. I hope they come out with one though.

Not the greatest movie I've ever seen...
The first Air Bud was one of the greatest movies I've ever seen. The story was great, and the movie was both funny and touching.

The second? Umm... not so great.

The third? Not good. It looks like it was just made to continue the story, which in this movie is somewhat absent. The point of the first movie was that a lonely boy is befriended by a dog - excellent story. Third movie: the boy falls in love. Not a good story. Skip this one, is my advice.

Simple but entertaining
Josh develops a crush on the new girl in town, who happens to be an expert soccer player. She attends his high school, and is part of the first soccer team at that high school. The soccer team ends up being two players short. So, of course, Josh joins up. That makes them one player short. Guess who signs up next?

As far as wholesome, simplistic, light as cotton candy family entertainment goes, this is top notch. My only real complaint is that dog catchers were involved in the film, and hasn't someone in Hollywood realized yet that the evil dog catcher is a thing of the past? It's completely unnecessary in today's scripts.

Anyway, Buddy himself falls in love, with none other than the dog that belongs to Josh's new love interest. They have puppies, and for some inexplicable reason the dog catchers want to steal the puppies. Well, that's OK, because the puppies are adorable (even if they're of different sizes throughout the film - larger when they should be smaller, smaller when they should be larger). We see them as puppies just out of the womb, and is there much in life cuter than a newborn puppy?

Charming But Not Serious
The original Air Bud dealt with a lot of serious issues. Josh had lost his dad, he moved to a new town and had no friends, he had to confront Buddy's original owner, and he had to chose losing Buddy to protect Buddy. World Pup is so devoid of serious moments that one wonders at some of the characters.

Both Buddy and Josh find love interests in this movie. Things start with Josh's mother remarrying. Josh joins the soccer team in order to be closer to, and possibly make points with, a girl he is attracted to.

Two shady characters are out to get Buddy and Buddy's love interest (and later, their puppies of which there are six and not four like pictured on the cover).

There are plenty of good dog moments and the lack of seriousness means parents will not be tempted to skip over any scenes. But there are two things that don't make sense.

Who are the bad guys, what are they really up to, and how can they make any money at it if it takes them many months just to get at Buddy and family?

As in Seventh Inning Stretch, Josh's parents go to the big game and find out Josh is missing (as is his girlfriend and Buddy). What do they do? They watch the game! Can you believe it! They show no concern for a missing child (at least in SIS they have a few lines about wondering where they could be). The way the mother was portrayed in the first movie, she should have been turning the town upside-down looking for Josh. Not a good portrayal of a loving family.

But, all in all, the movie is fun and appropriate for younger children (my four-year-old loved it).

Good Movie, Okay DVD
This Air Bud movie is pretty good. It has new characters and new storylines. The dogs and puppys are great and it has the usual bad guys. This time it is about soccer. Overall great movie and okay DVD. It is in fullscreen, that is why I gave it a 4 star rating. ... Read more

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Teen sensation Raven (That's So Raven) stars as Galleria Garibaldi in the Disney Channel's brightly hued adaptation of the popular book series. Produced by Whitney Houston, Josie and the Pussycats meets Destiny's Child in the form of the Cheetah Girls. Granted, they're a quartet--including Chanel (Adrienne Bailon), Aqua (Kiely Williams), and Dorinda (Sabrina Bryan)--but, like Josie's trio, they hope to make it big and, like Beyoncé, they favor exclamations like "Cheetah-licious!" After the foursome gets off to a slow start, everything starts to change when they meet producer Jackal Johnson. That's the good news. The bad is that the attention goes straight to Galleria's head (and she was never exactly lacking in self-esteem). By the end, she learns there's more to life than fame and fortune. Aimed at the tween audience, girls are likely to fall for these tuneful teens, while their parents may find all the giggling and squealing a bit much. --Kathleen C. Fennessy ... Read more

Reviews (17)

just wonderful
The Cheetah Girls is an inspiring film that I recomend for the whole family. With a wonderful sound track this movie will make you want to see it again and again. It teaches you about standing up for what you believe in. If youve seen the movie and still cant get enough of these cheetah superstars you can read the 12 books that the movies based on.

One of my FAVORITE movies ever!!!
I saw this movie a while back on the Disney Channel. After hearing some mixed reviews about it, some being good; some being bad, I decided to give it a try because it was about an all-girl band named "The Cheetah Girls" and I basically love anything about music.
When I watched it, I was amazed.
This movie contains friendship as well as lots and lots of awesome, cool songs!
I *HIGHLY* recommend this for people who loves movies about friendship and music. It's one of the best Disney movies I've ever seen.

5 Stars for simple reasons...
This movie was corny and all but I can't hate... that Sabrina Bryan girl is beautiful, feel me? haha... I jus HAD to let it be known... Adrienne is fine too, but Sabrina is hot (it's the smile girl!)... ayo, Sabrina if u read this hit me up... my email is SoulProfit@hotmail.com (psh, like she'd read this... or actually hit me up...) anyway... the names Soul Profit... i make beats... holla at me! I'm on my way to the top fam! HOLLA!

Cheetahlicious
Totally the best movie I have ever seen in my life! It's fun, and best of all inspiring! It's too bad I couldn't give this movie 6 stars!!

