101 Movies In 2011 - Movie #8 - Pinnocchio (1940)
Snow White might have been the first ‘proper’ Disney film, but this is the first ‘good one. Strong words I know, but for me, this has more of a story, more characterisation (Pinnocchio may be an annoying brat but he’s a child, he’s allowed to be. Snow White is a grown woman.)
Another thing in it’s favour - the music. ‘When You Wish Upon A Star’ is a bonafide classic. One that is actually part of the Disney ‘trailer’ (there is most probably a more ‘technical term for it, but it describes it!) that appears before all of their ‘animation’ films. (I’ll have to go see Tron: Legacy to check to see if it’s on the live action ones too - oh the hardship!)
It’s blindingly obvious that lessons were learned from Snow White because this film benefits from them. As I’ve already said, the characterisation, the story, the music, the look. Everything.
If you haven’t seen this recently, I do advise that you have a look. It’s good.
Also - Empire Magazine's guide to all 50 Disney movies. No, I am *not* going to see all of them - perhaps a third (Beauty and the Beast as many times as they'll allow me... whut?!)