Bambi (1942)

Director: David Hand
Starring: Hardie Albright, Stan Alexander, Bobette Audrey

Synopsis:
A young fawn grows up and finds his place in the forest.

Impressions:
This is one of the quintessential Disney classics that practically needs no introduction, but memories of such cloying scenes as Bambi and Thumper playing on the ice can belie the true craftsmanship of the film. It truly is an impressive achievement on both a technical and artistic level. We can see the work tying animation to music in the earlier Fantasia used to good effect here, such as in the "Little April Shower" sequence. You've got an interesting juxtaposition of the signature cloying scenes such as the one previously mentioned with rather stark tension whenever the dreaded Man enters the picture. I'm sure there are many children scarred by some of the more frightening moments, but it feels like a necessary rite of passage. This is definitely one of the greats in the Disney canon and well worth a place in your collection.

Rating:
Treasure It