Great on tv and now on dvd
My nine year old daughter LOVED this movie on tv. She watched it over and over again. Now that we have it on DVD, she can start and stop whenever she wants. She loves the songs and the dance moves. A great movie. The sound track is good too. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Groundbreaking on several counts, not the least of which was aninnovative use of animation and stereophonic sound, this ambitiousDisney feature has lost nothing to time since its release in 1940.Classical music was interpreted by Disney animators, resulting insurreal fantasy and playful escapism. Leopold Stokowski and thePhiladelphia Orchestra provided the music for eight segments by thecomposers Tchaikovsky, Moussorgsky, Stravinsky, Beethoven, Ponchielli,Bach, Dukas, and Schubert. Not all the sequences were created equally,but a few are simply glorious, such as "Night on Bald Mountain," "TheSorcerer's Apprentice," and "The Nutcracker Suite." The animationranges from subtly delicate to fiercely bold. The screen bursts withcolor and action as creatures transmute and convention is thrust aside.The painstaking detail and saturated hues are unique to this film,unmatched even by more advanced technology. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (158)

Fantasia is Brilliant, But 3 Disk Set is Overrated
Walt Disney's 1942 FANTASIA was a groundbreaking film and remains a landmark to this day, a brilliant series of animated sequences set to notable concert music conducted by Leopold Stokowski of The Philadelphia Orchestra. The three disk FANTASIA ANTHOLOGY, however, is extremely overrated.

The first disk is the original FANTASIA, which Disney describes as restored. This is not strictly true. First and foremost, the restoration of visual elements is sloppy at best, with the film plagued by streaks and blips, and at least one sequence ("Dance of the Hours") appears to be slightly cropped. That aside, portions of the Deems Taylor narration have been completely lost, and these have been rerecorded by Tim Matheson--and Matheson's voice is not a good match for Taylor and the sychronization is poorly done. Lastly, one selection ("Pastoral") has been censored: a brief image, which would be considered racist by today's standards, has been deleted from the sequence.

Even so, it is still FANTASIA, and it overcomes all of these liabilities. The animation, which was created by hand and photographed through a number of laborious processes, shows Disney Studios at the height of its powers. Every one is certain to have their favorites among the selections (mine are "Dance of the Hours" and "Night on Bald Mountain"), but every selection is brilliantly conceived and executed, and although the content varies from sequence to sequence the overall style of the film hangs together in a most remarkable way. FANTASIA was, is, and will no doubt will forever remain a touchstone in animation art.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the second disk, FANTASIA 2000. This particular film is extremely uneven, the sequences lack the same cohesive style that held the original FANTASIA together, and the entire film is beset by a series of often obnoxious "celebrity" introductions that give the film the feel of a made-for-TV variety show. Still, some of the visual ideas are very impressive, and while they are too few to offset the portions of the film that do not work, they still make FANTASIA 2000 mildly entertaining.

Both the FANTASIA and FANTASIA 2000 disks include documentaries and commentary tracks on each film. The third disk, called "The Fantasia Legacy," is a bonus packed with interviews, archieval footage, and sketches that show how each sequence in both films was developed and then filmed. Some of this material is redundant, for it is included on the documentaries on the first two disks, but most of it is unique to this disk alone. Disney originally saw FANTASIA as a film that could be re-released with a mix of old and new selections every few years, and the most interesting material on the "Legacy" disk is a restored "Clair de Lune" (made for and then cut from the original FANTASIA) and various storyboard ideas for future sequences.

The only way one can obtain the "Legacy" disk is to purchase this three disk package--and therein lies the rub. The original FANTASIA is brilliant, and even in its so-so state it is worthy of a place in any DVD library. FANTASIA 2000, however, is trivial, occasionally interesting but not greatly memorable and not a piece that one would normally go out of the way to purchase. And the price for the three disk package is quite steep.

If you are a Disney fan who must have every scrap of material available, I would recommend the investment this package requires. But if your primary interest is the original FANTASIA, you are much better off simply purchasing a DVD of that film alone--the other two disks are simply not worth the expense. Purchasers should alos remember that the original FANTASIA does not often appeal to very young children, and if the purchase is being made for a child you are likely to be disappointed in their response. Final thought: the original FANTASIA is brilliant, FANTASIA 2000 is so-so, and the bonus disk is for hardcore fans. This pricey package is recommended to the latter only.

Fatasia is Beautiful - Even Better on DVD!
I saw Fantasia 2000 before a saw the original. And I love both of them, but I think I love the original just a little bit more. After I saw 2000, I wanted to go buy the original. But it wasn't around. When I found out it was coming out on DVD, I rushed out to buy it. The "Making of Fantasia" feature is great!

1. Toccata & Fugue - Rousing music, good choice for opening. But I'm not a big fan of abstract animation.

2. Nutcraker Suite - Although most people like the Sorcorer's Apprentice best, I like this one the best. The music is so catchy! This peice's fantasy characters make me feel like a little kid again.

3. The Sorcorer's Apprentice - Ummm . . . Its O.K. Its good to own since its hisotric in Micky Mouse history.

4. Rite of Spring - This segment rocked! Why doesn't anyone like it? If featured breakthrough technology for the '40s! And the dinosaurs were so accurately drawn according to science at that time!

5. Intermission & Sound Track - Was this stuff necisary?

6. Pastoral Symphony - Great music, mythological characters. I guess it depends on your conscience for wether or not to like this one.

7. Dance of the Hours - LOL! This piece was great! I never knew Fantasia had the "Camp Granada" song! And the hippos and croc are so cool!

