Pinocchio (Disney Gold Classic Collection)
Average Rating: 4.5 Total Reviews: 293
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 On: 2010-02-13
I bought this wonderful Pinocchio two disc 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition CD. I really enjoyed watched it and the price and shipping were really great. Thank you.
On: 2010-02-10
We got this at Christmas time and put the Blu-Ray version up so the kids wouldnt destroy both versions at one time. Just so you know, even though it comes with a blu-ray and is "HD" doesnt mean it will view the same as modern movies in HD. It was made a long time ago and would have to be chopped considerably to fit into our new widescreen TVs. So as with other older Disney blu-ray releases they have filled in the sides so you dont have black space there. In Snow White they had red curtains hanging to give it a movie theater feel. Overall we were pleased with the movie and the vivid colors.
On: 2010-02-07
I recently bought Pinocchio on Blue Ray, and was blown away by the colors and the quality! I was skeptical that it could look much better than before, but the Blue Ray did make a huge difference. Id recommend this to anyone who wants to add a high quality classic to their collection. Its worth the extra money.
On: 2010-02-06
We recieved excellent service from this vendor. We would use them again. Thanks so much.
 On: 2010-02-06
Disney took the cheap way out by releasing this movie in 4x3 full screen format instead of one of the widescreen formats that Blu Ray disks are normally released in. This is the only Blu Ray disc I have seen in 4 x 3 format. I returned the Blu Ray disc because I refuse to pay Disneys premium price for a non widescreen Blu Ray of Pinoccio. I hope Disney re releases it in widescreen because it is an excellent movie.
On: 2010-02-01
I received this my movies quicker then the ETA given. I was very pleased with the condition of the movies.
On: 2010-01-31
When I received my movie, I got a BluRay disc instead of a DVD, like I ordered. I emailed the seller and they resolved the issue instantly! I got the DVD and they sent me a pre-paid label to send back the BluRay movie. Great seller!
On: 2010-01-30
I may not be as well versed in the technical end of Disney movies but this film is my favorite Disney film. I originally saw it during its initial theatrical release when I was a child. I maintain that the detail in the scenes is amazing. The clocks in Gepettos shop are a wonderful experience itself. The detail that was put into these early hand drawn animated features is flawless. I just cant immagine any one today doing all that work on any film. Now all that work is done with computers and although the films look wonderful, there is something magical about an old hand drawn Disney flick. The updating of the film onto Blu-ray is amazing. It is clear and sparkles. I had purchased Pinocchio on VHS when it was released a few years ago but this is a vast improvement.
 On: 2010-01-17
I had never seen Pinocchio-- I bought it for my daughter. It is worth watching. You better get it before it diappears into the Disney vault for a while.
On: 2010-01-16
Pinocchio is one hour and twenty-seven minutes long and was released in theaters on February 9, 1940. The story begins with Jiminy Cricket introducing the story of Pinocchio and who it all began. Jiminy Cricket hopped into a clock and toy shop where all the clocks and toys are made out of wood. After exploring the place he spots Pinocchio and soon Geppetto, along with his pet cat Figaro, walks into the room to put the finishing touches on the place. At the time Pinocchio had no name and it was Geppetto who gave Pinocchio his name. Figaro and Cleo, Geppettos pet goldfish, do not like the name. Later on that night, Geppetto makes a wish on the Wishing Star and he wishes that Pinocchio was a real boy. After Geppetto, Figaro and Cleo are sound asleep; the Blue Fairy appears and turns Pinocchio into a living puppet. She tells Pinocchio if he wants to become a real boy then he must prove to be brave, truthful and unselfish. Pinocchio must also be able to tell right from wrong and to listen to his conscience. The Blue Fairy appoints Jiminy Cricket to be Pinocchios and help him to teach right from wrong. While Jiminy Cricket and Pinocchio are singing Give A Little Whistle, Pinocchio falls onto some pots and wakes up Geppetto, Figaro and Cleo. Geppetto finds to his surprise that Pinocchio has come to life. Geppetto realizes that his wish has come true and is overcome with joy. The next day Geppetto sends Pinocchio to school. On his way to school Pinocchio runs into John Worthingthon "Honest John" Foulfellow and Gideon. Honest John tricks him into actors life. Jiminy Cricket, who is running late, tries to talk Pinocchio out of it. Pinocchio instead goes with Honest John and Gideon. Honest John real intent is to sell Pinocchio to Stromboli who is a puppet master. Stromboli uses Pinocchio in his act and in his stage debut Pinocchio sings Ive Got No Strings. Jiminy Cricket finally catches up to Pinocchio and sees Pinocchio enjoying himself. At first Jiminy was just going to leave Pinocchio, but instead decides to say good-bye to him and wish him luck. When he arrives he finds that Stromboli has locked Pinocchio in a bird cage. Jiminy tries to pick the lock but is unable to do so. The Blue Fairy arrives and asks Pinocchio what has happen. When Pinocchio starts to tells lies his nose begins to grow. The Blue Fairy explains "A lie keeps growing and growing until its as clear as the nose on your face." Pinocchio say he will go straight the Blue Fairy sets him free. On the way home Pinocchio runs into John Worthingthon "Honest John" Foulfellow and Gideon again. To Pinocchio credit he does try to talk his way out of Honest John offer to go to Pleasure Island saying he has to go home. Honest John once again tricks Pinocchio and as Jiminy Cricket says here we go again. Jiminy Cricket has a bad feeling about Pleasure Island and Pinocchio along with his new friend Lampwick go off and have a good time. Jiminy finally finds Pinocchio playing pool with Lampwick and Jiminy is furious. Pinocchio is having a good time does not want to leave and Jiminy leaves in a huff. Jiminy finds out the truth about Pleasure Island; the kids are being turned into donkeys to be sold to salt mines and circuses. Jiminy runs back to inform Pinocchio about what is going. In the meantime Pinocchio is watching Lampwick turn into a donkey and Pinocchio is also taking on donkey features. Pinocchio grows a donkeys tail and ears. Jiminy arrives and rescues Pinocchio. Once the two are back home they find the home baron and a message from the Blue Fairy saying Geppetto, Figaro and Cleo went looking for him but were swallowed by a whale named Monstro and resides there now. Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket go in search of Monstro and find him. Pinocchio is swallowed by Monstro and is reunited with Geppetto, Figaro and Cleo. Pinocchio comes up with a plan to escape and Monstro sneeze the gang out of his stomach. This makes Monstro angry and tries to get them back in his stomach again. Pinocchio is able to save his father but at the cost at his own. Back at Geppettos home, they are all morning the lost of Pinocchio. Unknown to the mourners the Blue Fairy appears and because Pinocchio has brave, truthful and unselfish, she turns Pinocchio. Pinocchio is one of Disneys greatest classics and has a mixture of humor, sadness, and song. Pinocchio gets an AAAAA+++++.
DVD FEATURES
Chapter Selection
Bonus Material
A) Original Theatrical Trailer (1940)
B) Film Recommendations
Set Up
Play
On: 2009-12-23
I visited Florence, Italy this year which is the home of Pinocchio. I bought 2 wooden marionettes for my great grandchildren who live in New York. When I got back home I researched Amazon.com. I found the original Pinocchio movie with Mel Blanc and purchased it for the children.
The children just loved it and cant wait until I visit them to watch the movie with them. I am anxious to see the movie, because I was a little girl when Pinocchio was so popular.
On: 2009-12-16
This Blu-ray edition is so much better, its only like a dollar more than the regular DVD one. First, there are three disc; the first disc is a Blu-ray of the movie, the second disc is a Blu-ray of bonus features, and the third disc is a DVD of the movie with features. Youre basically getting the movie twice (on Blu-ray and DVD); I was very please when I found that out, especially since the price is so insignificant to the regular DVD one. So I kept the Blu-ray disc of the movie, and then I sent the DVD version to my son (he doesnt have Blu-ray anyway, and I dont need two versions of the movie). Also, wow, the technicolor is so amazing!!! I wish that they still made movies in technicolor, its too bad The Godfather was the last movie in America to have been made in technicolor - all this digital coloring stuff looks as bad as when Ted Tunner tried to colorize black and white films in the 1980s.
But I digress - anyway, true to all of its marketing advertistment, it is true, colors are restored and remastered in its brilliant technicolor format (you wouldnt even need a HDTV; I have one, but you wouldnt need one, thats how good the colors are). The sound is also incredible, the movie volume came across louder than my cable channels; I had it on volume level 25 when I was watching TV, and when I put the movie in, it was so loud I had to lower the volume to 12 - great sound!
Buy it, buy it, buy it!!!
On: 2009-12-10
Great picture quality. Watched it with my 21 month grandson and he loved it. Great memories and price!
On: 2009-12-04
Like most of them, Disneys second feature-length animated film has a subtle moral: if a child will honor his parents, go faithfully to school, tell the truth, and above all avoid temptation to do wrong, what he most longs for will someday be his. The old woodcarver Geppetto (Christian Rub) lives in a picturesque little village in the Italian Alps, alone except for his tuxedo kitten Figaro and goldfish Cleo, creating beautiful toys and wondrous mechanical clocks and music boxes. Not till he makes the marionette he calls Pinocchio does he realize how much he longs for more. So, when the brilliant Wishing Star appears outside his bedroom window, he asks to have the puppet become "a real boy." And because he has brought so much joy to so many through his work, the Blue Fairy (Evelyn Venable) descends from the star to grant his desire. She brings Pinocchio to life--but hes still made of wood. "Prove yourself brave, truthful, and unselfish, and some day you will be a real boy," she promises, recruiting the wandering cricket Jiminy (Cliff Edwards) to be his conscience. Pinocchio (Dickie Jones) wants to do well, but his utter innocence soon gets him into trouble. First hes dazzled by the tales of "Honest John" the neer-do-well Fox (Walter Catlett) about the charms of the theatrical life and sold to the puppetmaster Stromboli (Charles Judels), who sees him as a cash cow ("the only marionette...completely without the aid of strings!") and imprisons him in a birdcage. When the Fairy frees him, he again falls in with John and is hustled off to Pleasure Island, where "stupid little boys" can indulge themselves in food, tobacco, beer, pool, dice, fighting, and destruction to their hearts content--but at a price: they transform into donkeys and are sold as such by the sinister Coachman. Escaping with Jiminys help, half-transformed, he makes his way back to Geppettos shop, only to find that the old man and his pets have gone off to search for him and been swallowed by the infamous sperm whale, Monstro. Now the two must venture under the sea to search for the missing ones.
Though not as musically rich as some Disney films, this one still includes at least two memorable numbers ("An Actors Life for Me" and the classic "When You Wish Upon a Star"). The kitten Figaro is among the best animal characters of the studios long history--sometimes jealous, sometimes affectionate, and sometimes a mirror of Geppettos moods. (Watch for his kitten-sized bed and high chair.) And Pinocchio and Jiminy, once they get on the same page, make a formidable team. The undersea sequences are to my mind the highpoints of the movie, though Pleasure Island comes in a close second. And while it isnt a fully accurate adaptation of Collodis original The Adventures of Pinocchio, its still a recognized classic and one that every kid should see.
 On: 2009-12-01
The one I bought at a premium price was advertised as being new and sealed. It was from an affiliated store with Amazon.com The seller went by at least 3 different names and one was ?"Milano". What I recd was a pirated piece of junk. When I complained, the crook said he made a mistake and would replace the video but that I should not tell Amazon that I had been sent junk. I never did get the promised video from that crook and so I stopped ordering anything outside the Amazon.com system for a long time and I still do not like the idea of ordering outside the system. I guess the only good thing to come from this is that the pirating crook did not get ahold of my credit card info because he probably would have stollen my identity and run up my bill.
On: 2009-11-17
I remember watching this movie as a young lad. As all of Disneys early films, it "enchanted" me. I purchased this film and watched it again just recently and happily found it just as good if not better then I remembered it as a child. This story has very strong moral values about being honest and telling the truth and the consequences we will face if we choose to do whats wrong. With beautiful animation from the "golden days" of Disney, this classic tale will charm and warm your heart for years to come!
On: 2009-11-16
I explored the BD-live feature for the first time last night, and most of the functions require registration on Disneys site. On Disneys site an FAQ asserts that those features are being discontinued, and account creation is no longer possible. WTH? This disc was only released 8 months ago, and the much-heralded BD-Live features that personalize your disc and experience are already outdated.
For what its worth, I just bought UP (released last week), and the BD-Live features from Disney appear to be nothing but downloading trailers for other films ... four of them. My verdict on Disney BD-Live => total waste of time.
On: 2009-10-26
A brilliant film for the time it was made. A milestone film for its time.
On: 2009-10-08
Although this film is a classic and one of my favorites, I particularly loved the bonus material included in this package. The "deleted scenes" the "alternate ending" and other material make this a well-worth purchase for any film buff or persons interested in Disney and animation. Its one of the best from that golden age of classics and still holds up against the newer computer generated disappointments out there these days.
On: 2009-10-07
It has been over 20 years since I saw this movie in a theater and I was anxious to see how the visuals and storyline on DVD compared to my memories of it back then. It did not disappoint.
The rich colors and clarity of the movie are impressive. By having the opportunity to watch the movie on a DVD media, I was able to better appreciate the detail and effort contributed by the artists in the creation of the movie.
The added feature "Making of Pinocchio" gives a look at some of the people who helped contribute to the artwork, character voices, and musical scores.
Despite the computer driven technical advancements made in animation features, Pinocchio still retains its high position of excellence.
On: 2009-10-05
The detail that went into restoring this movie is excellent. It is very crisp, clear and clean. I have read other reviews about how some of the colors looking more digital than original version shown in theaters, but this is a digital movie. And unless youre a purest, youll never know or care. Its a great revision of a classic movie.
On: 2009-09-25
This is a great old favorite, but after being forced to watch a series of advertisements before ever getting to the movie, it took some of the enjoyment away from finally watching the film. The fact that you cant even fast forward through the promos each time the DVD is watched is beyond frustrating. The 3-star rating applies to the DVD in its entirety and not the film alone (which by itself rates higher). I should have listened to other reviewers who also complained about this same issue. Too much hassle to return, so Im keeping it. Live and learn I guess.
On: 2009-09-18
This is one of the most celebrated Disneys masterpieces. One who collects Disney classics should have this movie.
On: 2009-09-14
This is an absolute gem of a movie. I loved it as a kid and I love having it to show to my kids now as a parent.
Its a timeless story with timeless values. Jiminy Crickets "When you Wish Upon a Star" is still a great song.
Make sure you keep the legacy of this movie alive by showing it to your children or grandchildren. Theyll love it too!
 On: 2009-08-24
This was undoubtedly Disneys finest work, however the 1999 "Gold Edition" of Pinocchio is a disappointment. Not only was this transfer taken from unrestored film elements but they optically enlarged the picture to fill a 16:9 HD screen. By changing the original 1.33:1 aspect ratio to 1.85:1, they managed to cut off the top and bottom of the picture, resulting in a very grainy image.
With no extras other than the original theatrical trailer, my question is: What qualifies this to be a "Gold Edition"? My advise is, pay a few extra dollars and get the newest edition, its worth it.
On: 2009-08-16
Its amazing that this animated movie created in 1940 without computers is still one of the best looking movies made. The hand drawn quality adds a beauty that computer animation just cant capture because its too perfect. The element of the hand, chance, that personal touch is what helps create the magic of these early Disney movies. Plus it helps to have a great story like Pinocchio. Whatever version you have, the movies the main thing and is highly recommended.
On: 2009-08-16
My niece was so happy with this flick that she actually watched it 5 times before she called (via mom) to thank me. Definitely a success with the 5-year old crowd.
On: 2009-08-09
After renting the Pinocchio 70th Anniversary edition, I came to Amazon to purchase my own copy. I was extremely saddened when I read Jon Olivans dire revue (the very first review and supposedly the most helpful):
"BEWARE PURISTS--this Digitally Restored version TAMPERED WITH ORIGINAL ARTWORKS COLOR PALETTE!!!"
So I purchased the Limited Issue instead (used) from Amazon, because I wanted to see it as close to how Walt envisioned it as I could find. After watching it, I could hardly believe how bad the transfer was compared to the 70th Anniversary edition. The colors were dull and the detail was gone and there were scratches and other artifacts. I then bought the 70th Anniversary edition. It is far superior.
Here is a web page which shows side-by-side comparisons of a frame from the cage scene mentioned in the review:
[...]
I also do not believe the 70th Anniversary edition is the "Thomas Kinkade-ing" of Pinocchio as another reviewer wrote. And it is NOT garish-it has lots of subtle shading. I am not a fan of Thomas Kinkade. I am a fan of all things Disney, and this version is spectacular. It is the very essence of Disney. You will be charmed from the first moment it starts.
Dont let some expert discourage you from getting this DVD. Its too bad his review is all the way at the top. By the way, Pinocchio was locked in Strombolis birdcage and not Geppettos birdcage as the expert wrote.
If you dont own the 70th Anniversary edition, get it while you can. It is a masterpiece.
On: 2009-08-03
Visually, the re-mastering on this classic Disney animated feature is flawless. However, in terms of audio, there is a minor problem -- a few lines of dialog are missing! During the musically number "Give a Little Whistle" Jiminys line "Right!" and his warning "Look out, Pinoke!" are absent. I realize its a minor mistake, but it irks me just the same that, for all the care that went into the restoration of this classic, somehow someone missed this error. For that I have to leave off one star, because every time I watch my new Blu-ray disc of Pinocchio I notice whats missing.
