Pinocchio [Blu-ray]

To this day, animations can still be overlooked when critics judge some of the greatest films of all time. It's a pity, because such stories as Pinocchio are up there with the best, if not challenging the more conventional 'movies' with real actors. Don't get me started on Mister Wooden Keanu Reeves....How fitting then a fictional wooden character in the name of Pinocchio can act better than a full grown man?Their is no denying that this is Walt DIsney's masterpiece. His second full length feature film, Pinocchio is as appropriate today as it was 70 years ago (I know.. It beggars belief even saying the number), and will remain a timeless piece forever, now thankfully preserved on DVD (this product) and Blu-Ray. Why? Quite simply, it captures some of our rawest emotions in the most beautiful of imagery. Although it was the animators that grafted each cel out day by day, it was Disney himself who had the final word on every shot, to make an experience that was so engaging it brings a tear to your eyes, whether it a couple of bars from "Wish Upon A Star", or seeing Pinocchio himself cry inside his cage, locked up.The story itself encounters a wooden Puppet (Pinocchio), whom is wished by his creator to come alive and be a real boy. Granted by the stars, a fairy brings Pinocchio to life, but is told he can only become a 'real' boy if performs acts worthy enough to help others.Perhaps the single greatest theme throughout this movie is the idea of trusting ones conscience. For Pinocchio, this is beautifully symbolized by the cute little character Jimminy Cricket, who is assigned the task of helping Pinocchio learn what is right and wrong. Though he appears to be just a secondary character, he actually has the most important role in the film; directing his thoughts to the audience, and addressing morals that we all learn from, no matter what age we are. The whole scene and ideas surrounding 'Pleasure Island' are absolute genius, when taking into account the idea of rebellious natures without a reason. For Pinocchio, he has the choice of whether to be led along by the 'bad boy' gangs, or to stick with his conscience.Lets not forget about the animation either. Although Disney almost went bankrupt after his first three films (Snow White, Pinocchio, and Fantasia), they are not just coincidentally his best either. The extra man power, attention to detail, and sheer research that went into animating these three films is quite mind boggling in a day and age were computers do most of the work now. This is perhaps the reason why Pinocchio looks so friendly and comforting - you know that someone, somewhere put their heart and soul into making this the best looking feature Disney could afford, and despite it's immense Digitial clarity, looks no more like a computer rendered it than slice of cake being an apple. It just has that special touch.I guess for some, it is easy to forget these days why the term 'Disney' is a household name, what with such garbage as 'Hannah Montana'. As a reminder, watching Pinocchio reveals Walt's greatest achievement. He admitted he wasn't the best free-hand drawer, but he did have was a gift to capture our hearts. As many who knew him said, "No-body reeally knew him". Perhaps it was best that way.

It is hard to believe that this original Disney animation of Pinocchio is almost 80 years old – made in 1940 – yet it still holds the same appeal for my grandchildren, nieces and nephews as it did for me when I watched it as a child many years ago. Telling the story of Geppetto, a woodcarver who makes a puppet, Pinocchio, as a substitute son, this is a magical, colourful film with great songs and a life lesson.After a fairy brings Pinocchio to life he must earn the right to be a human boy by being honest, kind and good. However, Pinocchio soon learns that being a boy brings lots of challenges and adventures, some good, some not so good. A timeless classic which is enjoyable for all generations to share, remember or learn from. 5*

Although this is a French product everything on it is in English. You get it all at a very nice price too.

Lovely story and songs. I love it’s overall message but parents need to be aware that this story was written and animated in completely different times with different values and approach to children upbringing. There are scenes of children drinking, smoking and vandalising as well as physical punishment (little figurine smacking child’s bare backside) completely shocking these days. However with appropriate parent narrative could be very educational, reinforcing message: “do not follow the crowd” My daughter loved it but we watched it together as I expected some strong themes. Original book would be even harder to digest by modern child

If you missed this first time around, because your parents thought you'd be a little frightened, or because they just could not afford to take you to the "pictures", then find a cosy chair, make yourself comfortable and collect the grandchildren together for an experience that can only be described as wonderful.My first viewing was in a local YMCA theatre as a small boy. My mother took me out on a cold and wet winter evening I shall never forget. True, the screen was barely any bigger than the HD television I use today, and the reel had already seen the best of the service they could give. However, once seen, never forgotten!This is a story for "children" of all ages: a fairytale with magical make-believe figures with a strong warning to children who think that telling lies will help them. A splendid yarn told in a totally remastered version for High Definition television, and a couple of songs to sing along with, for ever and a day.

Pinocchio' benefits from one of the finest collection of songs to grace a Disney cartoon; from 'I Got No Strings', to 'An Actor's Life For Me', and (best of all) 'When You Wish Upon A Star' - brilliant sung by 'Ukelele Ike' Edwards as Jiminy Cricket.This cute adaptation from Carlo Corolli's classic novel adds pets with the 'awwww’ factor (cat and fish), as well as a truly scary sequence involving donkeys on Pleasure Island. The characters are all memorable and Pinocchio is convincing in his move from a wooden puppet to a real boy, even in cartoon form. Good voice talent from Evelyn Venable as the Blue Fairy too, especially in the bits where Pinocchio can't help revealing he isn't telling the truth!Short, sweet, funny, dark and involving, everything to pull at your heartstrings, 'Pinocchio' is worth anybody's time, young or old. Definitely recommended 5⭐️