8. Night on Bald Mountain - Disney went overboard on this one. It's pretty demonic. It's up to you one wether to watch that one or not. I know he wanted the biggest battle of good vs. but this was too much.

9. Ava Maria - Kinda hokey and religous. It's alright. but the multi-plain camera was put to good use.

A Work of Art
Fantasia is a very unique creation, there has never been another movie quite like it, before or since, and I think it's safe to say there never will be. Disney took a risk with creating something so dfferent from the norm; most of the American public is not likely to sit and listen to classical music for two hours, or watch a movie with no words. However, it was a very worthwhile risk, as Fantasia is a beautiful work of art, and has become a classic.
There is a certain captivating magic when the incredible sounds of the world's best musicians combine with the dazzling sights of the world's best animators. The imagery is full of fantasy, rich color, and graceful beauty. It's impossible not to be dazzled as the music washes over you, and you watch the stories of each of these little worlds unfold.

Misleading box, but it's still a masterpiece.
First, go click on the picture of the box so you can see a larger image. See how it says "Walt Disney's Original Uncut Version" at the bottom? Well, it's not. No, one scene in Fantasia was edited for every single home release as far as I know. It's in the scene "The Pastoral Symphony". When the female centaurs are getting all prettied up and ready for the male centaurs, you'll notice a very fuzzy extreme close up on one of them. What's going on in this scene? There's a black skinned centaur named Sunflower helping that one out. Go do a search for "Disney Sunflower Snopes" and it should show up. Why does Disney do this? Kids watching that part aren't really going to have any racist thoughts regarding the scene, or become a KKK member or anything after watching it. But there you have it, this isn't really "uncut" because of that. And this only enforces that there's a high chance of Disney not releasing Song of the South anytime soon. And this is a shame that they're going so P.C. that we're never going to be allowed to see how everything was originally released. If they can put out the Treasure tin sets, which have a lot of Asian and Spanish stereotypes, why is there such a problem with Song of the South and a black centaur?

Other than that, Fantasia is a masterpiece. While it didn't really help Disney out much financially, the animation that accompanies the music is flawless. You really admire the artists that worked on each short. While it took hundreds to work on one piece at a time, now it'd only take a couple of guys on a computer with the latest animation software a few days. It's funny that most of this looks better than a lot of recent Disney films. The colors, smoothness of the animation, and how it blends with the music is just breath taking.

The picture is as good as you're going to get for a movie this old. There's very little grain and dust on the print, and you'll hardly notice it with all the beauty on-screen. The audio is crisp and clear, so go nuts turning it up.

The special features are ok. The commentary is made up of interviews and clips from Walt and others. When some people speak on it, there's a little bit of static, which doesn't matter since it's taken from an early source. It's not going to interfere with hearing anything they say, but I just thought I'd mention it. It's still a very interesting commentary track. I listen to it from time to time and always learn something new. The documentary is pretty cool too, though a lot of it I've already heard from other Disney specials and such. If you want the real goods as far as extras go, get the Fantasia Anthology edition. The third disc on that sucker is amazing.

So if you're really expecting the "uncut" version, you'll be disappointed. I doubt it'll ever be released unless somehow Leonard Maltin can get that put out too. I mean, if he can get the Donald Nazi short put out in the newest wave of Disney Treasures, he's gotta have SOME chance of giving us the original Fantasia. Pick this up before it's out of print for another 10 years. It's a film to pass down the generations.

classic
This is a classic marriage of two art forms Music and Animation. There are six sets of classical pieces By the Philadelphia Orchestra under the leadership of Leopold Stokowski. Each piece is accompanied by animation that either tells a story or illustrates visually the music. Each piece is a feast for the eyes and ears. The most famous piece is Mickey Mouse as the sorcere's apprentice. He gets ahold of his master's magical hat and decides to take a short cut indoing his chores with disastrerous results. The two pieces that really stand out for me is the "Nutcracker Suite" and "Night on Bald Mountain" This is a great movie for anyone who enjoys classical music. It may be too "High Brow" for children but it could be a good medium to introduce them to classical music. ... Read more

Amazon.com

During the mid-'30s, Mickey Mouse's fans ranged from the more than onemillion children who were members of the Mickey Mouse Club to Franklin Roosevelt,Mary Pickford, and the Nizam of Hyderabad; theater marquees announced "A MickeyMouse Cartoon" with the feature titles. These wonderful shorts, many of which havenever been released to the home market, remind viewers just how charming Mickey wasbefore his popularity and role as a corporate symbol restricted his behavior. In thesecartoons Mickey's personality was boyish, appealing, and slightly mischievous. Thesuperb animation emphasizes that impish appeal. When Mickey dances with a deck ofcards in "Thru the Mirror," he displays a stylish grace Fred Astaire might envy; in "BraveLittle Tailor," his expressions and body language reveal his thoughts as he outwits Williethe Giant. It's virtually impossible to watch him without smiling. These shorts overflowwith color and motion, and their lavish visuals pack an increased impact in an era ofminimal television animation. Only Walt Disney would spend the money to animate afull deck of cards, a band flying through the air in a tornado, or a clutch ofsemitransparent ghosts, and only his animators could make those characters live on thescreen. The prints have been lovingly restored without pumping up the color too much:the nuances of the delicate watercolor backgrounds still come through. Parents, Disneybuffs, and animation fans will want this superb collection in their home libraries.Unrated: suitable for all ages. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (55)

Warner Bros take note!
Boy, is this the way to do a DVD of classic cartoons. Ever since I warmed up my DVD player for the first time I've been waiting for Disney, Warner Bros. and some of the other companies to release sets of their classic short cartoons -- there have been the odd collection here or there, but this Walt Disney Treasures Edition is really the way to do it!