On: 2009-07-29
It may have been the first film I ever saw in a theater...Mom took me to see it when I was quite young, and I was totally engrossed and in love with Pinocchio by the end of the film. This video is a wonderful reminder of that viewing nearly 60 years ago. It is a beautiful rendering of the original film, whether it is true in all ways (color variance or whatever) to the orginal or not. I love it.
On: 2009-07-07
The movie was in fantastic condition (better than I was expecting). It was delivered with the quickness. I would definitely order from this seller again--very reliable and honest.
On: 2009-07-04
The DVD played fine without any skips or errors. I have not seen this in over thirty years. Its a good old classic from Disney. My memory might be old but I seem to recall certain scenes seem to be shorter or not there. Oh well, engineers have to play too I guess. Now if Disney would get off their rear ends and release " Song of the South" Thatd be a feat.
On: 2009-07-04
Love Disney movies and love this story. Have added this to my growing collection of Disney movies.
On: 2009-06-30
The title explains it all. This is definitely one of Disneys MUST HAVES if you are at all a fan of Disney, cartoons and animation.
On: 2009-06-16
I would highly recommend this to anyone with a Blu-ray Player. The blu-ray players are cheap now and Disney does it right. You get a Blu-ray version which looks amazing, even on this old movie, thx to restoration efforts from Disney. They include a regular DVD copy (which ALL blu-ray should!!!!) and a digital download copy for your ipod or w/e. Its a great value, 3 versions in one. Just dont forget they all have expiration dates on digital downloads so use it when you buy the movie, lol.
On: 2009-06-14
Old lonely Geppetto builds a marionette or puppet, Pinocchio, and wishes on the Evening Star that he had a real boy. The star, which is really a fairy, hears his wish and grants the public life however, it is still made of wood. It must prove itself worthy to become a real boy. Because Pinocchio was made of wood, he does not have an internal conscience and is assigned Jimmy Cricket as his conscience.
We follow Pinocchio through his trials and tribulations, misjudgments and antics. Will he be able to prove himself worthy, or go awry?
This film was made back in the heyday when Disney could do no wrong. It also was before Disney decided to become politically correct and had agendas other than entertainment. So why was it so boring? Well he was just walking through the motions of the story. Disney did fluff that outfit will do it with the addition of some new characters. It is worth watching the DVD extras to see why he did this and what effect he was trying to accomplish. However, in the process he made quite boring presentation. The characters were not believable, the background depth was nil and the purpose of the story is convoluted. However, on the positive side, especially watching Blu-Ray, the color and sound quality is excellent. The animation is top notch. In addition, there is no underlying political agenda or attempt to be socially correct.
The theme song for this movie "When you wish upon a star" became
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + BD Live w/ Blu-ray packaging) [Blu-ray]
On: 2009-06-08
Always a classic. You can never go wrong with these kind of movies. Disney is the best.
On: 2009-06-03
It has been so long since I last saw this movie. I distinctly could remeber Pinocchios family, the puppet master, pleasure island & the boys turning into donkeys then the whale. But I forgot all the happenings that occured on pleasure island, the smoking & drinking made me laugh when I watched this movie again.Definitely a keepsake & just upset it took them so long to release it on DVD.
On: 2009-05-29
I first saw this movie when I was a child many, many moons ago and fell in love with it. A true classic that has held up over time. You and your kids will love it, too. If you are a Disney fan (or even if youre not) you HAVE to get this movie.
On: 2009-05-28
This is the film with the classic song "When you wish upon a star". After watching this my 3 year old is now constantly looking out for the wishing star!
On: 2009-05-26
The item was received within days. The corners were a little bent, but it was like described.
On: 2009-05-17
All of the disc were NOT in the case.But I was fully refunded..And Very,Very satisfied with that..thank you and that will NOT effect any future purchases from Amazon..Amazon stands behind their word " 100% Satisfaction OR A Full Refund"....Thank You again...Rosie Davis
On: 2009-05-16
This movie is a true classic if you would like to purchase a movie that you know the kids will enjoy by all means purchase this one. This movie has a great storyline to it and it is all about this puppet who really more than anything wants to be a real boy so the story starts by the puppett maker Gepetto wants to have a boy of his own so then the blue fairy comes down and brings the puppett Pinocchio to life and then Pinocchio then has someone who is like his conscience to him his name is Jiminy Cricket and the blue fairy makes him his conscience to guide him on the straight and narrow and to help teach him about being a real boy but then Pinocchio has to learn the hard way about right and wrong and Pinocchio and Jiminy cricket have some interesting advntures with the whale Monstro and then Pinocchio and Gepetto his father are swallowed by the whale and then are able to get out and then they get back home safe and sound and then at the end Pinocchio is turned into a real boy after saving his father Gepetto and the rest of the story is great and they of course they all live happily ever after. So I highly recommend this DVD for adults and kids this is a really great one and also this story teaches about lying and telling the truth and what happens to Pinocchios nose when he tells a lie. Enjoy this DVD when you get it, This is indeed a true classic.
On: 2009-05-16
Pinicchio is a movie I grew up watching, and is still fun to view with my kids today.
On: 2009-05-14
Great movie...but if you are expecting a coupon for a free childs fare from Amtrak as they have advertised on their websight....dont bother...it is not there and Amtrak claims no responsibility and will not compensate
On: 2009-05-14
Can a 2 1/2 year old really love this movie as an adult would...???
I think my grandson does!!!
On: 2009-05-13
This DVD was purchased for my four grandchildren ages 9, 7, 5 and 2. The 9 and 7 year olds watched it continuously for five viewings and enjoyed every minute. The 5 and 2 year olds only watched it one viewing at a time, but were more than ready when it was time to see it again.
Having seen the movie when it was first brought out by Disney, I felt it was reproduced well so that younger generations can enjoy this truly clasical film.
On: 2009-05-10
I remember getting this movie at age 4 (back when there were VHS tapes and when Nightmare Before Christmas was going to be in theaters) and watching it constantly. But the only two things I didnt like about it was the Coachman (who still scares me btw) and Monstro the whale (this started my phobia of whales).
Now in my early 20s, I decided to watch it to see if Ive gotten over my fear. I had mixed feelings on getting a copy of this movie on dvd because of the Politically Correct Parents in the world might ruin it (no smoking, no drinking, no Jiminy Cricket saying his jack+++ line). But I heard from people saying that everything was kept the way it was (thank god).
I bought a copy of the movie and it was more beautiful than I remembered. As soon as you hear Jiminy sing When you wish upon a star, I felt I was 4 years old all over again. The art was magnificant and the storyline was wonderful.
Anyone wanting to show their child a classic Disney film, go for this. This classic film is much better than the newer stuff like the over-rated Madagascar, the very bad Space Chimps, or anything by Pixar (to me, CGI has no beauty in it, I call it the lazy way of animating). Trust me, this movie has no toilet humor.
Enjoy!
On: 2009-05-05
First up in my 4 part revisiting of some of those Disney classics, Pinocchio. Adapted, apparently by about 7 or 8 people (a part of the credit that boggled my mind), from the writing of Italian writer Carlo Collodi and directed by Hamilton Luske & Ben Sharpsteen Pinocchio is, without a single doubt, one of the most beautifully animated films of all time and is certainly numerous pegs above todays animation in any regards from the main action in the frame or the backgrounds (which are actually a bit more phenomenal than most of the main animation.) The one moment of note is the encounter with Monstro; a lot of people see this as truly frightening, akin to the creeping moments of Jaws, but I simply found it a spectacle to behold.
So, with that said, the animation is beyond brilliant....the story, however, is, unfortunately, bordering in some kind of disgusting.
Its no secret that Disney hated Communists and despised basically anyone who lived outside of American societal norms ( he actually refused to allow Hitchcock to film in Disney because Hitchcock had made "that disgusting movie Psycho") so, the fact that Pinocchio is a mouthpiece of the Mousey Fuhrer to spout out his morals and ethics isnt a shock.
Pinocchio is created by Geppetto, a lonely wood crafter (and possibly an alcoholic: look at those red cheeks and nose, theres no way he doesnt regularly hit the sauce: that and he goes out of his way to pet his fish; seriously? Petting a fish? Yikes, settle down Jack Daniels.) When he heads to sleep he notices a star and makes a wish that his newest creation could be a real boy.
In enters the Blue Fairy, a pillar in the argument that not only is Geppetto an alcoholic but also a homosexual, or some kind of man with such a degree of misogyny that he feels the only good women are for is bringing little kids, more particularly little boys, to life. She brings the wood boy to life, but only to a degree; hes still wood and in order to become a real boy, or to become a real human being, he has to listen to his conscience; not something Pinocchio himself forms, but something thats bestowed upon, in the form of Jimini, him by this grandiose woman.
Pinocchio must learn to resist temptation, this involves fighting the urge to not go to school in pursuit of other endeavors, smoking cigars in Pleasure Island and, this is one that caught me off guard and made me exclaim in its absurdity: playing pool (we all know how horrid this activity is.) In order to become a real boy, again a human being, he has to be able to differentiate between animalistic decadence, which would turn him into a donkey (an Jackass, GET IT?!) and the ability to hold back, to show some kinds of restraint.
He also must show courage (which involves literally tossing himself off of a cliff to save the alcoholic who made him) in the vein of selflessness; so, risk your life for the sake of others; great message, Walt, good stuff. Thats what the world needs, more "pure" Christian garbage.
On: 2009-05-05
Great Picture and Sound, the extras are great too. A piece of history in the movie industry.
On: 2009-05-04
I was in a hurry to get my order, and it came well ahead of schedule. The movie was sealed and just as it was advertised. I couldnt ask for anything better.
On: 2009-05-03
I had bought two DVD on Pinocchio. One for me and the other for my great niece whose birthday is coming up.
I enjoy watching the movie. I hope my great niece will too.
On: 2009-05-01
This is a top notch piece of software for anyones BD catalog. This movie is quite beautiful and it is a piece of cinematic history being the 2nd Disney film behind Snow White.
Picture:
Being that the animation standards for the 30s are very different from todays the animation in this film is superlative. The color palates are great and it really jumps off the screen in 1080p. Just as I was amazed with Sleeping Beauty on BD this is another great movie that they restored beautifully. I always remember this being longer but it was really good to see it again.
For the people that complain about the aspect ratio 4:3, Disney went so far as to get a great artist (cant remember his name off the top of my head) to fill in the black bars on the sides of the picture with art related to the current scene so it looks very showcase like and doesnt take away from the show at all.
Sound:
There are few companies out there that are using the best codecs for sound with their BD releases. Lionsgate and Disney are the two that really stand out to me.
7.1 DTS-HD MA is beautiful and if you have a decoder (receiver) and the speakers to do it I would recommend nothing less than listening to it this way. You can hear everything and it just makes this movie that much better.
For the purists the original score and soundtrack are still on the disk and you can watch it that way too.
Special Features:
There are a ton of features here about how it was made, the restoration, alternate endings (sketch art) and a lot of others. If you really want to sit down and learn about how this classic was made they will explain it to you. It even talks about Disneys editing process and how he analyzed every single aspect of this movie to put out his best product. It probably drove everyone crazy that worked on this but when you arent the boss what can you really do.
Overall:
This is a great value here on Amazon because you should pay the [...] bucks at least for this. I am glad I ordered this and I will continue to support Disney if they keep remaking the classics like this one. I cant wait for Snow White on BD. That is going to be sweet!
-fin
On: 2009-05-01
Very fast shipping and the product was exactly as described! Very happy with this purchase.
On: 2009-04-30
This DVD was as enjoyable as it was when I saw it as a small child. My grandson wanted to see it again and again and asked lots of questions. We had some good conversations following the viewing (at least 8 times in 2 weeks).
On: 2009-04-29
Pinocchio is feast for the eyes and the ears. The animation is the most perfect one that Ive seen in any animated movie. The characters are animated in a wonderful way and the backgrounds are just stunning. The story is great and unlike many would think, Pinocchio is a dark movie, a thing that I found even better because is not a "kid movie", is also for adults and that makes it more interesting.
The New Platinum DVD supprases in every aspect to the barebones Gold Collection released almost ten years ago. The digital presentation is perfect, without any dirt or grain and the colors are dazzling. The bonus material is really good two. The audio-comentary ir really interesting and the fun facts are very enjoyable. Of course also has its issues like that stupid musical video of When You Wish Upon a Star sang by a "star" of Camp Rock (a horrible movie).
Disc 2 is even better. The making-of documentary is excellent and talks about every aspect of the movie. Tha sweatbox is a real treasure that nobody should miss. the galleries are beautiful, the deleted scenes interesting as well the live-action reference. The Geppetto feauterette is enjoyable too. A welcome addition are the three trailers of the movie, a rarity in Disney DVDs.
As you can see Pinocchio is an excellent movie and with this excellent treatment everybody should buy it.
On: 2009-04-28
Welcome to the world of Pinocchio, the story of a marionette who is given life and wishes to become a real boy some day. The animation here is simple, but already more defined than that of Snow White (and only the second full length Disney feature). This is a beautiful, beautiful film - both visually as well as in the storytelling (and I dont say that about every Disney flick). You know the movie. Youd want it anyway, but this is the Platinum Edition.
So, whats up with the Platinum Edition? Two features, really. First, the Leonard Maltin commentary track. Thats always a positive. The real feature to get excited about, though, is the hour long Making of Pinocchio feature. Outstanding mini-documentary, that one. Seriously.
Also included are some deleted scenes, an extra song, and games for the kiddies. The adults will want this for the beautiful transfer, the commentary track, and the Making Of.
This is the way to watch Pinocchio. Along with Sleeping Beauty, this is a classic Disney film that should be owned.
On: 2009-04-27
I really enjoy purchasing this movie through Amazon. It cost me less than what I would pay at WAL-Mart, even with the shipping.
On: 2009-04-26
Very creative and easy for a child to read. It tells a story in pictures that are elegantly rendered.
On: 2009-04-25
great movie, with a good lesson to be learned about lying and what can happen.
On: 2009-04-25
It arrived in perfect condition and have not had any issues with the disk. Exactly what I would expect.
On: 2009-04-25
Theres not much to say about this product. Its Disney. What else is needed for a review?
I got this for my granddaughter, and shes all about all things Disney. She has every song memorized (which Im treated to each evening as we walk the dog), and half the dialogue from all the Disney movies. She loved the Pinocchio Platinum Edition, and would recommend it to anyone and everyone, especially to all her "butcher-movie" fan buddies.
On: 2009-04-24
The Blue Ray is beautiful! The colors and detail are excellent and the story is classic. The bonus material is also excellent in the making of Pinnocchio. GET IT!
On: 2009-04-24
I have waited many years to get Pinocchio on DVD. This was one of the last great classic movies to finally reach my home on DVD. I watched this as a child and my children (esp my sons) loved it. "MONSTRO" was a villian whale. They loved to cheer for Pinocchio as his "family" is finally freed and Pinocchio becomes a real boy for saving "Fathers" life.
My grandson is 3 1/2 and loves this movie and we watch it over and over. He has learned NEVER to trust a stanger and NEVER go off with stangers and thats a concept learned from this movie made 50 plus years ago!
I recommend this movie to everyone adult or child!
On: 2009-04-23
Pinocchio is considered by many to be the finest film from the Disney Studios, with not only the best artwork but also one of the most carefully crafted stories and the best musical score. Having spent the last two nights viewing everything on both discs in the Pinocchio Platinum Edition, I settled in to write a review. But first I read some comments, including the interesting and highly informed negative review that called into question the alleged tampering with the color palette. I have the 1999 Gold Edition as well as the new 2009 re-master. Having personally no way to know what the original colors were, I can only comment on a comparison of the two versions. Compared side-by-side, the 2009 re-master is breathtakingly better than the 1999 version: brighter, sharper, more detail particularly in the shadows, significantly fewer artifacts such as dust blemishes, and almost total lack of small jerking motions in still shots. I thought the 1999 version was wonderful, my favorite of the 84 Disney movies I own, but this new version is fabulous. I assumed, perhaps naively, that it must be closer to the viewer experience of a new print in 1940. Regardless, it is wonderful, and will be enjoyed by virtually everyone fortunate enough to see it. Dont be discouraged by the negative comments, even if they happen to be factually based. This new edition also offers interviews, original artwork archives and other special features of interest to film history buffs, and in fact when I ordered the Platinum Edition I was really ordering it for the "extras", thinking another copy of the film would just be a bonus. But it turned out the other way around: the re-mastered film is beauty to behold, and an experience to treasure.
On: 2009-04-23
I bought this for my niece and she loves it also. I am SO happy there is a DVD version is with this Blu-Ray so she bring it in the car with her.
On: 2009-04-22
What a nice DVD set! In my view this is Disneys best animated movie, at least until WALL-E. Its scary, and has some adult themes, but those elements give it great replay value. The extra features are good, especially the commentary.
On: 2009-04-20
The Blue-ray version is beautiful to behold. Youll spend half the movie marveling over the sights and sounds of this presentation. Then settle in to the simple tale of the wooden boys quest to be human.
Disney is one of the few studios that knows what to do with the blue-ray format. Much care is taken at every step. Youll want to set aside an hour or two to explore the extras.
Highly recommended for blue-ray owners.
On: 2009-04-19
Just as wonderful to watch now as it was when I was a little girl. Now my little girl gets to enjoy it! She loves it and has watched it many times. Beautifully done.