To keep it brief, this is simply a collection of cartoons -- all of the Mickey Mouse color cartoons up until 1938, along with some nice behind-the-scenes stuff with Leonard Maltin and a rarely-seen short made for the 1939 World's Fair that seems like an ordinary enough Mickey and Minnie cartoon at first, but has a hysterical (from my perspective) twist at the end -- product placement is nothing new, folks.

While watching these cartoons something Maltin notes in one of his sequences becomes very obvious -- Mickey Mouse may be one of the most beloved characters on Earth, but in and of himself, he's not very funny. Oh he's cute, he's likeable, but he's not FUNNY. The animators knew this and started teaming him up with funnier characters -- Donald, Goofy and even Pluto -- and together made some wonderful cartoons. "Mickey's Trailer," included in this set, is still one of my favorite cartoons of all time.

I can't wait for the Mickey Mouse black-and-white set and the Goofy set scheduled to come out this Christmas -- and let's hope Disney does a Donald Duck collection soon. Word is that Warner Bros. is currently at work on DVDs of their Looney Tunes shorts (even better than the Disney shorts, in my opinion) -- take note, guys! This is the way to do your DVDs!

Compression artifacts hamper what would be a perfect set
Want to see three and a half hours of uninterrupted Mickey Mouse? Buy this DVD set and you will have the chance. There are some nice introductions by Leonard Maltin, a few extras with Walt Disney, and tons and tons of cartoons. Donald, Goofy, Pluto and Minnie are in almost all of these cartoons. Being a big Donald and Goofy fan, I was really glad to see my old friends.

The animation is top notch, just like you would expect from Disney. The "plots" of these cartoons are kind of weak, but hey, they are between five and ten minutes long. I guess I was expecting more of a story from them than the collection of gags that were strung together. Oh well, they were entertaining anyway.

The audio on these DVDs is pretty good. It does sound a bit shrill compared to today's cinematic releases, but it is definitely high quality. The video looks good, but not great. There is a noticeable amount of compression artifacts throughout. Surprisingly, it looks like the quality of the film is very good, or it was somehow restored, but the compression artifacts were a distraction.

I really like this new trend in limited releases with a stamped number on the DVD. I am a sucker for a gimmick. This set is well worth purchasing, and with Disney stuff you ought to buy it while you can because it probably won't be available forever!

Mickey Mouse in Living Color: A Great Collection
Walt Disney Treasures Review 2 of 11.

This review tells you where to find all the EASTER EGGS! (hidden DVD features)

Finally released on home video in their original glory is Mickey Mouse in Living Color, with the complete cartoons from 1935-1938. They are uncut, which mean yes, they are finally politcally incorect. (HOORAY!!!) Well, the set is, like the rest, in a limited numbered tin, with a postcard size lithograph of the movie poster for The Band Concert, and a program booklet, which lists the cartoons, features, and a letter from the host, Leonard Maltin.

Both disc share the same intro. On disc one we have every starring cartoon for 1935 and 1938.

1935

The Band Concert: Mickey Leads and outdoor band in a rousing rendition of William Tells Overture with Donald leading them astray with his fludte playing of Turkey in the Straw.

Mickey's Garden: Mickey and pluto protect their vegetable garden from bugs.

UNCENSORED: Bugs get drunk from Mickey's insecticide.

On Ice: On a frozen lake, Minnie looks on a Mickey Outskates Brian Boitano, along with antic of Donald, Goofy, and Pluto.

UNCENSORED: Goofy uses chewing tobacco to catch the fish.

Pluto's Judgement Day: After Mickey chastises Pluto for chasing cats, the dog has a nightmare in a feline hell on trial for his crimes.

UNCENSORED: Cats in black face sing of Pluto's misdeeds.

Mickey's Fire Brigade: Mickey Donald and Goofy try to rescue Clarabel Cow from her her burning house.

1936

Thru the Mirror: After falling asleep, Mickey dreams of actually going thru the mirror.

Mickey's Circus: Mickey and Donald are the main events of this circus for orphans

UNCENSORED: Donald Brandishes a rifle against his out-of-control seal act.

Mickey's Elephant: Mickey receives as a gift Bobo the Elephant, a playmate for Pluto, but turns out to be a disaster.

Mickey's Grand Opera: Mickey is the orchestra leader in an opera starring Clara Cluck and Donald Duck.

Mickey's Polo Team: Mickey's team of cartoon characters play polo against a team of famous Hollywood actors.

Alpine Climbers: Mickey Donald and Goofy get into trouble when they try their hand at mountain climbing.

UNCENSORED: Pluto gets drunk with a Saint Bernard.

Moving Day: Mickey and Donald enlist Goofy's aid when they are evicted from their hose by Sheriff Pete.

UNCENSORED: Pete lights a match for his cigar off of Donald's beak. Then deposits the spent match into Donald's beak.

Mickey's Rival: Miceky's romantic picnic is intterupted by Mortimer Mouse, resembling Walt.

Orphan's Picnic: Mickey and Donald take a group of orphans out for a picnic.

Bonuses on disc 1:

Pencil Tests: In 1935, there is a pencil test set. There is an intro by leonard, then you can play pencil tests for On Ice, Mickey's Fire Brigade, and Pluto's Judgement Day. You can use the angle button to toggle between pencil and finished color.

EASTER EGG! On Mickey's head on the main menu, Walt talks about the history of Mickey.

Parade of Award Nominees: A cartoon made for the 1932, academy awards featuring the stars nominated. It was Mickey's first appearance in full color.

Then we have disc 2. Here are more cartoons from 1937 and 1938, complete and uncensored.

1937

Hawaiian Holiday: The fab five are all together on the beaches of Hawaii

Moose Hunters: Donald and Goofy try to lure a moose by dressing up as a female of the species.

The Worm Turns: Mickey shows heretofore unseen mad scientist tenedencies when he concots a potion that turns the meek against their opressors.

UNCENSORED: Dogcatcher Pete threaten's to blow Pluto's head off with a shotgun.

Magician Mickey: Mickey has to deal with a heckling Donald During his Magic Act.

UNCENSORED: Donald pulls a pistol on Mickey and stagehand Goofy.

Mickey's Amateurs: Mickey hosts and amateur contest featuring the whole gang.

UNCENSORED: Donald Pulls a Machine Gun on the audience.

Clock Cleaners: Mickey, Donald and Goofy have the perilous job of cleaning a giant, big ben typebe clock.

Lonesome Ghosts: Mickey, Donald and Goofy as... GHOSTBUSTERS!

1938

Mickey's Parrot: Mickey and Pluto mistake a parrot for an escaped convict hiding in their house

UNCENSORED: Mickey's Got a Gun

Boat Builders: Mickey and Donald and Goofy put together a do-it-yourself boat kit.

The Whalers: Mickey, Donald, and Goofy set out on the open sea to harpoon a whale

UNCENSORED: Did I mention they are out to harpoon a whale?

Mickey's Trailer: Mickey, Donald, and Goofy travel the coutnryside withe their gadget filled trailer.

Brave Little Tailor: Mickey stars in a fairy tale as the title character and sets out to kill a giant.

UNCENSORED: The giant rolls and smokes a hay cig.

Bonuses

EASTER EGG! On the main menu, go to Mickey's Head to see a cartoon made for the 1939 New York World's Fair for Nabisco called Mickey's Surprise Party.

Mickey Mouse in Living Color Featurette: Leonard Maltin returns for a brief recap of Walt's career, including clip from some black and white shorts.

Gallery: A gallery showcasing pencil art, promotional arwork, posters, and production photos.

That is the second disc of the second set of Wave 1. Continue on to see Davy Crockett.

See you there!

Very rare DVD plus the best out there!
If you want the classic mid and late 1930's cartoons I suggest you buy this DVD! This has lots of entertainment. You will not regret when you buy this DVD! I Highly Reccomend this DVD to The People who missed the cartoons. people, they don't show the 1930's cartoon in the disney channel anymore! so decide quick before the DVD's sell out. Why Is the DVD fifty bucks or more? good question. A: because they don't make them anymore. plus they got the best out there. hey even it is fifty bucks, do not hesitate! BUY NOW!! ITS GETTING HOT!!

The Orginal and the Best. Mickey is THE Mouse.
Mickey and the gang mean as much to me now as they did when I was a kid.

This dvd is the one I watch when I've had a bad day or when I'm really tired and I don't want to think!

This is perfect to have on hand when kids come over - I don't have any kids of my own - I can put this on and they will watch it and there's no super scary stuff, just good clean fun.

I love Finding Nemo and The Lion King but it scares some kids which I totally understand!

I have also found that alot of the adults usually end up having desert and coffee in the TV room cause they want to watch Mickey too.

Never underestimate the power of the mouse! ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Fun from start to finish
Freaky Friday is a hilarious film. It is filled with funny, quotable dialogue. The script is great, and what makes it all come together are the performances by it's stars. Jodie Foster is very good and entertaining as Annabel. Barbara Harris as Mrs. Andrews is so wonderful she steals the show. Her transformation into her teenage daughter trying to be a wife and mother is a blast. Barbara Harris has a wacky, rebelliousness that comes though in her performance. It's perfect. Her scenes with Boris (Annabel's teenage crush who lives across the street) and her son Ben, are especially funny.

The young Sparky Marcus as little Ben Andrews is adorable. His scene of confiding in his "mother" about his true feelings for sister Annabel is very touching. Marc McClure as Boris Harris (who makes a cameo appearance in 2003's Freaky Friday as Boris making a delivery) is great in his role as the allergy-prone object of Annabel's affections. Another standout character is Mrs. Schmauss the cleaning lady. Her interactions with "Mrs. Andrews" are side splitting.

The title song, "I'd Like To Be You For A Day", is really beautiful and compliments the sentiment in the film. Freaky Friday is a feel good film with a message that is obvious, but also has a subtle message throughout that reminds us not to take life too seriously. It seems to say "Enjoy the people you love, appreciate their individuality and struggles, and most of all, allow yourself to have fun on this crazy journey."