On: 2009-04-19
Item being reviewed
Pinocchio (Two-Disc 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition + Standard DVD+ BD Live) [Blu-ray]
Great product and beautiful enhanced version of a Disney classic. DH
On: 2009-04-19
This is another movie that I ordered for the same relative. They dont own a computer, so they arent able to order those good movies that you cant find in a video, or department store. Im sure they are enjoying this movie. They would have let me known if there was a problem.
On: 2009-04-19
Disney Studios reached their peak with Pinocchio. The level of detail is just phenomenal, and Blue Ray really showcases it like never before. The extra features are also very well done.
On: 2009-04-18
The whole package is just wonderful. Clear and bright. Much of the commentary is so insightful. But the restoration and the overall look and feel of this dvd is just beyond what I had expected. And it is such a good movie. Of all the Disney movies, I am of the mind that this is, arguably, the most finely detailed animated feature. I have not taken advantage of all the extras but am looking forward to doing so. And Disneys addition of a regular non-bluray disc (and Amazons discount) makes the few dollars extra more than worth the price. This is a keeper.
On: 2009-04-18
This film transfers beautifully to Blu-Ray format, and is representative of how animation was created in the Golden Era. I am hoping this means we will get more Classic Disney animated films in the future. I can rattle off a lot of techno speak, but this film is a major romp in the old style.
On: 2009-04-17
Great Movie! I remember watching this when I was a little kid, and my 4 year old loves it. Quality is good.
On: 2009-04-16
When I was a kid, I loved this movie so much I wore out two VHS copies of it, even though Monstro scared me silly. But watching it again now more than 15 years later, I have to wonder what I found so special about it. I cant really describe it, but I just feel so "blah" towards it now. Monstro is still pretty frightening, but thats the only part of the movie I like anymore. Maybe it is just me, but this movie is not as good as many of the others Disney has done.
On: 2009-04-15
The movie is a timeless classic and being able to purchase it from Amazon was wonderful! Because Im a customer of Amazon, just one click of the mouse made purchasing this item quick and easy. Im very satisfied with my order and will definitely purchase through Amazon again! Much thanks!
On: 2009-04-14
If you collect disney movies it is a must before they put it back in the "vault" story line a little too mature for my three year old, she loves Jinmy the cricket and the fairy, but she may enjoy it more later on
On: 2009-04-14
It brought memories of the movie I saw when I was younger. I loved its message.
On: 2009-04-14
"Pinocchio" may be the best film that Disney gave us and this DVD version is as good as it can be. The drawings are magnificently detailed and the memorable music is excellent. No film collection should be without it.
On: 2009-04-14
Ill even out the review with a 3. I cant argue with the movie, obvious classic.
The Blu-Ray however is worthless. There is nothing inherantly special about the Blu-Ray. At least Sleeping Beauty is widescreen. The same picture and sound can be had on the DVD version. Dont waste the extra money on the Blu-Ray.
Im not expecting Horton Hears A Who in picture and sound quality, obviously there are constraints on taking an old movie and trying to make it into Hi-Def. However, there appears to have been no effort put in to distinguish the Blu-Ray from regular DVD, other than the price and maybe a few features that most people dont even use.
On: 2009-04-13
This review is for Disneys seventieth anniversary re-release of their classic telling of the 1883 story by Carlo Collodi. It was actually released on February 7, 1940, making it only sixty-nine years old. This release comes with a DVD version, which I watched, plus a Blu-Ray edition and a digital edition.
An elderly toy-maker, Geppetto, in a small village, has spent his life bringing happiness to children by making beautiful toys. He has no children of his own, but has carved and put together a wonderful marionette-puppet, Pinocchio. One night, the Blue Fairy decides to reward Geppetto by giving Pinocchio the chance to become the son Geppetto always wanted. Pinocchio is able to talk and to move without strings and, if he can prove himself, he will become a real boy. When he lies or misbehaves, though, his nose grows.
The movie shows us Pinocchios adventures in the world, his quest to become a real boy, and his many setbacks. His gullibility and impulsivity lead to many problems, often aided by unscrupulous, exploitive adults, like Honest John. He also gets separated from Geppetto and must find him. Along the way, he is aided by Jiminy Cricket, a talking cricket who strives to act as Pinocchios conscience.
The animation in this film is excellent, given that it was only the second full-length feature for Disney. Its luscious backdrops and colorful characters presages the greatness to come, in later features like Bambi. The movement of the characters is very fluid. Monstro, the whale, was quite a monster for an animated childrens film.
I am slightly uncomfortable with the several instances of unconditional and unearned praise that are portrayed in the movie. Pinocchio, in the end, did earn the reward he received, but his many mistakes along the way are pretty much overlooked. Jiminy Cricket also did his best, but he was not an exemplary conscience for Pinocchio, as he was eventually labeled. I am, in principal, uncomfortable with children being given unconditional and unearned praise. It does not boost their self-esteem, as some purport, but leads them to see praise, even when it is deserved, as meaningless, and it causes them to be confused about what the standards and expectations of others really are.
After doing some on-line research, I saw evidence that this Disney version definitely simplified the original story, as do most movie adaptations of books. Pinocchios origins were omitted, as there was a history to the log from which he was carved by Geppetto. The personality of Geppetto was changed to make him more amiable. The story-line of the marionette theater was altered, to remove the role of the other marionettes, and the owners motives in capturing were altered. The entire subplot involving the fox and the cat was changed, giving the fox ("Honest John") a different role and one entire scam was deleted. The Blue Fairy, in the original story, was The Fairy with the Turquoise Hair. The whole Monstro story-line is different, and several other story-lines are omitted from the movie.
If Disney had left in all the omitted sections and not made the changes, the resulting movie would have been a true work of art, but it also would have been too long and probably too dark and scary for a childrens film. Disney, by that time, was already developing a reputation for making clean, wholesome, feel-good films for children and families to watch. A film of Pinocchio that was faithful to the original story would not have fit the evolving Disney image.
The movie that Disney did make from the Pinocchio story is a colorful, rich, occasionally mildly scary fantasy-adventure that will please even the most imaginative children. Of course, it does have a Disneyesque ending, and it gave us Jiminy Cricket, one of Disney most liked and enduring characters.
-- Chris McCallister, author of Coming Full Circle
On: 2009-04-13
So happy they brought Pinocchio to blu-ray, beautifully presented in High Definition! If youre like me, and need to buy all the Disney blu-ray movies, this one will not disappoint.
On: 2009-04-13
Product was shipped in a timely manner. What a great movie. I cant wait until my son is old enough to watch this with me.
On: 2009-04-13
wonderful, for children to watch, My grandchildren, received it instead of candy as Easter gift. Hope they will like it.
On: 2009-04-12
If I were to prioritize all of my favorite Disney movies from favorite to least favorite, I am afraid "Pinocchio: would be down on the bottom third of the list. Yes its a classic and the songs, especially "When You Wish Upon A Star" are timeless, but this morality tale doesnt hold a candle to other Disney greats such as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", "Peter Pan", "Alice in Wonderland", and more modern titles such as "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast". Of course its much better than "Brother Bear" and "Treasure Planet".
To be honest I found the first third of the movie quite charming. I love the opening scenes in which Jiminy Crickett is watching Geppetto interact with Cleo the Fish (my favorite character in the movie), Figaro the cat, and of course, the lifeless puppet Pinocchio. A lot of love and detail went into the art direction of Geppettos home and watching all of his wooden works operate is a treat.
My problem with the movie is once the Blue Fairy shows up and makes Pinocchio come to life. After Geppetto sends Pinocchio off to school the whole thing becomes episodic. There is the Stromboli section followed by the Paradise Island section followed by the Monstro the Whale section, and of course there is Honest John showing up every now and than to temp poor Pinocchio and get him into trouble. Yes I know this is based off a story but I think the best Disney features are the ones with one main villain (Yes I know Alice in Wonderland lacks a central villain but all of the characters are interesting and fun to watch).
Now the blu ray quality here is fantastic but unless you are 13 or under you probably wont have any use for the bonus material. This movie is Walt Disneys second animated picture and while it doesnt have the fun or charm of "Snow White" its still a classic and if you are a collector of all things Disney its worth owning. Its just not great compared to the others.
On: 2009-04-12
I saw this movie when I was about six or seven years old and seeing it now as the restored version it is much like I remembered. The difference is, now that I am older, I see the moral of the story and the object lessons it teaches. Too bad a lot of the "kids" movies out today do not do the same. This is pure Disney and will remain a classic for as long as there are kids with imaginations.
On: 2009-04-12
What can I say, Pinocchio is a classic. I had it on VHS for my kids, now it is time to get the Blu-Ray for my grandkids.
On: 2009-04-11
Delighted with my purchase. Really love it. Takes me back to my childhood.
On: 2009-04-11
This has always been a great kids movie but on blueray the picture is so vivid that it just jumps out at you.
On: 2009-04-11
I havnt enjoyed a kids movie this much since I was a little girl. I could watch it over and over. I love this movie and it actually has something to say to our children. The special features were excellent too. This is a wonderful movie for all ages. I am in my 50s and I am enjoying it more today than when I was little.
On: 2009-04-10
When I - and I assume, most people - think of Pinocchio, we think of his nose growing longer when he tells a lie. Yet, that is only one scene in this movie - the first one ever done on this famous fictional character, I believe.
This is strictly a fantasy-adventure story, not a parable or a full story about lying, although that obviously is one of the messages. There are several moral messages in here, so its a worthwhile story for kids to see.
Sometimes I think these totally-innocent first few Disney efforts (Bambi, Fantasia) are still better than most the stuff they have put out since. Its nice to see this on a fantastic Blu-Ray disc. Its amazing what Disney is doing on Blu-Ray with spectacular detail and bold color restoration. First, "Sleeping Beauty" and now this.
Those colorful scenes are another attraction. particularly in the beginning in the old mans house with all the fancy clocks and toys. That part is better than much of the adventure story, as it turns out. The story lags a bit in the middle and then picks up with a rousing finish with a big whale.
Overall, I enjoyed "Jiminy Cricket" the best and also appreciated that they didnt overdo the songs in here: short and sweet, and not that many. This is good stuff!
On: 2009-04-10
I bought this for my friend to give to her grandaughter for Easter. She is excited to put this in her Easter basket.
On: 2009-04-10
This movie is a classic and one that I enjoyed as a child growing up. The xtras on this set make it even more endearing for young and old alike.
On: 2009-04-10
I dont care about it looks. I thought that was fine, I put it in for my 4yr old to watch one day. Then I sat down with my 4&8yr old only to find out ol Jimmney Crickets animated mouth says, TWICE "Jack A$$". I swear I about fell out of my chair! Yes I know he turns into a donkey, but come on...its rated G! Oh, and also there is a nice PSA before the movie talking, not about how smoking is bad for you, but if you wanna quit theres help out there. Because we all know 4yr olds who light up and wanna quit! Im stuck with this movie which I thought would have a moral theme of doing the right thing, only to have to explain why Pinocchio is smoking in a pool hall and the Cricket is a foul mouthed sailor.
On: 2009-04-09
I purchased this movie from Amazon.com for several reasons. This was an easy way to shop, I hate shopping in stores. This was a great price, shipped very quickly, was new, sealed and my granddaughters loved it. I just keep checking amazon for all products before going out of my home. Thanks!!!!
On: 2009-04-09
"Pinocchio" the two-disc 70th anniversary Platinum Edition comes with lots of bonus features that make the purchase of this new DVD release [especially for the price offered here on Amazon] value for ones money.
The classic and timeless tale of a puppet, Pinocchio who learns the value of honesty, hard work and courage in his journey towards becoming a real-life boy has been in our collective consciousness for decades, as are the unforgettable strains of "When You Wish Upon a Star". In this latest digital restoration, the colors are vivid and brilliantly restored, bringing the classic tale to vibrant life on screen to be appreciated by old and new fans alike. All I had before this was the old VHS tape, and my 4-year-old was used to the grainy quality of the animation, but now we can both delight in this wonderful film in all its animated glory.
The actual feature runs about 88 minutes, and there are many other additional bonus features. Theres:
An all-new "When you wish upon a Star" music video performed by Meaghan Jette Martin
Pinocchios Puzzles Game - 18 puzzles in a multi-tiered game
Pinocchios Matter of Facts - Trivia
Never before seen deleted scenes and alternate ending
All new "Making of Pinocchio"
The Sweatbox - Walt Disneys Artistic review Process
Pinocchio deleted song: "Honest John" [audio only]
All in all, this is a value-buy for fans of "Pinocchio".
On: 2009-04-09
The Two-Disc 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition was a great hit for my 11 year old grandaughter. She has watched it several times in the last week. Its a great buy and gift. Masterfully reproduced on disc.
On: 2009-04-07
This new DVD set is wonderful. The second disc contains all kinds of additional fun things. Im especially grateful for Amazons low price guarantee which saved me an additional $1.00.
On: 2009-04-07
The two disc set arrived on time and as advertised by the company. My grandchildren enjoy the movie very much.
On: 2009-04-07
This is one of my favorite Disney movies, and, even though I had an older copy of this movie on an earlier DVD release, I knew I had to have this one on 2-Disc DVD with all the extras. This movie is a must-have for your Disney Movie Collection.
On: 2009-04-07
I have never seen Pinocchio before, and I have a 2 year old son. So I bought the movie and popped it in before his bed time, and he sat like an angel and watched the whole movie! I enjoyed it also. It was very touching, especially since I have a son! . PLEASE see this movie by yourself or with the children.
On: 2009-04-07
I purchased this for myself. I have seen the tale of Pinocchio many times and always enjoyed it. The colors are so vibrant and sharp a far cry from years ago. I know the grandkids will be loving it too.
On: 2009-04-07
Its a great improvement over the DVD version. Highly recommend it. Looks great and the sound is in 7.1, cant beat it.
On: 2009-04-06
The move was excellent and great I like how they to puzzles on the other DVD I like that it had the puzzles on the DVD
On: 2009-04-06
How can you not love the classic version of Disneys Pinocchio. The platinum edition has a bunch of extras and enhanced quality. It felt like I was 8years old again, and watching it in the movie theater. A must buy for any Disney animation fan.
On: 2009-04-06
I was shocked when some of the other reviews said it tampered with the picture and distorted the colors.... It does nothing in the least! It is absolutely beautiful!! The sound is amazing! The picture is detailed and i find it fantastic that they have the technology to take a film the use to be in some senses blurred or distorted and turned it into a Blu-Ray picture unlike any other!
The Extras on here are awesome as well including an Alternative Ending that Walt Disney himself proposed !
Definitely a buy if you have children... OR... if you plan on having children within the next 10 years I would buy it anyway because it is going back in the Disney Vault in a few weeks and wont return for years after!!
On: 2009-04-05
Still a classic. My kids loved it (6 & 3) and it was fun to watch myself for all the memories it induced.
On: 2009-04-04
A classic fairy tale from Disney with a wish on a star, that takes you really far. Jimney Cricket gets his debut as a conscience for a wooden puppet. He has no idea what he is in for when he applies for the job. Full of fun songs and good morals to follow. My favorite is "a lie will grow and grow, until it is as plain as the nose on your face".
On: 2009-04-04
"Pinocchio" is generally considered Disneys masterpiece. Visually theres no denying it. Its nothing if not lavish, in a way that no other animated film has duplicated (though "Fantasia" and "Bambi" approach it). The underwater scenes inspired the filming of "The Little Mermaid", though it doesnt come within light years of its inspiration.
Ive been waiting for an opportunity to criticize "Pinocchio", as it epitomizes what was so /wrong/ with Disneys approach to story telling. Disney wasnt afraid to show things that frightened - even terrorized -- children, * but he backed away from confronting serious dramatic issues.
We see this thoughout "Pinocchio". It starts when Jiminy Cricket starts to explain the difference between good and bad, right and wrong. Instead of a terse, focused explanation, he fumbles and bumbles. ("Fumfers" might be the apt word.)
Why? Because a "straight" explanation wouldnt be "entertaining". That was one of Disneys rules -- "Make it entertaining". And entertaining didnt include a serious discussion of moral or social issues.
It wouldnt have been difficult to add weight and meaning to Jiminys explanation, without turning him into a film-stopping talking head: "Whats bad? Whats wrong? Its when you think only about yourself, when you put what /you/ want ahead of whats right for other folks."
This is hardly a deep discussion of the matter, but it covers a great deal of human history! And it more-clearly sets up the conflict between what Pinocchio wants to do and ought to do.
This backing-off occurs again, near the end, when Gepetto asks Pinocchio about his ears and tail. Pinocchio coyly refuses to answer, instead of saying "I was punished for being selfish and bad". Isnt being truthful one of the requirements for becoming a real boy?
"Pinocchio" has other problems. Of The Big Five, its the most poorly paced. Though the opening sequence spends a lot of time introducing the characters (as it should), there are a few sections where Id like to yell "Get on with it!". Ditto for Honest Johns examination of Pinocchios health, which does little to advance the story, existing mostly for its visual humor. It was a great day at Disney when a talented writer (Linda Woolverton) was hired to write coherent scripts.
We now come to the issue of the quality of the Blu-ray transfer. Some people have condemned it, arguing that the new edition is a gross distortion of the original film. (There is a lengthy discussion attached to Jon Olivans review; those interested in this issue should read it.)
I have both the 1993 LaserDisk and the new Blu-ray edition. Both are billed as "restorations", but the latter looks completely different. While the LV version has a generally warm, "artistic", "Old Masters" look (almost certainly what Disney wanted), the Blu-ray (and DVD) have lost most of the warmth, and have been cleaned up to the point of occasionally looking "sterile". **
Then there is the matter of saturation. Though the actual hues arent any different, almost all colors are brighter and more vivid. Disney did not want a lot of bright colors in his animated features, so we can be reasonably sure this was not his intent. The 2009 editions colors are more like those of an animated short subject. The stills at the beginning of the Amazon page for the Blu-ray disk give a pretty good idea of what it looks like.
The cause of this change is not clear. Some of it is likely due to the direct transfer from the original three-strip Technicolor negatives (though I believe the same system was used with the 1993 edition). It might also be a conscious tampering, to make the film more appealing to the presumed tastes of the viewers.
Regardless, its highly likely that the Blu-ray disk /does not/ represent the artistic intent of the films creators. If you have an earlier edition of "Pinocchio", I wouldnt toss it. And the new edition has its own pleasures, including the ability to see the magnficent background paintings in all their glory. And they are pretty glorious.
* When his daugther asked why Bambis mother had to die, he told her "Thats the way nature is." Fifteen years later, hed softened to the point where he let Peggy Lee talk him out of killing Trusty in "Lady in the Tramp".
** Which is not to deny that the earlier edition sometimes looks downright grundgy.
On: 2009-04-03
whats not to like about these disney classic? the only two bad movies they hae ever made were home of the range and meet the robbinsons, besides that all are just magnificent.
On: 2009-04-03
I really expected more from a Blu-Ray release. Though the PQ and Audio was as good as you can get for a film thats been released for almost 70 years. I was very disappointed with the film not being able to fit a widescreen TV and would have to include side curtains to cover the side borders.
On: 2009-04-02
Disney rereleases the film that taught us all to wish upon a star. I am not old enough to have seen Pinocchio in theaters, instead I first experienced it on VHS as a child in the nineties. I never considered it a favorite back then compared to all the newer releases (Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, Aladdin) but the story certainly stayed in my mind. Certain scenes always stayed with me, like the first entrace of the blue fairy and her granting Pinocchio life, the scene where the cruel Stromboli tricks Pinocchio into working for him only to lock him in a bird cage, then the frightening scenes of Pleasure Island, the boys turning into Jackasss and the final scenes with Monstro the whale. This film had quite an impact on me and only watching it in its restored magnificence on this DVD was I truly able to see that.
The film obviously looks great with animation that holds up better than any we see today and can be compared to the greatness of that found in the Disney films released in the nineties. For me personally everything found on this DVD looks and sounds truly amazing. I cant believe how much more I love and appreciate this film watching it again now.
The special features are great for fans who grew up with Disney providing interesting history about the film and the Disney Studio itself. All DVD commentary tend to be informative but when I decided to try listening to this one I found it to actually be quite entertaining too, probably because the three film buffs they have commenting show a love for the film that matches most fans, they really love this film. The featurette discussing the making of Pinocchio had a lot of archival footage and it was interesting to see how what was supposed to be Disneys third film became his second and the stages that went into making it what it was. On top of all that there is certainly a lot of fun features for children to enjoy like interactive games, Trivia and a new Music Video for When You Wish Upon A Star. All very fun and entertaining features with a little something for fans of all ages.
In rewatching this classic piece of animation the quality to be found here in Walt Disneys second released masterpiece truly rivals that of any Disney masterpiece released since. This was a magical experience and only in watching it so many years later can the true quality put into it become as clear as the nose on our face. 5 stars, without a doubt.
On: 2009-04-02
Disney rereleases the film that taught us all to wish upon a star. I am not old enough to have seen Pinocchio in theaters, instead I first experienced it on VHS as a child in the nineties. I never considered it a favorite back then compared to all the newer releases (Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, Aladdin) but the story certainly stayed in my mind. Certain scenes always stayed with me, like the first entrace of the blue fairy and her granting Pinocchio life, the scene where the cruel Stromboli tricks Pinocchio into working for him only to lock him in a bird cage, then the frightening scenes of Pleasure Island, the boys turning into Jackasss and the final scenes with Monstro the whale. This film had quite an impact on me and only watching it in its restored magnificence on this DVD was I truly able to see that.
The film obviously looks great with animation that holds up better than any we see today and can be compared to the greatness of that found in the Disney films released in the nineties. For me personally everything found on this DVD looks and sounds truly amazing. I cant believe how much more I love and appreciate this film watching it again now.
The special features are great for fans who grew up with Disney providing interesting history about the film and the Disney Studio itself. All DVD commentary tend to be informative but when I decided to try listening to this one I found it to actually be quite entertaining too, probably because the three film buffs they have commenting show a love for the film that matches most fans, they really love this film. The featurette discussing the making of Pinocchio had a lot of archival footage and it was interesting to see how what was supposed to be Disneys third film became his second and the stages that went into making it what it was. On top of all that there is certainly a lot of fun features for children to enjoy like interactive games, Trivia and a new Music Video for When You Wish Upon A Star. All very fun and entertaining features with a little something for fans of all ages.
In rewatching this classic piece of animation the quality to be found here in Walt Disneys second released masterpiece truly rivals that of any Disney masterpiece released since. This was a magical experience and only in watching it so many years later can the true quality put into it become as clear as the nose on our face. 5 stars, without a doubt.
On: 2009-04-01
Great value getting all 3 versions in one for the low price of fourteen bucks!
On: 2009-03-30
There is no doubt, in my opinion, Pinocchio is still the best of all of the Disney films. It is ageless. From 3 to 93, people still love this fable with a moral story. Thanks Disney for releasing it. My grandkids 6, 5 and almost 3 loved it as did their parents and me too.
On: 2009-03-29
Pinocchio, is a classic film. The film is a great tale of right and wrong.
I have read some of the negative reviews. I think they are off target in their critiques of both this DVD edition and of the film itself.
This DVD edition has some great extra features. The video and audio are excellent. It is a must buy for any fan, old and new, of any age.
"Let your conscience be your guide."
On: 2009-03-27
I think this is one of the best animated films ever made. Considering when it was made it may be one of films greatest achievements. Not even Snow White has the detail, texture and range that this one does. Maybe none of them do. To me this is the one that Disney himself had his fingerprints all over in every way. It comes right after Snow White which changed the game and gave the confidence to go further. And it comes before thing like the war, television projects and the theme park got more and more of his time.
On: 2009-03-26
This movie was sent to me perfectly. We enjoyed the movie and give amazon 5 stars, the original price was 19.99 and when the movie was sent it turned out to be cheaper. Great product.
On: 2009-03-25
A couple of years ago the American Film Institute named the Top Ten American Animated Films. The top three were SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS, PINOCCHIO, and BAMBI, in that order. But I thought then and I believe now that this was simply wrong. I understand why SNOW WHITE was placed first. It was the first feature length animated film and as such created an entire genre of films. And in recently rewatching the film I was struck at the very many things that are still very interesting in it. But to watch SNOW WHITE you get a strong sense that it was from a different period in time. It feels extremely dated and, frankly, many parts of it has not held up very well. And while it was brilliantly animated, it is vastly less impressive than either PINOCCHIO or BAMBI. If you take away its historical importance as the first of a new genre, it simply is not anywhere near the movie that these other two films are. I strongly believe that PINOCCHIO and BAMBI should have headed the list. Moreover, in assessing the greatness of these two films, you dont even need to qualify them as "animated films." They are simply great movies, period.
Some critics have taken issue with some plot alterations in PINOCCHIO, but apart from that it is close to impossible to quibble with any other aspect of the film. The animation set the standard for anything else in the genre that came after. The music is arguably the finest not merely of any Disney film, but any animated film ever done. The voice acting -- especially that of Cliff Edwards as Jiminy Cricket -- is beyond reproach. Unless one favors alternative story directions, this is a movie that is pretty close beyond criticism. And unlike SNOW WHITE, it is as fresh today as the week it came out. There is a timelessness to the music and the great Academy Award winning song "When You Wish Upon a Star" is easily the greatest Disney song ever, to the point that it has become the offcial Disney theme.
As a child I was as moved by PINOCCHIO as any film that I saw. Jiminy Cricket was among all my favorite childhood movie characters, matched perhaps only by the Scarecrow in THE WIZARD OF OZ. And two of the scariest moments of my childhood (scary in a good way) came from the film, the first being the horrific moment when Lampwick, after spouting ears and tail, turns back to look at Pinocchio with the face of a donkey. The second was Monstro. Everything about Monstro terrified me. As a very small child I had seen a bit of the fairly mediocre movie version of MOBY DICK starring Gregory Peck as Ahab. The image of Moby Dick destroying the ship at the end was branded into my memory and as a result all movies featuring large fish were for me the apex of horror, something brought home as an adult when I saw JAWS for the first time. (I experienced a series of nightmares as a 4 or 5 year old of the shadow of Moby Dick haunting the walls of our house.) For me, Monstro was Moby Dick on steroids.
Personally, I think the changes made in the Pinocchio story were both warranted and desirable. If you have read the Collodi stories, Pinocchio is a completely unlikable brat. As they point out in the "making of" documentary, the original stories were serialized and were essentially a string of tales of the trouble Pinocchio would get himself into. As a reader, much of the enjoyment you are supposed to derive (though I have to confess I did not) is from seeing the messes he got himself into through his wrongdoing and foibles. In the Disney version, the title character is made a tad less central to the story, made much sweeter and more likable, and the cricket is elevated to a vastly more important role, to the point where he becomes the films main character. The result is that we actually care about what happens in the film to Pinocchio, whereas in Collodis stories we pretty much feel that Pinocchio deserves any grief that comes his way.
One of the featured reviews criticizes this release for tampering with the color palette. If true (and Ive no reason to doubt his statement to this effect) this is disturbing. But even if true, does this in any way impede ones enjoyment of the film? I have to be honest and say that it does not. The film looks so bright and vibrant on an Up-Conversion DVD player (I have the DVD version, not the Blu-ray) that I was enchanted every second. On a psychological level it is mildy bothersome to know that the palette has apparently been changed, but on an experential level it makes no difference. Unless one has a spectacularly gifted eye (as a professional animator presumably has) one will certainly not notice differences in colors. This version looked better to me than any Id seen in the past, though I will confess that the most recent previous version I saw was the reissued VHS tape from the early nineties. The experience of seeing this version is not in any way to be compared, say, to the colorized versions of classic Hollywood films from the thirties or forties that were originally made in black and white. Those to me were always monstrosities, since they were intended to be seen in shades of gray.
Issues of palette aside, Ive been extremely impressed with the last several Disney reissues of classic films. The feature films themselves have been a delight, but Ive gotten just as much enjoyment from the many special features that have been added. The bonus features try to be all things to all potential viewers, with games for small children that I simply skip, but also a number of documentary and archival features that adults will love but that kids will want to miss. If you have read any books on the Disney studios (such as Neal Gablers recent exceptionally fine biography WALT DISNEY), it is a delight to see behind the scenes footage of all the legendary Disney animators and artists. The commentary, which includes film critic Leonard Maltin, who has made no secret of how much he is a fan of the Disney studio products, is both informative and entertaining.
It is easy to overlook just how influential this film has been. Compared to SNOW WHITE and BAMBI, it has had a far greater impact on the larger culture. Most people know of Pinocchio not through Collodis stories, but through the Disney film. And in the larger culture Pinocchio figures in countless stories and characters. For instance, novelist Robert Coover wrote PINOCCHIO IN VENICE, in which he goes to Venice as an old man (btw, a thoroughly unlikable novel). In STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION, the android Data is based explicitly on Pinocchio, both in that he is supposed to bear some resemblence to him and in that he aspires to be truly human. The Steven Spielberg film A.I., based on the Brian Aldiss short story "Super-toys Last All Summer Long," is a retelling of the Pinocchio story. In Bill Willinghams absolutely brilliant FABLES series of comics, Pinocchio features as a major character (though one who is bitter that while he was made a real boy, he was made a perpetually preadolescent one). Not only that, but Willingham uses Gepetto in a fascinating and unexpected way. (FABLES, by the way, is currently being developed as a series for ABC. The pilot is being filmed in New Zealand and hopefully will be taken to series.) There are countless other uses to which the story has been put to use, so that Pinocchio is truly one of the constant features of our culture. And the main means of spreading that story has been for nearly seventy years this great Disney film.
Finally, while I have the two-disc DVD version of the film, I would strongly recommend that anyone interested in the film get the version that contains both the DVD and the Blu-ray versions. Not many studios are offering films in this kind of packaging, but it is a great bargain. Even if you dont have a Blu-ray player now, it is probable that they will become more prevalent in the future. But whatever format, this is one of a handful of great animated films that anyone who loves movies should own. I give it not only a strong recommendation, but a passionate one.
On: 2009-03-24
More than 10 years after I last saw it,and it still made me feel like a kind again. The picture in this BD makes Pinocchio look its best ever. Disney seems to have done a wonderful job remastering it frame by frame. My only quibble is the fact that the bd version only includes english sountracks, while the free dvd version included in this set brings along french and spanish(my first language). Even though Disney View is good for plasma TV owners, it is also a bit distracting so I rather watch it with black bars since the movie was originally shot in 4:3.
On: 2009-03-23
I remember "Pinocchio" as being the first Disney movie I ever saw, although a half-century later such memories might be suspect, although I am pretty sure that the main thing I remember walking out of the movie theater way back when was Monstro the Whale. My main impression this time was that the animation is rougher than I recalled. Of course this makes perfect sense, because this 1940 movie is the first full-length animated film that Disney released after "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," although the studio was working on "Bambi" at the same time. But in my mind I had the level of animation being more akin to what we see in "Cinderella." But compare the level of animation here with "Steamboat Willie," the first Mickey Mouse cartoon, and you can see the quantum leap that Disney had already taken in the field. When the American Film Institute did its "Ten Top Ten" lists, "Pinocchio" was number two on the list after "Snow White," a judgment that reflects the monumental historical importance of that first cartoon movie, because judged by creative standards "Pinocchio" is the superior film.
Watching "Pinocchio" again and going through all of the bonus features on this 70th anniversary Platinum Edition DVD served to reinforce the idea that Walt Disney was a genius, a fact that needs to be driven home to those generation of Disney fans who have been born after his death and do not remember him hosting "The Wonderful World of Disney" on Sunday nights. The two things that stood out to me where the fact that when Walt took that first big gamble with "Snow White" (critics the colors are too bright, they will hurt peoples eyes to watch a cartoon that runs an hour), he already had his new two animated features in the pipeline, and that he insisted the songs in his movies move the story along. Both of those ideas are taken for granted today, but you have to put things in the context of the times. Walt Disney is the Moses who gets animation from "Gertie the Dinosaur" to the latest computer animated effort from the folks at Pixar. The mantle might have been passed, but lets not forget who the person responsible for the mantle.
Kids might like the Games & Activities included on the second disc in this set and may even recognize Meaghan Jette Martin, who sings the updated version of "When You Wish Upon a Star" in the requisite music video (Sorry, nothing tops Cliff Edwards as Jiminy Cricket singing that particular song). For me the attraction is all of the Bakcstage Disney materials, with the Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scens and Alternat Ending, the All-New "Making of Pinocchio" featurette and the proverbial "Much, Much More!" From the start, these Platinum Editions from Disney have been designed to cater to those of us who want to be more than casual fans of these classic full-length cartoons. When they began putting these out the gold standard in DVD extras were the Criterion Collection films, but these Disney Platinum Editions routinely exceed those efforts. We would be happy just to have this film on DVD, but Disney is committed to preserving its legacy by treating these classic films like cinematic heirlooms. I have not seen a Disney Plantinum Edition that was not worth owning, and if for some reason you felt compelled to limit yourself to only five of them, then "Pinocchio" would have to be one of those five. Actually, I think if you only had one of them, this would be the one (although "Beauty and the Beast" would admittedly be my close second).
On: 2009-03-22
It has been many, many years since I watched Disneys PINOCCHIO. Today, my husband, 3 ½ year old daughter, and I sat down to watch the 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition, and we couldnt have been more delighted. The story of PINOCCHIO is timeless, and this anniversary addition could not have been lovelier.
PINOCCHIO is the perennial tale of the wooden puppet who wanted to be a real boy. To become a real boy, the Blue Fairy tells Pinocchio he must prove himself to be brave, truthful, and unselfish. He has lots of bumps and misadventures along the way, but in the end, with the help of his conscious, Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchios wish comes true.
My wee one was absolutely entranced by PINOCCHIO; her eyes were riveted to the screen. She was completely absorbed in the story. I have to admit, her daddy and I were, too. Disney did an outstanding job on this restoration. The colors are luminous, vivid, and awe-inspiring. The music, well, the music brings a tear to your eye as you remember the words and melodies. Songs include the classic "When You Wish Upon A Star," "Ive Got No Strings," "Give A Little Whistle," "Hi-diddle-dee (An Actors Life For Me)," to name a few. The sound is beautifully remastered, and every note is pure. And Jiminy Crickets voice will fill your heart.
It is interesting to discover after not seeing this movie for over 30 years, that the myth of PINOCCHIO has become greater than the sum of its parts. For example, as we all know, PINOCCHIOs nose grows longer and longer each time he tells a lie. This is perhaps the quintessential lesson of PINOCCHIO. But this event is on small part of one single scene, yet it is everyones greatest memory of this movie.