Original 1977 FREAKY FRIDAY Is The Best!
For a guy who likes Ingmar Bergman and other indy, artsy films, I guess it seems weird that I bought the DVD of the original FREAKY FRIDAY the minute it hit amazon. But, this film was made in the good old days of Disney, before they lost focus of their business and started behaving like most other monster corporations. This story has had at least 3 lives: the 2003 version (enjoyable), the 90's TV version (I never saw that one), and the one at hand. The original 1977 release gives us the unique pleasure of seeing two wonderful performers, Barbara Harris and Jodie Foster, going through their paces in this mother-daughter-switch tale. Barbara Harris is one of the great performers who never quite made the level of fame she deserved. Whether in her Broadway turns in ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER and THE APPLE TREE, to several good films, she had an amazing ability to be vulnerable in one moment and seamlessly turn into a glamourous, gutsy bombshell in the next. And her voice! This film and, perhaps, Hitchcock's FAMILY PLOT are nice samplings of her skill. Add in the very young Jodie Foster and you can't lose. (The DVD has a nice on-screen commentary by Foster, which proves how spontaneously articulate she is. Too bad they didn't get Harris to discuss her part.) As an added benefit, the screenplay is by source book author, Mary Rodgers (Richard Rodgers' daughter and author-composer in her own right). For those who like THE GILMORE GIRLS, which is a tremendous and enjoyable example of an almost-impossibly-idealistic relationship between a mother and her daughter, this film will be a nice reality check. Here the mother and daughter can't relate to each other at all until they go through the fiery baptism of spending a day in each other's body. Ultimately, this film provides us with 90-plus minutes of enjoyment and humor in the hands of the very talented cast.

Extremly Funny!!!!!!!!
I like this one MUCH better than the remake! Although the remake was still good. It is MUCH closer to the book. It was also more funny and I thought that Jodie Foster did an excellent job as Annabel! MUCH better than Lindsey Lohan. I also thought that Barbara Harris did a great job as Ellen. The Remake is not close to the book at all. After you see the orginal one, you'll probaly think that the remake isn't as good!

The best nothing beats a classic!
I grew up with this movie. I think I saw it for the first time on the wonderful world of Disney. Either that or Mom got it for me at the library & even she likes it.
Jodi foster is both brilliant & lovable! She's believable and as the child her issues where at least believable & somebody I could sypathise with. As an adult in a childs body well hillarious! By the way Ben or Ape Face really showed talent. What happened to that kid? He was cute & delivered a preformance of giant perportion that added dynamic to both mother and daughter. Plus that ball game scene & his love & envy of his big sister. The kid had a real talent for delivering dialog, yet also proved though he first apears a little geek that he had a real little boys spirit.
The jokes where clean & in good taste. Yet timeless & funny. Nothing beats a great chase scene & that car chase was both exciting and funny.
I seached long & hard for a copy of the vhs but it'd been vaulted. just when I bought it used My VCR broke & I got a DVD player for my birthday. A week later the DVD came out. Purchase of that DVD is one of the first things I'll do with my next paycheck. It will be money well spent on a classic disney movie I could watch again & again.

Thank you, Disney
At last, Disney DVD presents a fine, widescreen print of one of its '70's classics with an accompanying twenty-minute recollection by Jodie Foster of her formative years on the Disney lot. Although this DVD of the original "Freaky Friday" is not a special edition, it is exactly the kind of product we Disney fans and DVD purists have been begging for. Hopefully, good sales will lead to new widescreen releases of previously botched fullscreen DVDs of "Follow Me, Boys," "Son of Flubber," "The Gnome Mobile" and "Blackbeard's Ghost," among others.

One of the first of the popular body-switching genre, 1977's "Freaky Friday" is a fast-paced, perceptive comedy about a typical mother-and-daughter relationship and how the two react when they literally switch personalities for a day, with Foster's Annabel trapped in her mother's body, and Barbara Harris' Ellen going to junior high as Annabel. The complications are obvious but nonetheless funny and engaging, with Harris proving herself a skilled physical comedienne while skateboarding, playing baseball, and suffering through numerous pratfalls and humiliations. My only problem with Harris' performance is she seems to be playing Annabel too young--perhaps as a nine-year-old instead of a bright thirteen-year-old, so she's never entirely believable in the role. (Jamie Lee Curtis, on the other hand, nails the teenager-in-a-grownup-body role in the remake.) Foster, on the other hand, is just about perfect in her characterization of daughter/mother Annabel. Even in 1977 it was easy to see this phenomenal young talent was destined for great things as an actress. Indeed, "Freaky Friday" was part of an incredible string of top-notch performances Foster gave from 1973-1977 ("Tom Sawyer," "Echoes of a Summer," "Bugsy Malone," "Taxi Driver," "The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane" and "Candleshoe") that turned her into one of the finest (if not THE finest) child actresses of all time.

Rounding out the cast is a fine group of veteran actors: John Astin as Bill Andrews, Annabel's confused father; Patsy Kelly as the family's grumpy and unlikeable housekeeper; Dick Van Patten as Bill's boss; and Ruth Buzzi, in a funny cameo as a field hockey coach (her strategy: "Get Annabel Andrews and get her good!") Gary Nelson's direction is crisp, and the script by novelist Mary Rodgers perceptive for the time, although she was forced to change the plot somewhat to include that tired Disney '70's staple: a protracted slapstick car chase involving Ellen/Annabel outracing several police cars without facing any consequences whatsoever. Like most Disney films of the era, the production values are stellar and the film is colorful and reminiscent of a live-action cartoon. Even the opening cartoon-credit sequence is engaging.