As another note, all of the voice acting is uncredited in this film, including Mel Blanc and Cliff Edwards, who went on to voice Jiminy Cricket for many, many years.
I am so glad it I was able to share this movie with my child. It was a wonderful, lazy family afternoon. PINOCCHIO is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
On: 2009-03-22
WTF mate! Pinocchio is one of the best Disney accomplishments so i would presume the Blu ray would bring it justice...however we civilians are denied the right to view this masterpiece in its 1080p full-screen or wide-screen glory we are forced to view Pinocchio with black side bars because some genius wants everyone to view the movie the "Right" way (a 1.33:1 ratio) rather than the natural 16x9 ratio of our TV)...apparently no one told the Disney staff there was plenty of room on the disk to have the full-screen, wide-screen, and this blu ray studio first "Disney view" I recommend the movie based on its value as a masterpiece but this new found idea called "Disney View" is quite upsetting and will probably ruin the lovely Snow white! soon to be released btw
On: 2009-03-19
Pinocchio is largely hailed as one of Walt Disneys most masterly creations, and one of the all time great movies, period. The animation is astonishingly fluid, evocative and filled with true character. The music has set standards that are still used today, including the use of an electronic instrument for a magical effect. The story is unforgettable -- and pretty scary in spots.
As the generous bonus material explains, it was not a huge success in its initial release and several reasons are speculated upon. I would venture that it is also more of a "boy" story than a "girl" one, and Disney has always had better luck with the more romantic animated features. But who knows. Its certainly earned its keep by now, many times over, and comes to DVD and Blu-Ray disc in a new multi-disc edition.
A friend of mine with a Blu-Ray player highly recommends this version (you mean YOU dont have a Blu-Ray Player??") The image is spectacular, as it was in the Sleeping Beauty Blu-Ray, so much so that you can even make out the painters brush strokes!
If you get the Blu-Ray version, you still get a standard DVD with the Audio Commentary by Leonard Maltin and master animator Eric Goldberg. Its as knowledgable and interesting as you might expect, though I do wonder whehter the claim that Mel Blancs only Disney work was the omitted voice of Gideon -- isnt he Cousin Orville in the Carousel of Progress, or is that J. Pat OMalley?
Anyway, you do not get the second disc in standard DVD format unless you buy the standard DVD package, so the choice is up to you depending on your need for extras and if you are looking to transition to Blu-Ray.
One little piece of trivia not found anywhere on the discs: you can hear a few notes of the deleted song, "Three Cheers for Anything" in the scene in which the boys sail for Pleasure Island. Our way of saying thanks for readiing this review!
On: 2009-03-17
Disney has done a masterful job with this animation masterpiece. The video and audio presentation are flawless and the film itself is a timeless, beautifully crafted piece of art. A must have for any video library.
On: 2009-03-16
Released in 1940, PINOCCHIO was the second full-length animated film to be released by Walt Disney Studios. Nearly a decade ago PINOCCHIO was also the first feature that Disney released on DVD. The movie is now be re-released again in this re-mastered Platinum Edition.
The plot of the film is rather familiar. An older toy-maker named Gepetto makes a marionette that he names Pinocchio and upon the wishing star wishes that Pinocchio would come to life and be a real boy. The Blue Fairy hears Gepettos wish and brings Pinocchio to life. However, he is told he cant be a real boy unless he proves himself to be good. The Blue Fairy makes a cricket named Jiminy Pinocchios conscience to aid him in his journey to becoming good and a real boy. Pinocchio soon gets into one mess after another and eventually finds Gepetto again in the belly of the giant whale Monstro. The adventure there illustrates to both the boy and his father what each is made of.
Next to THE FOX AND THE HOUND, PINOCCHIO was my favorite Disney picture. Years later, it still remains a favorite. The film has some very dark and frightening images, e.g. the Coachmen revealing to Honest John and Gideon how the children who go to Pleasure Island never come back, Lampwick turning into a donkey, the chase from Monstro, etc. I remember being afraid of these images as a child and until I got to college always assumed the earlier Disney pictures were truer to their source material than their modern counterparts. After first reading the original story, I discovered this really wasnt the case. Still, though the film isnt as dark as the original story, it retains much of the spirit and imagination of the original story.
Besides that, the movie is a magnificent piece of filmmaking. Even by todays standards the animation is impressive. Considering the film was made in the late 1930s and was released until 1940, the film is even more impressive. For example, the water effects in the movie were the standard that all great animated picture attempted to emulate and wasnt surpassed until Pixars 2007 RATATOUILLE. And despite all the advances in animation, PINOCCHIO still remains as part of the canon that serious animation students study.
The movie also has some great characters. Theres of course Pinocchio, his loving father Gepetto, The Blue Fairy, Jiminy Cricket, Figaro the cat, and Cleo theGoldfish, Stromboli, Honest John and his sidekick Gideon. Each of these characters is unique and though they appear somewhat cartoonish, they each have an individual personality that people can recognize and relate to. They capture the imagination and allow for suspension of disbelief, inviting viewers into their vivid, yet harrowing world.
Besides the story, animation, and characters, PINOCCHIO is also notable because of the music. PINOCCHIO was the first animated film to win an Oscar in a competitive category; PINOCCHIO picked up statues for both Best Original Score and Best Song. It was a feat that no Disney picture would repeat until the arrival of MARY POPPINS in 1964. Besides the awards, "When You Wish Upon a Star" became the anthem of the Disney empire. Dreams really can come true.
Besides the beautifully re-mastered film, the Platinum Edition of PINOCCHIO includes a nice set of extras. The film is found on disc one along with an audio commentary, Pinocchios Matter of Facts, Pinocchio Knows Trivia Challenge, a Disney Song Selection, and a music video of "When You Wish Upon a Star" sung by one of the Disney Channels latest teen sensations, Meghan Jette Martin.
Disc two has the majority of the special features including two games, the "No Strings Attached: The Making of PINOCCHIO" featurette, deleted scenes, "The Sweatbox" featurette, live action reference footage, art galleries, trailers for PINOCCHIO from three different eras, the deleted song "Honest John", and the short documentary "Gepettos: Then and Now". I especially liked the featurettes and the short documentary. One of the games is a puzzle game that younger children might enjoy, but the other game, "Pleasure Island Carnival Games", is a game aimed at elementary kids that will only work on a DVD player. The featurettes are very informative, full of information that any serious Disney buff or film buff will enjoy. For instance, I didnt even know what a sweatbox was before watching that featurette; now I know its a room where animators and the director and producer meet to review unfinished clips of the film and how they can be improved. "Gepettos: Then and Now" showcases toymakers from around the world from a maker of classic wooden toys in England to a marionette maker in Prague to a robot maker in Japan.
On: 2009-03-16
I think this is the first cartoon that I saw at a movie theater many, many years ago and its still just as good as I remember it. Jiminy Cricket takes you through the story and the music which youve heard over and over again throughout the years, like, "When You Wish Upon a Star". You can get the movie with a limited edition bonus CD with 7 classics songs here: Pinocchio (2-Disc 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition) with Bonus Music CD Its wonderful to see and hear it again. All the characters that you remember like Figaro the cat and Cleo the goldfish, along with Gepetto, Stromboli, The Blue Fairy are there. And if youve forgotten the details of the story you can now watch it again in this digitally enhanced version.
I bought this DVD for my two parrots because they like cartoons and kids movies. But truth be told, its really for me too. Its fun to watch this again and a nice addition to my (their) collection.
On: 2009-03-16
Writing recently on human conscience, Catholic commentaor Thomas Williams defined our "still, small voice" as a coach shaping and guiding us toward better decisions and higher ideals. "Conscience urges us to climb higher," he writes, "according to the gifts received and the real possibility of doing good."
Generations met this gift through Carlo Collodis beloved "Pinocchio," a marionette granted the gifts of life by his creators wish upon a star and conscience through a witty, resilient cricket Walt Disney later named Jiminy. Collodis serialized story of a toy becoming a boy through following his conscience to unselfishness and bravery, is arguably Disneys (and by extension, film animations) greatest achievement. Its justifiably celebrated in this new 70th anniversary 2DVD set, with vivid, detailed print and soundtrack and a series of enlightening extras.
"Pinocchio"s characters and songs have defined Disneys mission (and not just from "When You Wish Upon A Star" being the company unofficial theme or Jiminy among its many goodwill ambassadors.) When elderly woodcarver Geppetto wishes his wooden toy to become a real boy, a blue fairy grants Pinocchio life and knights Jiminy as his conscience ("Give A Little Whistle") and companion. Overjoyed, Geppetto sends Pinocchio to school where hes sidetracked by fox and feline villains "Honest" John and Gideon. They tempt him first with fame (singing, "Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee," as they walk him to evil, funny showman Stromboli) then, when hes rescued, by pleasure and destruction to the Coachmans Pleasure Island. There Pinocchio, his Bowery Boy-ish friend Lampwick, and other waywards trash the island and their own lives by "behaving like jackasses," in some of Disneys most frightening, moving animation. Throughout, Geppetto (with beloved fish Clio and cat Figaro) searches for his kidnapped son until they battle an angry sea and its most fearsome creature to survive.
"Pinocchios" legend includes Walt Disneys painstaking commitment to its quality. The results testify it doesnt stem from infamous company salesmanship. Documentaries (including one on the "sweatbox" where Walt critiqued his animators daily work) describe how Collodis often irascible puppet became Disneys lovable child struggling with temptation. Jiminy transforms from the storys moralistic critic into the storys center, friend and coach looking much like his voice (then well-known recording artist Cliff Edwards). Legendary actor Mel Blanc, a 40s superstar for his work on "Looney Tunes" and Jack Bennys radio show, finds his speaking role reduced to yelps as "Honest" Johns evil sidekick Gideon becomes a Harpo Marx-like comic mute.
Purists may argue for the 1940 originals muted tones, but this new DVD presents a deeper, more vivid experience than any in Disneys classics library. Disney used the then-new multi-plane camera to provide near 3-D depth to scenes in the village and in Geppettos shop (especially in its first scenes). Its color palette seamlessly eases from muted yellows at the sunset cliff scene to brackish seawater as Pinocchio and Jiminy dive to save Geppetto, reaching dangerous, even more detailed scenes seeking mighty whale Monstro. The film and its remastering reward repeated viewings.
Pinocchios extras run from illuminating ("making of" documentaries, theatrical trailers, missing songs and deleted scenes) to interesting (a charming feature on modern puppetmasters and toymakers, "real-life Geppettos" ) to disposable (a cute childrens puzzle game, Meghan Jette Martins needless teenpop rendition of "When You Wish..") But its Disneys storytelling skill and umatched visual gift which turn Carlo Collodis moralistic tale of forming conscience into an endearing story of maturity and friendship. Simply one of the most essential films, animated or otherwise, ever made and this being the best means yet to own it.
On: 2009-03-14
I have seen Pinochio only once before in my 53 years of life, and that was at an outdoor showing in a tent waaay back in 1980, on Long Island, with about 500 other people, on a 16mm projector.
Fast foreward to March 11th, 2009, and my 26 inch LCD home theater...
Although Im legally blind, I still have my ears, and a very limited amount of vision in one eye, so I can see tv if I sit very close to the screen.
It was like discovering an old, lost friend.
The movie was as fun and scary as I remember it.
Especially the Pleasure Island sequence.
Yes, and I still hate the Coachman. Even though he has only a small bit of screen time, to me, he is the most vile and evil villan ever created by the Disney animators, making even the White Queen seem like a nun.
" Oh, they never come back... AS BOYS!"
One of the most terrifying scenes ever put on animation or live action.
Its a pity that you never see what happens to Honest John and Kitty. They were fun villans, and I sort of hoped that they would have lived a long, ragtag life.
Anyhow, its a sheer joy to have this finally in my collection.
On: 2009-03-14
Ive anticipated the release of Pinocchio for such a while that I read the "reviews" posted her before there was a blu-ray product to review. After viewing, I feel compelled to respond with my first ever internet review. Before discussing the quality of the blu-ray rendering, I think its instructive to address the cel versus computer animation "question".
Six years of my early life were spent in 35 mm special effects cinematography. Since then Ive taught sciences where Ive used a hobby of computer animation to create instructional materials. This hobby grew into creating and teaching a course in computer modeling and animation.
Two main technical aspects differentiate cel animation (Pinocchio) from computer animation ala Pixar, Dreamworks et al. In computer animation, its possible to texture a surface whereby, processing power permitting, as much fine detail can cover a surface as desired. And with the application of a "tag", this detail can be affixed to the surface in such a way as to deform with the character. Furthermore, again given sufficient processing power, surfaces can be made with smooth enough curvature to allow for incredible range in the gradients of reflected lights. This amount of detail and attenuation of light is simply not, in realistic terms, possible with cel animation.
Secondly, in computer animation the dividing line between a character and the background is not a line at all but a sharply delineated boundary. In traditional cell animation, characters usually have drawn silhouettes of finite thickness.
So, if youre viewing blu-ray Pinocchio expecting the eye-popping sharpness and color gradations of Ratatouille or Wall-E you might be disappointed. For example, an examination of the blue fairy wont show much in the way of facial structure such as cheekbones and the silhouette is anything but distinct. Of course, much of this is intentional in the blue fairys case, helping convey her ethereal quality. But check out the eyes and immerse yourself in the whole package. Shes still the quintessential magical mother figure she was for me when I first saw Pinocchio in 1950. My wife, substantially younger, remembers it the same way from a later generation.
Once past the sharpness and textural differences from that in CA, youll note a richness in color in Pinocchio. This is especially evident in many backgrounds where, not bound by the constraints of needing to animate from frame to frame, more textural detail can be used. The hand painting, beautiful pastels and use of shadows make this well worth the wait for blu-ray.
As far as the CA vs. cell debate, Ive long awaited the advent of CA. Ill buy Nemo on BD the day its released. I think John Lassiter is an incredible talent and has made entertainment a happier place. Its hard to match a unforgettable character like Dory. And I think I must have laughed every ten seconds through Shrek 2.
In my opinion, the only thing additional Pinocchio offers is magic. But dont ask me, ask my almost four year old niece. She is a product of several trips to the theater as well as a plethora of animation DVDs at home. We viewed Pinocchio after a long awaited sleepover last night. She was mesmerized and declared it "the best". It was what she woke up talking about at 5 AM this morning. We watched it again, in its entirety, before dance class. But from now on, we save it for special occasions as opposed to watching snippets here and there.
On: 2009-03-14
I forgot the last time I have seen Disneys PINOCCHIO. I think the last time I saw the classic animated film was when I was still a child. I recently had the opportunity to view Disneys platinum edition of PINOCCHIO. Because it has been such a long time since I last saw the film, I cant really compare the animation with the original version. That said, the story of the puppet coming to life and wanting to become a real boy is timeless. With the assistance of Jiminy Cricket, his conscience so to speak, Pinocchio learns the hard way right from wrong. Ill be perfectly honest, PINOCCHIO was never one of my favorite Disney films. It never struck a chord with me like BAMBI or SNOW WHITE did but at the same time I dont think it is a bad film. This just isnt my favorite Disney film. I personally thought Disney did a great job at digital restoration. The second disc consists of behind the scenes footage and deleted footage. I thought the alternative ending was quite fascinating. The younger audiences will definitely appreciate the games and activities more than adults. Overall the two disc 70th anniversary of this Disney classic is certainly one to own for families with young children.
On: 2009-03-13
Note: The review that follows is of the 70th Anniversary edition that includes Blu-ray and DVD discs.
I first saw Pinocchio soon after it appeared on movie screens in 1939 and have since seen it more than a dozen times. Based on Carlo Collodis childrens classic, it remains my favorite Disney animated feature, the first to be released as a DVD and is now available in both Blu-ray and High Definition, also for the first time. It has never looked better. The two-disc Platinum 70th Anniversary Edition supplements the 88-minute film with a wealth of bonus features that include never-before-seen deleted scenes, a never-before-seen alternative ending, the "Pinocchio Knows Trivia Challenge," "Pleasure Island Carnival Games," the "No Strings Attached" featurette on making the film, and an audio commentary by Leonard Maltin (film critic and historian), Eric Goldberg (Disney animator and director), and J.B. Kaufman (film historian and author). These bonus features are indeed special.
As is also true of so many later Disney animated features (notably Dumbo in 1941, Bambi in 1942, Peter Pan in 1953, and Beauty and the Beast in 1991), the film Pinocchio examines several themes that include a childs or childrens separation from loved ones, efforts to reunite them, serious (sometimes life-threatening) dangers to be overcome, lessons learned from all the struggles, and of course the happy ending. Of course, childrens reactions to Pinocchio will vary depending upon age. (My ten grandchildren range from two to 17.) Younger ones may become upset by certain scenes, as when the little boys on Pleasure Island become donkeys, but "children of all ages" - including parents and grandparents - will thoroughly enjoy the musical score as well as Jiminy Cricket whose voice is provided by Cliff Edwards. This is one of Disneys loveliest and most charming films. In a survey conducted by the American Film Institute in 2008, Pinocchio was ranked #2 among the ten greatest animated features. (Note: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was #1, then Pinocchio, followed by Bambi, The Lion King, Fantasia, Toy Story, Beauty and the Beast, Shrek, Cinderella, and Finding Nemo.) It will be interesting to see how the rankings change in years to come as other excellent animated features (e.g. Ratatouille, Wall-E, and Bolt) begin to attract more attention and appreciation.
I look forward to watching Pinocchio for many more years to come, hopefully with great grandchildren and their parents as well as friends. My guess is that, however technologically advanced our society has become by then, the magic dust of Disneys animated film classics will continue to be as potent as ever.
On: 2009-03-13
Walt Disneys PINOCCHIO is given a lavish restoration treatment in the 2-Disc Platinum Edition released in 2010. Not only does it look better than ever, but the extra features (including a great segment on "The Making of Pinocchio" and a feature on Live Action inspiration for the artists), are meticulous and informative. But, of course, the best news of all is that the frame by frame restoration brings the entire story to glowing life in a way that is absolutely amazing for a film that is seventy years old.
Its a famous morality tale from the pen of an Italian writer with all of the original material fine tuned by Disney to give it a softer image. All of the ingredients of the tale are beautifully realized by the Disney artists. Youll want to use the "pause" feature to gaze at the detailed and highly imaginative art work which has the kind of depth and dimension it never had before. You can really spot how artfully the Multiplane Camera was used to photograph cells and backgrounds. The village scenes and the interiors of Gepettos woodshop have a clarity that jumps from the screen.
Its no wonder the film has such lasting appeal. The characters come alive and make the story so much more compelling for their presence. Figaro the cat and Cleo the goldfish, along with Gepetto, Stromboli, The Blue Fairy--and most of all, Jiminy Cricket--all register strongly and draw you into the story from beginning to end. The voices are right on target, especially Christian Rub as Gepetto, Cliff Edwards as Jiminy Cricket and Dickie Jones, who is ideally cast as the voice of the little puppet.
The darker elements of the story may be disturbing for very young children so parents are advised to be aware of sequences involving the cruel puppet master Stromboli and the magnificently animated underwater scenes involving Monstro the Whale.
The busy musical background score won an Oscar for Best Original Score and the song "When You Wish Upon a Star" won for Best Song. These features are best represented by the films opening scenes in Gepettos woodshop where the various clocks come to life as the hour strikes, a charming sequence during which the art of animation reaches new heights, all with music playing an important part in plot development as Jiminy, Gepetto and Pinocchio interact after The Blue Fairy gives the wooden puppet life.
Disney gave him life too and this gorgeously animated film should have a long shelf life as long as people watch films decade after decade.
On: 2009-03-13
Every frame of this classic looks great. A must have for anyone who loves the Disney animated classics. You can pause this movie almost anywhere and be impressed with the Disney artists fine work. Great restoration. This movie has never looked or sounded better.
On: 2009-03-12
I was disappointed to see this latest restoration of the classic "Pinocchio" omits a line (a word, really) that Jiminy Cricket speaks during the song, "Give a Little Whistle":
Jiminy: "And if your whistles weak, yell..."
Pinocchio: "Jiminy Cricket!"
Jiminy: "Right! Take the straight and narrow path..."
The word "right" has been dropped on this newest edition of the film -- apparently inadvertently, as it has been present on every previous home video edition and on the original 1940 78rpm soundtrack of the film. Strange that here it is missing from both the stereo and mono channels on the Blu-Ray.
An earth-shaking omission? No... but this was supposed to be the definitive home video edition of this film. Its not.
Disney, who fell asleep at the switch? Nobody should be doing Q.C. for any of your classic releases who isnt intimately familiar with the films. Please fix this disc!
On: 2009-03-12
This film is such an amazing example of an animated film.
This is Disneys 2nd film, and it still holds up well nearly 70 years after its release!
The story is great, the animation is beautiful, and a work of art in itself...and the DVD does NOT disappoint!
After 2 really lame releases of Pinocchio, Disney gives it the Platinum treatment and it really is a must have!
I dont have a Blu-Ray player, but Ive heard if you have a Blu Ray player, that the Blu version of this movie is a MUST BUY!
This is a great film, with great morals that anybody from ages 1-100 can watch and enjoy!
Get this for your kids if they dont have it! Its a must have in any DVD collection and Im glad that Disney have finally put out a decent edition of this film! Im surprised it didnt come out sooner! But the wait was worth it!
On: 2009-03-11
Just got my 3-disc Blu Ray set today and I love it,beautifully restored and full of great extras,heck it even has a standard DVD of the movie so you can lets the kids watch it in the car!!! Actually I compared the two(Blu-Ray and DVD)they BOTH look incredible,of coure the Blu Ray does look a bit better of course!!! So if you like Pinocchio or want to get to know this timeless classic for the first time,get this spectacular 3-Disc Blu Ray package or if you dont have a Blu Ray player,there is alao a wonderful 2-DVD set as well!!! A TRUE DISNEY CLASSIC!!! Very Recommended!!! Two thumbs up!!! Way up!!! A+
On: 2009-03-11
I recently bought a Blu-ray player and for quite some time had been disappointed with my $300 purchase. Every Blu-ray disc I purchased was basically just a high-definition DVD and took little to no advantage of the new Blu-ray technology that was supposed to "revolutionize the way we watch movies at home"...then I picked up Sleeping Beauty and my opinion started to change. But while Sleeping Beauty hinted at the possibilities of what Blu-ray can and will do, Pinocchio has set the standard. Not only does this film look fantastic after (what had to be a) spare-no-expense restoration, but the Blu-ray is a completely immersive experience (packed with fantastic bonus features) that is just as much of a work of art as the original. This is especially true when you consider the detailed artistry that went into the fantastic "Disney View" presentation option, which adds new drawings by Disney artists to the left and right sides of the frame to fill the picture size of todays HD TVs.
And, while Ive never been a fan of Disney adding new "music videos" to their classic film releases, if these karaoke cover-versions attract a new generation to discover magical films like this one, then so be it.
On: 2009-03-10
Walt Disney Studios "Platinum Editions" of their most beloved films - classic and contemporary - have been a must - have for me. I am now reviewing the lastest title to get this status - the 70th Anniversary edition of Walt Disneys Pinocchio.
For a feature almost seventy, the film is presented beautifully. While another reviewer felt the film was digitally altered, I got the opposite feeling. Based on the layouts and backgrounds presented in the bonus features, I got the feeling the previous versions altered the color scheme.
For Audio options - Disney allows the viewer to choose between the Disney Enhanced Theater Mix - all 5.1 surround - English, French, or Spanish. Disney also provides the original Mono soundtrack used when the film opened in 1940. Disney restored the soundtrack well - except somebody forgot a bit of Jiminys voiceover during "Give a Little Whistle". Pinocchio sounds okay with a home theater system. The music and voices are easy to hear. The majority of the film is spread over the three main speakers - and not the surround, from my observation.
This edition of "Pinocchio" is a definite upgrade over the 2002 "Limited Edition" Disc. Bonus features, and a beautiful transfer rule out the washed out, grainy picture of the other.
On: 2009-03-07
Version: U.S.A / BVHE-WaltDisney / Region A
MPEG-4 AVC BD-50 / High Profile 4.1 / AACS
Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
Running time: 1:27:44
Feature size: 23,89 GB
Disc size: 30,58 GB
Total bit rate: 36.31 Mbps
Average video bit rate: 28.42 Mbps
DTS-HD Master Audio English 3446 kbps 7.1 / 48 kHz / 3446 kbps / 24-bit (DTS Core: 5.1 / 48 kHz / 1509 kbps / 24-bit)
Dolby Digital Audio English 192 kbps 2.0 / 48 kHz / 192 kbps
Dolby Digital Audio English 192 kbps 1.0 / 48 kHz / 192 kbps
Subtitles: English SDH, French, Spanish
Number of chapters: 25
#Audio Commentary with Leonard Maltin, Eric Goldberg and J.B. Kaufman
#Disney View : Enhanced viewing mode
#Pinnochios Matter of Facts
#Disney Song Selection
#Pinocchio Knows Trivia Challenge
#BD-Live: Disney-Live Network: Movie Chat, Movie Mall, Movie Challenge, Disney Movie Rewards Live
Blu-ray Disc-2
**************
#No Strings Attached: The Making of Pinocchio (HD - 55:58)
#The Sweatbox (HD - 6:24)
#Live Action Reference Footage (HD - 9:58)
#Geppettos Then & Now (HD - 10:57)
#Music Video: When You Wish Upon a Star with Meaghan Jette Martin (3:25)
#Deleted Songs (2:35)
#Never-Before-Seen Alternate Ending Deleted Scenes & Alternate Ending (10:23)
--The Story of the Grandfather Tree
--In the Belly of the Whale
#Pinnochio Art Galleries
#Pleasure Island Carnival Games
#Pinocchio Puzzles (HD)
#Sneak Peaks - Monsters, Inc. and Bolt (HD)
Disc 3 DVD
**********
Pinocchio with restored image and sound
On: 2009-03-05
A timeless classic that has been entertaining audiences for 70 years, Walt Disneys "Pinocchio" gets the High-Definition treatment and with Disneys classics on Blu-ray known as "reference" discs among high-definition fans, "Pinocchio" is the second animated film from Walt Disney to hit theaters (back in 1940) and the oldest Walt Disney animated film to be released on Blu-ray. This Blu-ray disc comes with two Blu-ray discs plus a DVD disc of the film.
VIDEO & AUDIO:
So, far the Walt Disney Blu-ray disc animated (as well as theatrical) releases are among the best in picture and audio quality.
With the 2008 Blu-ray disc release of "Sleeping Beauty" (1958) which definitely benefited from the High-Definition remastering and many videophiles putting it among their top 10 of "reference" Blu-ray discs for picture quality, "Pinocchio" (1940) is a much older release, this film presented in multiplane Technicolor just looks absolutely fabulous on Blu-ray.
For nearly a year, an expert restoration team digitally scanned 380,334 frames of four and half miles of 71 year-old film negative, cleaning 126,778 frames, realigning each scene, removing dirt, scratches and dust and matching colors to the original cels and backgrounds. The clarity of "Pinocchio" is just amazing and I was just impressed how clean the animation was.
From the details of the backgrounds to the vibrant colors used, picture quality was just spectacular.
And the audio is no slouch either as the audio is featured in English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio (48 kHz, 24-bit) or a restored original theatrical soundtrack. Of course, the film is primarily a dialogue based film but also a classic known for its music.
So, for those who have been enchanted with songs such as "When You Wish Upon A Star" to "Ive Got No Strings", fans of Disney composer Leigh Harline, Ned Washington and Paul J. Smith are going to enjoy how beautiful the music sounds on their home theater setup. The music from "Pinocchio" earned the film two Oscars in 1941 for "Best Music, Original Score" and "Best Music, Original Song" for "When You Wish Upon a Star" which would become Disneys anthem.
For those wondering if there are any audio tracks in any other languages, unfortunately there is not. Although the bonus features do include English, French and Spanish 2.0. The same can be said for subtitles featured in English SDH (for the film) and the bonus features in English SDH, French and Spanish.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
"Pinocchio" is just loaded with special features. Here is what is included:
Blu-ray Disc 1:
* "When You Wish Upon a Star" - An all-new music video starring Meaghan Jette Martin (Camp Rock) performing an all-new version of "When You Wish Upon A Star!" Obviously a version to bring any the younger listeners but really, nothing can beat the original version sung by Cliff Edwards.
* Pinocchios Matter of Facts - Learn fun facts about Pinocchio and other related subjects as you watch the movie.
* Optional Video/Audio Commentary - An all-new audio commentary with Leonard Maltin, Eric Goldberg and J.B. Kaufman. A very informative and also enthusiastic commentary in which the three discuss their feelings of the film, what scenes touched them and also some informative facts about the film. The optional video commentary allows people to have a picture-in-picture display in which you can watch the three discuss the film and then also some interviews with the original crew involved with the film.
* Disney Song Selection - This section allows the viewer to listen to the music portions from the film.
Blu-ray Disc 2:
* No Strings Attached: The Making of Pinocchio - Witness the behind-the scenes magic that transformed Carlo Collodis popular book into a classic animated film. About an hour long and very informative featurette about how the film cost Disney over $2 million to make but the film didnt do well in the box office until later as the music became a big part of Disney and people started to discover its technical, artistic and musical merit and having become a Disney masterpiece.
* Deleted Scenes - In the Disney vault, storyboards for deleted scenes and an alternate ending were found. Without spoiling any of these, the following scenes are:
- The story of the Grandfather Tree - Kindly Geppetto tells Pinocchio about the Great Pine Tree from which Pinocchio is descended.
- In The Belly Of The Whale - The most elaborate of Pinocchios deleted scenes that remain in the Disney Archives, these recently discovered storyboards reveal a different version of Geppetto inside Monstro.
- Alternate Ending - A recently uncovered set of small storyboard panels reveal plans for a different version of Pinocchio becoming a real boy.
* The Sweat Box - The Sweatbox was a small projection room at the Disney studio where Walt critiqued story reels, rough animation, and dailies of films in progress with his anxious artists. This piece traces the history of the Sweatbox and brings to life this important part of Walt Disneys artistic process.
* Geppettos Then And Now - A look at the art of toymaking as it has evolved into the 21st Century. A fun featurette showcasing those who make toys, those who still carve wooden puppets to those who have created the Wall-E robot toy and I-Sobot.
* Live Action Reference Footage - Older footage of how live action was used in the film, especially with the movements of Jimini Cricket.
* Pinocchio Art Galleries - The hand-drawn conceptual art of "Pinocchio" is fantastic. Absolutely beautiful!
* Pinocchios Puzzles - Hosted by Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchios Puzzles is a multi-tiered Puzzle game that contains six unique wooden puzzles for the viewer to assemble. Each puzzle forms an image from the film that comes to life once they are complete.
* Blu-ray Exclusive Bonus Features -Includes all DVD Bonus Content (*BD-Live not available in Canada)
* Disney BD-Live Network - The Disney BD-Live Network is just one of the many ways movie lovers, families, and loved ones can continue to stay connected and engage in their favorite movies.
* Movie Chat - Communicate with your remote friends on-screen while in a synchronized viewing party using your remote control or any text enabled device such as a laptop,
desk top or any PDA device such as a Blackberry, iPhone or most other regular cell phones. Your chat session will appear over the movie and occur in real-time while watching the movie together.
* Movie Mail - Blu-ray owners will be able to record a personalized video message of themselves, superimpose that capture onto one of many pre-selected clips of the movie, and send it off to a friend, colleague, or relative. This specific feature enables Pinocchio Blu-ray Disc owner to personalize a very special greeting as never before.
* Disney Movie Rewards Live - Pinocchio Blu-ray owners will be able to accumulate Disney Movie Reward Points by participating in many Disney BD-Live Network activities. In return, viewers can redeem points for exclusive content such as Avatars, downloadable extras and many more exciting possibilities.
* Disney View - A new viewing experience for future generations of home audiences, Disney View brings classic Disney films to the modern era of widescreen high definition viewing by allowing the user to expand their viewing experience beyond the original aspect ratio of the film. Utilizing Disney Blu-ray(tm) technology, artists are able to `draw beyond the borders of classic full frame cinema and fill the otherwise dark edges of the screen with beautiful original imagery, giving audiences a new view on their animated classic favorites. Legendary artist Toby Bluth is the first artists work to be featured on Disney View. I hope "Disney View" is a continuous feature because instead of watching the black bars on the sides of your widescreen TV, by having these borders and have it match with the scene was well-done!
* Cine-Explore
* Pinocchio Knows Trivia Challenge - 1 to 4-player trivia game that can be played locally or online with your friends. Try to be the first to shrink Pinocchios nose by answering challenging questions while watching the film.
* Pleasure Island Carnival Games - Best the Evil Coachmen at four challenging Carnival games to earn your freedom and escape Pleasure Island.
Also, included is a song that was not used in the final cut for the film and more!
Again, another Disney masterpiece that has its definitive release via High-Definition on Blu-ray. This release is absolutely wonderful!
I was awestruck by how brilliant the film looked and how clean and pristine this 70-year-old film was on Blu-ray. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment really showed us how brilliant their restored films would look on Blu-ray starting with "Sleeping Beauty" but since "Pinocchio" was a much older film, it wasnt known if it could benefit from the restoration but sure enough, this release is yet another "Grand Slam".
To have a such an important classic animated film released on Blu-ray to look this spectacular is impressive but to go back into the sealed archives of Disney and to find any video or any type of existing artwork or storyboards was just amazing. This release is just jam packed with special feature and you learn so much about the behind-the-scenes making of the film from the artistic and musical direction, to casting and even Walt Disney and his involvement as well.
Learning how Walt Disney wanted to immediately change his version of "Pinocchio" from Carlo Collodis original 1911 story "avventure de Pinocchio" (which featured an unlikeable, wiseguy Pinocchio and dark stories about abductions and murders) to learning also how strict Walt Disney was in making sure his staff knew what he wanted and did all he can to bring the best out of them.
Now, as a parent, I did watch this film with my child. For those who are not familiar with the classic Disney films, although Disney films are rated G, Disney films from the past versus a Disney film like "Wall-E" or a modern Disney animated film that is generally fine for children will need to know that back then, Walt Disneys animated films were created for people of all ages and not just children (which was discussed on the commentary).
So, therefore Walt Disneys first film "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves" had dark content. Disneys second film "Pinocchio" has its share of scenes that may make some parents uncomfortable. For example, in one scene, Pinocchio follows a wiseguy who likes to smoke and thus Pinocchio starts smoking a cigar (and of course getting sick by it), scenes with beer drinking and then of course, a scene where the word "jackass" is used a few times. Some may feel the content is inappropriate for their children, so I will leave that up to your discretion.