Yes, there are some creepy sexual subtexts here (which Foster amusingly comments on in the documentary) involving Bill and neighbor-teen Boris (Marc McClure) both coming onto Ellen/Annabel, but they will go right over younger kids' heads and older kids will be as amused by it as their parents. Regardless, this is perfect family entertainment and will make a fine double-feature with the 2003 remake, which is equally good with its own merits. (I prefer Jamie Lee Curtis over Harris, and Foster over Lohan and think the remake is more successful in dealing with the sexual subtexts; i.e., the makers wisely scuttle the father's role and make Curtis a widow with a fiance played by Mark Harmon, which was the smartest of many changes made in the plot.)

So, once again, thank you, Disney, for a fine DVD of one of your best '70's films. Please, please, please follow this one up with more widescreen releases. ... Read more

Reviews (88)

Almost as good as the original Broadway show...
This has been one of my favorite musicals ever since I saw the original Broadway show back in 1978. The Disney version of this classic show is much, much better than the overblown, overdone 1982 film because it is much more faithful to the stage production, even though there are a few minor plot changes.

I felt that the singing and acting was quite good. Alicia Morton was a great Annie, and Audra MacDonald played Grace Farrel, Oliver Warbucks secretary to a tee. Kathy Bates was as good of a Miss Hannigan as Carol Burnette was in the 1982 version of the film. The only person that I thought was miscast was Victor Garber as Daddy Warbucks. In all honesty, Albert Finney played the role so much better, and with more warmth and compassion than Garber. One of the big highlights in the film (for me, anyway) is Andrea McArdle's (the orignal Annie) cameo in the "N.Y.C." number. Most of the key songs from the stage show are there. However, "We'd like to thank you Herbert Hoover", "Annie", and " A New Deal for Christmas" are missing. And I admit, that I missed them in this production. Check out the CD from the original show to hear these tunes. All in all, this version from Disney is quite enjoyable, and I do recommend it.

A beautiful new telling of the musical legend!
Many people pass off ANNIE as a children's musical, when in actuality it has one of the most sophisticated scores and the book is of a higher standard than of many other shows. It still holds a record of something like the 8th or 9th longest running show on Broadway, and it is a delight among theatre-goers.

This new Disney version stays faithful to the stage score and script, not like John Huston's rambling version back in 1981 (refer to my review for this), and it is a delight to watch. It has that 'theatrical-style' feel to it.

The esteemed cast, the bulk of which are seasoned Broadway performers, include Kathy Bates as Miss Hannigan, Alan Cumming as Rooster, Audra McDonald as Grace Farrell, Kristin Chenoweth as Lily St Regis, Victor Garber as Daddy Warbucks and the lovely Alicia Morton as Annie. Making a cameo in the 'NYC' number as ''Star To Be'' is (oh happy day) the original Broadway Annie - Andrea McArdle.

The cast is sensational, and while I will not bring down the 1981 performers of Carol Burnett, Bernadette Peters and Ann Reinking, they are far more believable in their interpretations.

You must buy this new version of the Broadway smash ANNIE!

There's Nothing Like a Broadway Show
I'm sorry but I think that both of the Annie movies are just theatre wanna-be's. I respect the fact that they are trying to get stars into the films and everything, but don't you think that it would have been a lot better if someone from broadway was playing the roles. Like Idina Menzel, or Christian Chenowith...the best singers are really on broadway.

Almost as good as the original; pleasing to watch!
I thought that this movie is a great version of the classic story. Disney did a great job with the dancing and singing, and the acting was pretty good, too.
Audra McDonald did a nice job as Grace, but I don't think it was logical for Oliver Warbucks (Victor Garber) to marry another race. The first Annie was much more realistic with that issue. Oscar winner Kathy Bates did an excellent job as the cruel Miss Hannigan, and Alan Cumming and Kristin Chenoweth as Rooster and Lily are also good. The Disney version is more cleaner than the original, and it almost matches up to it. This is a great version of Annie to watch with your family!!

real "CUTE"
A great film, fun cute and bright and sunny for the whole family. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The first of two features Walt Disney made at the behest of the OfficeofInter-American Affairs, Saludos Amigos consists of four cartoons linkedby live-action travel footage. The very funny "Lake Titicaca" findsDonald Duck high in the Bolivian Andes, struggling with a recalcitrant llama."Pedro," the story of a little airplane replacing his father on a mailrun across the Andes, is a variation on "The Little Engine That Could.""El Gaucho Goofy" continues the popular "How To" cartoon series thatjuxtaposes a deadpan narration with increasing physical mayhem. Here, Goofy demonstrates Pampas-style riding and the use of the bola. The jaunty parrot Jose Carioca makes his debut in "Aquarela do Brasil." Although largelyeclipsed by the wilder The Three Caballeros (1944), SaludosAmigos retains its charm. Included in the supplemental material is South of the Border withDisney, which chronicles the Good Will Tour Walt and a group of hisartists made in 1941. The 16mm footage has darkened, but this featuretteoffers rare glimpses of some of these artists at work, including FrankThomas, Norm Ferguson, and Mary Blair, whose stylized drawings set the lookfor much of Saludos Amigos and Caballeros. --CharlesSolomon ... Read more

Reviews (22)

A Very Charming Little Picture...Not Dull and Boring
While most of the reviews have been critical of this 1943 "package feature", it is really cute and informational. It is a Disney classic, featuring the animation of many classic artists and animators, such as Mary Blair, Fred Moore, Norm Ferguson, Les Clark, Milt Kahl, Ward Kimball and others. It is the first feature which combines live action with animation, and would pave the way for other features to come, such as "Mary Poppins", "Bedknobs and Broomsticks", and many others.

"Saludos Amigos" is comprised of 4 shorts, "Lake Titicaca", "Pedro", "El Gaucho Goofy", and "Aquarela De Brasil". Many classic Disney characters are included, including the slapstick Goofy and Donald Duck. New characters are introduced, which include Jose Carioca, the samba dancing friend of Donald.

There is also an array of bonus features, including an original theatrical trailer from 1943, and a documentary on the making of the film, which displays many of the films' crew members at work.

Overall, I think this is a very charming feature film.

Fair Disney movie
Being a fan of the Three Cabalerros I was excited to hear that this movie would finally be available on home video minus a previous laser disc release. This movie was slightly a dissappointment. Not because of the film, just its length. 42 minutes just doesn't constitute as a feature for me. Other than that squabble, I enjoyed it. The DVD transfer is sharp and clear once again in the animation scenes, but the live action 16mm stuff is grainy but will probably will never look better. The extra "South of the Border" featurette is a nice addition but it reuses a lot of the material from the feature. Losing 2 seconds of footage of Goofy smoking is really no big deal to me, if Disney wants to "protect" children, whatever, it doesn't change the plot and is really insignificant.

Not as lively and exciting as The Three Cabelleros.
In this film, we see Disney and his fellow animators travel to Latin America. In this however, you feel as if you are watching the Discovery channel with a little Disney thrown in. The film is whimsical when you come across a Disney cartoon, but all the inbetween bits are lackluster and boring. If maybe you traveled along with Mickey or Goofy it may have been more exciting. Sorry. Good but lacks.

Disney's 6th Animated Masterpiece!
Walt Disney took his staff on a special trip to South America where the animators found all the needed material to create this wonderful, although rare, feature. The film does not really have much of a plot but it is very entertaining, the animation is wonderful and it briefly describes all the good things in South America, from their beautiful landscapes, to their sweet music. One of my favorite scenes is when Donald tries to cross a suspention bridge on a llama, it was very funny. The film has four different cartoons, as I said, not much of a storyline but really something fun to watch once in a while.

The DVD, as all the other Gold Collection titles does not bring much in bonus features, but since this isn't one of Disney's most majestic titles, it will do. This edition only brings an original trailer and a documentary featurette, not much, but enough.

For True Disney Fans
This film was made during the war and Walt didn't have the money to turn out another full length animated film. To appease his fans, he made a film which is basically a trip with him and some of his best animators "South of the Border." The animators where then inspired to make several short animated films, which are all packaged together to make this feature. The back of the box says "Total Running Time: Approc. 75 Minuites." By total running time, the mean with special features. The film is only 45 minuites, and the bonus "South of the Border With Disney" was a television show he did. If you are not a Disney fan, I don't recomend this film to you, because it is not like the other well known animated films you are used to. The picture and sound are not very good. Disney didn't feel the need to tough it up because hardley anyone knew of it's existance. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Love all 4!
My daughter is now 9 1/2 months old, and has been watching these 4 DVD's for the past 4 months or so. She absolutely loves them! They keep her totally captivated. There are times that she gets so preoccupied that I can not get her to drink her bottle, but as soon as I put one of these DVDs on, she'll calm down and drink her bottle while watching the entire video. I swear by them! I am now expecting my 2nd child, and looking into buying more of them.

Wonderful
I have read scathing reviews on how Baby Einstein is a rip-off, and that it is a waste of money to buy these videos. I have found while babysitting that every child I watch from 3 months to 4 years finds something of interest in the videos and cds. It has also been written that these are bad for children because they just sit and stare at them, when clearly if these parents had watched the entire video and listened to the explanation at the end of the movie telling them that these videos were meant to be used for interaction WITH their children not as substitute entertainment and education. And while these videos are entertaining to small children, they do get a little monotonous for adults, but what child's toy doesn't begin to annoy you after about the tenth time you hear it's song or read the same silly story that your child loves so much because you do the same silly voices while you read it that you've done the last twenty times you read it for them. These videos and cds also have wonderful soft music and sounds fit for babies' sensitive hearing and is very soothing to not only them but you. Studies show that children exposed to different kinds of music, especially classical, show a higher use of advanced brain waves than children that aren't. Studies also show that any positive interaction with your baby advances them socially and emotionally over children that are ignored. The Baby Einstein company also makes books and toys that can be used to advance your babies in other ways. So I feel that this company is exploring every avenue of development for small children. I may not have children of my own yet but all the babies I take care of love these videos and cds, and I intend to purchase them and use them WITH my own children someday.

I paid money for this little thing!?!?!?!?!?
This is by far the WORST dvds ever! In ALL of the dvds under the Baby Einstein company, they all feature the same thing: cheap toys with a colorful background!!! I am not kidding you. You would be better off by buying the toys instead of the dvds. It would not only be more effiecent cost wise, but interacting with babies, is much better than sitting them in front of a screen watching a video\dvd type of thing. Throughout the baby einstein series, the same toys are used over and over and over... If you think about it, the baby eistein company is taking YOUR precious money for cheap toys and some clever editing they put on dvds! If you look closely at the dvds, you can oviously tell that not a lot of work went into making the dvd. When you first watch it, the question you will most likely ask yourself is: how much money did they put into producing this dvd? Buying one is enough to know the whole series. In addition, studies have shown that TV is BAD for growing babies. Save your money and avoid this dvd at all costs! I would give this dvd ZERO stars but by the review standards, that is not an option.

*0/5 stars* ... Read more