But overall, theres really nothing negative that can be said about this Blu-ray release. Its everything that a fan of the film can ever want with a High-Definition release. Digital restoration of video and audio, informative commentary, special features and much more!
Absolutely wonderful! Highly recommended!
On: 2009-03-05
I just bought Pinocchio for my granddaughter. She loves all the Disney movies. I just read a review of a retired professor saying that Eisner wont release the Song of the South due to it being NON politically correct. Well, my little Angel sat on my lap and loved the movie. My kids loved it when they were her age. So took NO racial or other implications away from the movie and the word "Slave" NEVER occurred in the show! I firmly believe that any small child would love to see this movie and be able to judge it on what they see and not on what we are afraid of them to see. I cant wait to get Pinocchio for my grandchildren to watch! I hope this lessens the Professors bitterness a bit. And I am a retired Police Sergeant with nearly 30 years on the job in NY!!!
On: 2009-02-28
One of the most endearing adventures ever taken in the imagination of a child or an adult. A truly wonderful, old world, and just gorgeous pictures and paintings. Good morals to teach the young. Family ties are very strong and we truly need to get back to the life of nuclear families. The way things once were even in a classic cartoon. A true work of art.
On: 2009-02-24
Pinocchio is the cutest Disney film of all-time. This delighful tale was a childhood favorite of mine and still is! Glad to see Disney is re-releasing this beloved classic. I highly recommend it, enjoy.
On: 2009-02-22
Im looking forward to this release of the Disney classic, however Im wishing and hoping that the powers that be have not edited this wonderful film. Other Disney classics have been digitally edited for scenes of smoking i.e. Melody Time, the Pecos Bill character has had his cigarette digitally removed, also the scene of Goofy rolling a cigarette has been removed from Saludos Amigos. Can you imagine the scenes of Pinocchio and Lampwick at Treasure Island not having the cigar smoking and beer drinking included in this release. These scenes clearly warn children not to smoke or drink and hopefully will be included as originally filmed. Lets all wish upon a star that Disney has left this fine family film intact.
On: 2009-02-14
Quick delivery. High quality product. When cartoons were quality material and meaningful. Very happy customer.
On: 2009-02-06
Since this was a gift, it is hard to review the contents, but it came in good condition with a speedy delivery.
On: 2009-02-02
I will treasure this release of Pinocchio, which has never before seen a deluxe treatment. Todays CG-minded braintrusts such as John Lasseter could do well to witness the truly marvelous multi-dimensional artwork and storytelling that was possible once without a single mouse click. Though CG is now king, those at Disney and elsewhere who fired all the talented 2D animators, have only proven their one-dimensional thinking. What I have seen of this new Bluray release is truly stunning. A pity that we will likely never see this type of animation again. Freeze any frame in this dvd of Pinocchio, and you will see something truly art gallery-worthy. Perhaps with the Bluray releases of Disney classics to come, the collection of executives at Disney may see a value in one day producing top quality Disney 2D animation that could stand alone in the industry. John Lasseter seems a genuinely talented man who respects the work of the many animation landmarks in the long and marvelous Disney history. Maybe one day hell listen to the ghosts of past animators such as Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, and wake up to realise that there are many of us out here who wish for a return to the storybook beauty that can be witnessed from start to finish in Pinocchio. Lady and the Tramp....Beauty and the Beast...the Lion King....remember how you felt when you watched them as a kid? They had those unforgettable characters that started out as a line from an artists brush, instead of as a polygon on a computer screen in todays animated movies.
And if we wish hard enough upon a star, maybe it too is a dream that can come true. If it worked for a wooden puppet, maybe it can work for me, and those who are like-minded.
On: 2009-01-23
I just saw a special engagement of this latest 70th Anniversary version of Pinnochio at Disneys El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood in advance of the DVD re-release. Though I am happy to see the movie be given public exposure on a big theatrical screen, over the years I have seen many theatrical screenings of the movie on at least 12 different occasions including an original nitrate 3-strip Technicolor studio vault print in the early 1980s (before the studio dismantled its last nitrate screening room) and non-digital film restorations and was shocked to see that this latest restored version has digitally tampered with the films original color palette for no justifiable reason.
Some of the chosen character hues are modern day, popular color hues, but look out of place in this early animated classic including certain pinks, reds and blues which are reused so often in identical shades that to classic animation buffs it becomes distractingly noticeable. For those animation buffs who know about Pinnochio, Walt intentionally muted colors in some of the scarier or sadder scenes. In the restored version, for example, when Pinnochio gets locked in Geppettos "birdcage" the nighttime scene is bright and garish where it should intentionally be darker and muted.
The original movie had hand inked character outlines in colors that matched the interior ink colors, none of that is apparent in this restoration. The characters, though admittedly sharper and clearer, look color-wise like they were electronically tampered with, then reinserted in front of the original backgrounds.
At this point, the damage is done and obviously this restoration was "stylistic." But in any case, it might be compared with someone redoing the Mona Lisa with more modern color hues for the purpose of improving the artwork or making it more modern day acceptable. Either two things, perhaps no one at Disney was knowledgeable enough to notice what the outside restoration company was planning to do with the film in early test segments or maybe they figured that modern day DVD audiences would not know the difference or care, but this is the first "DIGITALLY RESTORED" classic Disney film that I have ever taken issue with. What a let down since it is my very favorite Disney film of all!!!
P.S. I was the founder of the former, long time Disney employees Animated Film Club (later referred to as the Disney Film Club) which included Disneyland and Walt Disney Studio employees. It was founded in 1976 and continued on and off for many years afterward with visits from surviving original Disney animators, screenings of rare Disney footage and more.
On: 2009-01-18
The first four Disney features are arguably the best ever produced at the studio, and while SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS is still a strong and remarkable achievement, PINOCCHIO is an even more impressive one.
It is a very dark film--the comedy is sugar coating on a tale of horror where evil characters lurk in every corner, luring innocents from the strait and narrow path into dreadful fates, relieved only after Pinocchio pays a price. The delightful characters and strong story line make PINOCCHIO one of my favorite Disney films.
I am very pleased to hear that deleted storyboards and preproduction materials will be included on the disc. It has been a long wait but it will be worth it. Im eagerly awaiting this discs release.
On: 2009-01-11
My granddaughter loves it. Watches it over and over again. The company said that it was in like new condition and it was. Id buy it again.
On: 2009-01-11
Dickie Jones, who does the voice of Pinocchio, did a brief audio interview in 2007, discussing his participation in 1934s "March of the Wooden Soldiers" and how he was given the role of Pinocchio.
He also talks about his family and marriage of 59 years.
To hear this interview and see a recent photo of Mr. Jones, please go to
www.nuttynutnewsnetwork.com and click on Interviews.
On: 2008-11-17
Pinocchio, winner of two Academy Awards, included on Roger Eberts Great Movie series (1998), Time Magazines All Time 100 Movies list (Corliss, Schickel 2005), The American Film Institutess Animation Top 10 ranked second to only Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs (2008), and selected to The Library of Congress National Film Registry with only 450 other titles .
Now this acclaimed classic animated tale gets some real "dvd" treatment, along with an all new digital restoration (movieweb) at a fair price.
The information below is a heads up on the features I found online via (movieweb)
Special Features
DISC ONE
- Pinocchios Matter of Facts - - Learn fun facts about Pinocchio and other related subjects as you watch the movie.
- Audio Commentary -- An all-new audio commentary with Leonard Maltin, Eric Goldberg and J. B. Kaufman.
- Disney Song Selection -- Select this option to sing along with favorite songs as the lyrics appear onscreen.
DISC TWO
- No Strings Attached: The Making of Pinocchio - - Witness the behind-the scenes magic that transformed Carlo Collodis popular book into a classic animated film.
- Deleted Scenes --
- The Story of the Grandfather Tree - - Kindly Geppetto tells Pinocchio about the Great Pine Tree from which Pinocchio is descended.
- In The Belly Of The Whale - - The most elaborate of Pinocchios deleted scenes that remain in the Disney Archives, these recently discovered storyboards reveal a different version of Geppetto inside Monstro.
- Alternate Ending - - A recently uncovered set of small storyboard panels reveal plans for a different version of Pinocchio becoming a real boy.
- The Sweat Box - - The Sweatbox was a small projection room at the Disney studio where Walt critiqued story reels, rough animation, and dailies of films in progress with his anxious artists. This piece traces the history of the Sweatbox and brings to life this important part of Walt Disneys
artistic process.
- Live Action Reference Footage
- Pinocchio Art Galleries
- Deleted Songs - - An audio collection of period "pop" recordings of songs that not used in the final film.
- Pinocchio Puzzles - - Hosted by Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchios Puzzles is a multi-tiered Puzzle game that contains six unique wooden puzzles for the viewer to assemble. Each puzzle forms an image from the film that comes to life once they are complete.
The following features will only be available on the Blu-ray set:
- Cine-Explore
- Disney BD-Live Network - The Disney BD-Live Network is just one of the many ways movie lovers, families, and loved ones can continue to stay connected and engage in their favorite movies.
- Movie Chat - Communicate with your remote friends on-screen while in a synchronized viewing party using your remote control or any text enabled device such as a laptop, desktop or any PDA device such as a Blackberry, iPhone or most other regular cell phones. Your chat session will appear over the movie and occur in real-time while watching the movie together.
- Movie Mail - Blu-ray owners will be able to record a personalized video message of themselves, superimpose that capture onto one of many pre-selected clips of the movie, and send it off to a friend, colleague, or relative. This specific feature enables Pinocchio Blu-ray Disc owner to personalize a very special greeting as never before.
- Movie Challenge - Users will be able to test their skills against other players in a synchronized, real-time, online trivia game while watching Pinocchio with anyone online. Movie Challenge is always active no matter what time of the day it is, and there will always be a game in progress.
- Disney Movie Rewards Live - Pinocchio Blu-ray owners will be able to accumulate Disney Movie Reward Points by participating in many Disney BD-Live Network activities. In return, viewers can redeem points for exclusive content such as Avatars, downloadable extras and many more exciting possibilities.
- Pinocchio Knows Trivia Challenge
On: 2008-11-14
I ordered my DVD several weeks ago and am still waiting for it. The estimated time of arrival indicated November 3 at the latest. I also contacted the vendor, but have not received any reply. I am very unhappy at this point.
On: 2008-11-12
Whoopee!! At long last Disney is re-releasing this classic animated motion picture on Platinum Edition DVD! This is a marvellous treat for all animation fans everywhere !!
Disneys second full length animated feature is full to the brim with delights , and marvellous characters , such as Jiminy Cricket , Gepetto, the Blue Fairy , Pinocchio himself , Figaro the Cat , and Cleo the Mae Westian Fish , plus of course the darker elements of the story , namely the Fox John Worthington Foulfellow and his mute sidekick the Cat , the excitable Stromboli, the bad influence Lampwick , the chilling Coachman "Oh they never come back as Boys!! The sequence of Lampwicks transformation ( and not to spoil things Ill say no more ! ) is terrifying!
The film is full of exquisite detail , and through the extensive use of the - at the time - State of the Art Multiplane Camera* gives hitherto unseen effects of great depth to several suquences of the movie beginning with the establishing opening shot sequence when we first meet Jimminy Cricket!
I look forward to the Making Of Featurette, with Gustav Tenggrens splendid inspirational pre-production drawings etc.
This is a movie to add to every animation buffs/familys DVD library!
* The Multiplane Camera was first used in the pioneering Silly Symphony The Old Mill , and then in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs , which thankfully , is due out again next October in Disney Platinum Edition on DVD and Blu Ray!
On: 2008-11-11
I am so excited that this title is finally being released first time Platinum Edition. This movie is one of Disneys very best. The animation is so beautiful and detailed. The character development is wonderful and the soundtrack is fantastic. It is amazing to think that at the time it was released in the theaters it was a financial failure. Walt wanted to make sure that the quality of the animation and the movie did not suffer, even if it meant losing money on it, which it did. BUT, through the years the obvious magic of this movie captured so many hearts, that eventually it came on top and made movie making history. So here is to all of us that dare to dream and wish upon a star. Pinoke.... you will forever be in my heart!
On: 2008-11-08
I first saw this movie as a child some sixty-five years ago and have always remembered it fondly. Now, having my first grandchild, I began to wonder if it was really as good as I thought it was and if my granddaughter might enjoy seeing it too.
What a joy! Walt Disneys Pinocchio is everything I remembered it to be. The musical score is enchanting and the art work superb. Truly remarkable, the art work, drawn by true craftsmen, makes modern computer graphics look shallow and sickly by comparison. The principle characters are equally well done and charmingly presented. And, best of all, Pinocchios story carries with it three important moral lessons which every child should learn: If you want to be a real boy [or girl] you must listen to your parents and let your conscience be your guide; if you tell a lie it will be as plain as the nose on your face; and if you dont follow your conscience and mind your parents, youll most likely go astray and make a jackass of yourself.
This is simply a great film and a great story with a great message, and is suitable for viewing by every child and child at heart from the age of five to at least one hundred and five. Too bad the limit is five stars. This film and those who made it certainly deserve much more.
On: 2008-10-21
Great customer service and shipping was quick product in great condition. Love the movie. thanks.
On: 2008-10-19
Everybody has a different Disney favorite but Pinoccio is surely mine. This is the stuff of childhood dreams (and nightmares also). Personally I think this is the one animated movie with the biggest heart of all. My only complaint: having to wait over 10 years of the DVD revolution before finally getting a decent edition, anyway, that will only make this release more of an event.
On: 2008-10-18
For years, the only available edition of Disneys classic "Pinocchio" has been a bare-bones movie-only version with no extras at all. Practically every other animated film in the Disney vault has been released in special 2-disc editions. Now, this has been fixed with this Platinum Edition on Blu-ray/DVD. Released in 1940, "Pinocchio" was the 2nd animated feature, following the release of "Snow White." It also introduced the Oscar winning song, "When You Wish Upon a Star," which is one of the most memorable Disney songs ever.
For those unfamiliar with the story, it involves a wooden puppet, Pinocchio, created by lonely Gepetto the woodcarver. The Blue Fairy grants his wish of making the puppet alive, however, he can only become a real boy if he proves himself "brave, truthful, and unselfish." Assigned the character Jiminy Cricket as his conscience, Pinocchio begins his adventures to become a real boy. Without giving away too much of the plot, one of my favorite sequences is the one involving Pleasure Island. It would not be too difficult today to draw parallels to what happens to people when they get attracted to dangerous short-term pleasures that mask a life of imprisonment. Although the movie dips into some dark territory, obviously Disney brings it back to happier ground, showing the power of true love (albeit not a romantic one this time). Cliff Edwards brings Jiminy Crickett to life with his expressive vocal talents, and few can equal his singing of the classic "Wish Upon A Star" song in his trademark falsetto. Little known trivia: the voice of the Blue Fairy is actress Evelyn Venable, who played Shirley Temples mother in "The Little Colonel" (1935).
The video on this will blow you away; the level of detail is just incredible...and the picture is clean as a whistle. Color are vibrant and practically leap off the screen; this has caused some issues with so-called purists who claim that the restoration is TOO vibrant and not what was originally intended. This could be, but personally, watching this on Blu-ray AND DVD was amazing. No complaints here. The audio is crisp and clear...hard to imagine that this movie is 69 years old. Wow!!!
Here are the INCREDIBLE bonus features:
DISC ONE
* Pinocchios Matter of Facts: Fun facts about Pinocchio and other related subjects as you watch the movie
* Audio Commentary: Leonard Maltin, Eric Goldberg and J. B. Kaufman
* Disney Song Selection: Sing along with favorite songs as the lyrics appear onscreen
DISC TWO
BACKSTAGE DISNEY--
* "No Strings Attached: The Making of Pinocchio." (55:88) Fantastic in-depth feature that covers almost every detail. Casting is covered (including interviews with Dickie Jones, the voice of Pinocchio), and shows just how much the voices added as well as the live-action reference actors. Special credit goes to Cliff Edwards, the extremely memorable voice of Jiminy Cricket. This feature details how "Pinocchio" was the first feature after "Snow White." The animators had great confidence after "Snow" and were looking to expand their horizons even more with "Pinocchio." Technically, this movie shows the animators at the top of their game; watching the multi-plane camera shots is breathtaking.
* 2 Deleted Scenes & Alternate Ending (10:23) with intro (:57): All of these are shown in storyboard form. "The Story of the Grandfather Tree" (3:17)-Geppetto tells Pinocchio about the Great Pine Tree from which he (Pinocchio) is descended. "In The Belly Of The Whale" (4:14)-The most elaborate of Pinocchios deleted scenes that remains in the Disney Archives, these recently discovered storyboards reveal a different version of Geppetto inside Monstro. Alternate Ending (1:53): A recently uncovered set of small storyboard panels reveal plans for a different version of Pinocchio becoming a real boy.
* The Sweat Box (6:24): The Sweatbox was a small projection room at the Disney studio where Walt critiqued story reels, rough animation, and dailies of films in progress with his anxious artists. This piece traces the history of the Sweatbox and brings to life this important part of Walt Disneys artistic process. Using reenactments for the action and the actual conversations (a stenographer copied these down and they still exist), you can feel a part of the creation process as Walt critiques the pencil tests. Although harsh at times, animators today say that Walt was usually spot-on in his critiques. Very little of the footage in "Pinocchio" is seen as originally intended; with the sweatbox, each sequence was worked and re-worked to perfection.
* Live Action Reference Footage (9:58). This is absolutely fascinating. Not only do you get to see some of the reference footage, you see and hear (through a current narration) how the animators actually used this footage. Apparently, Walt was not happy with the original actor for the live-footage of Jiminy Cricket, as a 2nd one was brought in. And for those who scoff at the live-action as a means to simply trace...not so...animators tell how doing a straight tracing job ends up looking stiff. Much care was put into each drawing to make them appear alive and fluid.
* Pinocchio Art Galleries
* Deleted Song: "Honest John" is a 1947 promotional recording of a song not used in the film.
* Gepettos: Then & Now: This featurette chronicles toymaking, with a number of fascinating interviews. Cyril Hobbins is a toymaker in England who carves traditional toys from wood still. Lenka Pavlickova is from Prague, and she shows her realistic wood-carved marionettes. As she tells here, puppets help overcome cultural and language barriers. Naturally, as they cover the modern-day toys, there is a plug for the Ultimate Wall-E toy, described by Chris Heatherly, VP Technology & Innovation for Disney "Toy-morrow." This Wall-E figure has been created to be as life-like as possible and reacts to the human voice. Extremely impressive! Not so impressive is the Japanese robot, I-Sobot, described by Kimitaka Watanabe, GM of Future Toys. There is nothing loveable about this figure.
ACTIVITIES & GAMES: These are well-done in the animation department, but unless you have a ton of time on your hands...
* Pinocchio Puzzles: Hosted by Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchios Puzzles is a multi-tiered puzzle game that contains six unique wooden puzzles for the viewer to assemble by clicking on the right puzzle piece. Each puzzle forms an image from the film that comes to life once they are complete.
* Pleasure Island Carnival Games: Help rescue the kids by playing the carnival games and defeating the coachman.
For Blu-ray owners, heres the exclusive content IN ADDITION to what has been mentioned above:
* Cine-Explore
* Disney BD-Live Network - The Disney BD-Live Network is just one of the many ways viewers can continue to stay connected and engage in their favorite movies.
* Movie Chat - Communicate with your remote friends on-screen while in a synchronized viewing party using your remote control or any text enabled device such as a laptop, desk top or any PDA device such as a Blackberry, iPhone or most other regular cell phones. Your chat session will appear over the movie and occur in real-time while watching the movie together.
* Movie Mail: Record a personalized video message of yourself, superimpose that capture onto one of many pre-selected clips of the movie, and send it off to a friend, colleague, or relative.
* Movie Challenge: Test your skills against other players in a synchronized, real-time, online trivia game while watching Pinocchio with anyone online. Movie Challenge is always active no matter what time of the day it is, and there will always be a game in progress.
* Disney Movie Rewards Live: Accumulate Disney Movie Reward Points by participating in many Disney BD-Live Network activities. In return, viewers can redeem points for exclusive content such as Avatars, downloadable extras and more.
* Pinocchio Knows Trivia Challenge
Specs:
Video: 1:33:1 ratio (as originally filmed); Audio: Up to 7.1 HD Sound with 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound on Bonus DVD; Languages: French & Spanish
Recommendation: Get the blu-ray version, as it includes a DVD copy of the film. Thats a no-brainer.
On: 2008-10-01
disney movies are always good.But in my opinon only the old classics like pinocchio,mouse detective etc. are truly worth watching.Not the junk they have put out in the last 20 yrs.
On: 2008-09-30
Dont believe the item was authentic. Then when I contacted the vendor to return I never got a response. This was a gift and not only was I embarrassed I lost my money. This will make me hesitant to order from another vendor.
On: 2008-09-25
For the past two years Ive searched the stores looking for a copy of Pinoccio, and never found one.
why didnt I just go to Amazon in the first place and I would have had the movie years ago. I wanted my grandchildren to hear the story of Pinocchio and learn the lesson of what happens when you tell a fib. My nose is small to this day, thanks to the lesson I learned from Walt Disney and his wonderful wood boy.
On: 2008-09-03
I have been getting the run around all summer. If anyone can help me find a good seller for a Pinocchio DVD that works, I would appreciate it very much.
On: 2008-06-18
The first time my Carmen saw this movie she was mesmerized, just like I remember seeing it for the first time. She loves Jimminie Cricket. This was one of my own mothers favorite movie, and she is named after my mom, and to see her little face light up, that was a real treasure and treat.
On: 2008-06-14
well, this was not a real Disney copy of the movie. Plays fine. But for the price I expected a authentic Disney copy
On: 2008-04-20
This movie is a classic and should be in everyones DVD collection IMO. Shipping was fast and the product came in excelent condition as promised. This is a great movie for my 3 year old on a rainy day!
On: 2008-01-27
My parents took us to see this at the local drive-in when I was 5 years old. I will never forget how much I enjoyed it. I was entranced throughout. The next day I spent 90 minutes explaining the entire movie scene by scene to the neighbor lady hehe. I think it was my favorite movie ever when I was a kid. I need to see it again, nearly 40 years later and travel back in time. Im sure I will enjoy it just as much. But I am surprised at some reviewers calling it inappropriate for kids lol that is just plain dumb.
On: 2008-01-21
Im a grandmother and watching the video took me back to my childhood days. I bought Pinnochio for my four year old grandson--the animation is old technology--not of the quality young children have come to expect... it frightened him and did not hold his interest. I do not recommend it for small children...
by: Anonymous On: 2007-05-22
I love Pinocchio when he lies. His nose grew and grew longer and sure gives me an idea how creative author has. Its original powerful animation that Walt Disney has to present. Also I must add when Pinocchio asking the creator Why, Why, and Why and suddenly I asked my parents why Pinocchio asking Whys. A perfect family animation film.
On: 2007-05-21
I love Pinocchio when he lies. His nose grew and grew longer and sure gives me an idea how creative author has. Its original powerful animation that Walt Disney has to present. Also I must add when Pinocchio asking the creator Why, Why, and Why and suddenly I asked my parents why Pinocchio asking Whys. A perfect family animation film.
by: princesspumkin On: 2007-04-13
My father loved Disney s Pinocchio as a child and I still had the video tape of the carttoon in his memory !
by: Anonymous On: 2007-04-09
Ive enjoyed a lot of classics by Walt himself - Dumbo, Bambi, 101 Dalmatians, Lady and the Tramp etc. But I just cannot bring myself to like Pinocchio. Im sorry, but it looked like was made for babies, or four or five year olds at the most. Although, even at the age of five, I found it too childish. Ive heard some reviewers say that this film is quite dark, but I just cannot believe that! Firstly, they tried too hard on the animation. It was far too saturated. The colour is all screwed up. The acting is poor. The only good well-developed character is Jiminy Cricket. The other characters are very underdeveloped, so I didnt really care what happened to them. They made Pinocchio really sickly sweet, and I didnt feel for him, he was just annoying. The plot is ridiculous. It was just Pinocchio and Jiminy running into one problem after another. Oh, and the donkey scene is not disturbing - its just plain stupid!
All in all, Pinocchio is only of interest to VERY young children. Otherwise, do not waste your money. If you want a good family film, rent Amblimations Balto instead.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-04-08
Ive enjoyed a lot of classics by Walt himself - Dumbo, Bambi, 101 Dalmatians, Lady and the Tramp etc. But I just cannot bring myself to like Pinocchio. Im sorry, but it looked like was made for babies, or four or five year olds at the most. Although, even at the age of five, I found it too childish. Ive heard some reviewers say that this film is quite dark, but I just cannot believe that! Firstly, they tried too hard on the animation. It was far too saturated. The colour is all screwed up. The acting is poor. The only good well-developed character is Jiminy Cricket. The other characters are very underdeveloped, so I didnt really care what happened to them. They made Pinocchio really sickly sweet, and I didnt feel for him, he was just annoying. The plot is ridiculous. It was just Pinocchio and Jiminy running into one problem after another. Oh, and the donkey scene is not disturbing - its just plain stupid!
All in all, Pinocchio is only of interest to VERY young children. Otherwise, do not waste your money. If you want a good family film, rent Amblimations Balto instead.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-03-13
This is one of Disneys finest animated features and it has not had a complete restoration done!! Mind boggling! The print here looks like it is direct from VHS. I hope there is a 2 disc Platinum edition coming soon?
by: aragorn_freak On: 2007-02-22
This movie is a beautifully-made masterpiece that, very unfortunately, seems to be overlooked sometimes because of other old Disney movies that were made around that time (like Snow White). However, of all the "old" Disney movies (made before the era of Eisner), this is the one that most hits the mark for me. Not only is it an interesting story with involving characters, but the overlooked soundtrack is also quite wonderful. "Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee" is an old favorite of mine, and not to mention "Little Wooden Head" is a catchy little tune. This is my favorite of the oldies-but-goodies because not only does it completely hit the mark, but it doesnt rely on the old cliche of "princess captured by evil stepmother and then saved later on by a nameless Prince Charming who has no personality whatsoever". Though some of those movies are good, like Snow White, some of them are dull like Cinderella, and this movie doesnt make you make that choice.
Now I havent always been a fan of this movie; this is more of a "grown-up" movie than many of the others that were made around that time. This is a darker tale than the likes of Snow White, and a more intense and involving one than movies like Cinderella. It also doesnt follow the oft-degraded Disney Formula, because theres no real cookie-cutter "bad guy". And since theres no real cookie-cutter bad guy, it makes it all the more interesting to see four or five villains make their entrances and exits, more like a real-life fairy tale than others. None of the villains "gets what he deserves", like in most Disney movies where they fall to their deaths.
That isnt to say that the other Disney movies arent good. That is, however, to say that this Disney movie was ahead of its time in its innovations in realistic story developments. Granted, the story itself isnt that realistic, but we all know the story, and can take it for granted. And Im not saying that the film is COMPLETELY underrated either. Just about everybodys heard the song "When You Wish Upon A Star", and it truly is a wonderfully sweet tune.
Speaking of which, Jiminy Cricket is a masterpiece of a character if there ever was one. And there are plenty of other great characters in this movie too: the old puppet master, Geppetto, who just wants a real boy; Cleo and Figaro, the domesticated fish and jealous cat; and of course many great villains, including Honest John, Stromboli, Lampwick, and of course Monstro, most of whom are also used for on-the-spot comic relief. But despite the comic relief, there are definitely some scenes that are too scary for the youngsters, including quite a few edgy scenes including the mad old puppeteer Stromboli. However, its not ALL dark, which is good. There are some very fun, and some laugh-out-loud funny, scenes, both for the youngsters and for the adults.
Overall, this truly is a great movie for anybody, but especially for those who have ever been through the struggle of being a real boy. :)
On: 2007-02-21
This movie is a beautifully-made masterpiece that, very unfortunately, seems to be overlooked sometimes because of other old Disney movies that were made around that time (like Snow White). However, of all the "old" Disney movies (made before the era of Eisner), this is the one that most hits the mark for me. Not only is it an interesting story with involving characters, but the overlooked soundtrack is also quite wonderful. "Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee" is an old favorite of mine, and not to mention "Little Wooden Head" is a catchy little tune. This is my favorite of the oldies-but-goodies because not only does it completely hit the mark, but it doesnt rely on the old cliche of "princess captured by evil stepmother and then saved later on by a nameless Prince Charming who has no personality whatsoever". Though some of those movies are good, like Snow White, some of them are dull like Cinderella, and this movie doesnt make you make that choice.
Now I havent always been a fan of this movie; this is more of a "grown-up" movie than many of the others that were made around that time. This is a darker tale than the likes of Snow White, and a more intense and involving one than movies like Cinderella. It also doesnt follow the oft-degraded Disney Formula, because theres no real cookie-cutter "bad guy". And since theres no real cookie-cutter bad guy, it makes it all the more interesting to see four or five villains make their entrances and exits, more like a real-life fairy tale than others. None of the villains "gets what he deserves", like in most Disney movies where they fall to their deaths.
That isnt to say that the other Disney movies arent good. That is, however, to say that this Disney movie was ahead of its time in its innovations in realistic story developments. Granted, the story itself isnt that realistic, but we all know the story, and can take it for granted. And Im not saying that the film is COMPLETELY underrated either. Just about everybodys heard the song "When You Wish Upon A Star", and it truly is a wonderfully sweet tune.
Speaking of which, Jiminy Cricket is a masterpiece of a character if there ever was one. And there are plenty of other great characters in this movie too: the old puppet master, Geppetto, who just wants a real boy; Cleo and Figaro, the domesticated fish and jealous cat; and of course many great villains, including Honest John, Stromboli, Lampwick, and of course Monstro, most of whom are also used for on-the-spot comic relief. But despite the comic relief, there are definitely some scenes that are too scary for the youngsters, including quite a few edgy scenes including the mad old puppeteer Stromboli. However, its not ALL dark, which is good. There are some very fun, and some laugh-out-loud funny, scenes, both for the youngsters and for the adults.
Overall, this truly is a great movie for anybody, but especially for those who have ever been through the struggle of being a real boy. :)
by: Anonymous On: 2007-02-04
Disneys competitor to his legendary "Sleeping Beauty" and of course, "Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs" as ultra Disney animation can probably ever get, even with computer animation processes developed today.
"When You Wish Upon A Star" was voted as one of the top ten songs in movie history! ("Over The Rainbow" got the top spot).
A special note for the rest of the musical score: entirely memorable, and should hit a soft spot in even the hardcore personalities.
I wont get into the plot, but the movie is a visual feast even if you dont follow the story.
Disneys construction of Geppettos workshop is a fairy like tale come true, which eventually graces the presence of the "good blue fairy."
Jiminy Cricket, whose voice character is also legendary, provides the Disney studios with yet another animated icon as valid as Peter Pans Tinker Bell.
Monstro the whale, towards the end of the movie climax, is a great added feature for memorable adversaries. The underwater sequences shows the aching detail of the Disney artists. A must have for any true animated movie collector.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-01-10
I am very satisfied with this product. The delivery was prompt and the quality of the product is excellent. Thank you.
by: Anonymous On: 2006-10-13
purchased the dvd and received it quickly - when trying to view the dvd I found it has no audio - I contacted the seller NO RESPONSE - I then went through Amazon and still NO RESPONSE. I am very disappointed and sad to say this has put a sour taste in my mouth. I can say I will never purchase anything from CHILLOUT ZONE again as it only takes but a minute to respond to an e-mail and they can not even to that....
by: Anonymous On: 2006-09-18
This has got to be at least in the top three of the many animated movies the Disney studios produced. So many great characters are in it - Cleo, Jiminy Crickit, The Good Fairy, Gepetto, Honest John, Monstro and of course Pinocchio himself. So many good hummable songs too including "An Actors Life", Ive Got No Strings to Hold Me Down, and the most famous "When You Wish Upon A Star." The story is original and the plot exciting without being too scary for little ones and all ends happily. Dont miss the ride at Disneyland either!
by: Anonymous On: 2006-08-21
Made back when Disney made truely great animated films. I love the old Disney stuff and Pinocchio is one of the best. Disney was and is the king of this film genre, especially back when this one was made. NO animation done today rivals the Disney cartoons of the era this film was made. Warner Brothers, Dreamworks, Pixar and any of the other animation studios of today will never touch the quality and imagination of early Disney films. I dont like computer animation, so maybe Im biased in that respect. This film is pure art.
by: jverder537 On: 2006-08-07
Mary Poppins is the greatest Disney film ever made, but if your looking for Uncle Walts greatest animated classic, this is the film. Pinnochio is superbly written, animated and designed. Its an exiting, dark and detailed picture with charming characters and wonderful lessons.
Its a shame that Disney has not decided to make this part of their "Platnium Edition" collection. It surely has more merit than The Lion King. Its a great film!
by: lee18 On: 2006-07-24
We just happened to have a VHS copy of this tape when we adopted our son at age four from a foreign country. In his first weeks at home, he watched the story over and over, seemingly endlessly.
This should have been no surprise, I suppose. When you think about it, Pinocchio is really an adoption story--the tale of an elderly man who has crafted a new life from his profound wish to have a child.
Adopted children are not crafted, of course. They are a great gift from their birth families, who have sacrificed the child, usually (I think) because they know they cannot provide him or her with adequate care. And yet, the child does in fact become "real" when he or she accepts the adoptive family as his own, and accordingly finds a real place in the world.
For our son, Pinocchio provided the perfect metaphor at the perfect time and place. Here was a boy who awoke one morning in a strange environment he did not recognize, who was unable to attach to those who loved him, or even to tell right from wrong, or why telling the truth is an essential trait for all. Here was a boy who had so little self-respect, he could feel "at home" anywhere.
Pinocchio finds himself at Geppettos home, replete with other puppets on strings, who unlike him, cannot move or speak, not to mention the music boxes, coo coo clocks, Figaro the cat and Cleo, in a fish bowl. Eventually, as most grown-ups know, Pinocchio learns the lessons of love and the importance of family, bringing all his wishes true.
For all children, this is a wonderful tale. But for adoptive children, it is especially poignant, for Pinocchio got a second chance, as do all adoptive children.
by: Anonymous On: 2006-07-17
As a child one of my earliest memories of going to the movies was going to see Pinocchio. I have seen many Disney films since then, but Pinocchio is still one of my favorites.
For me at least what makes this movie stand above so many other animated movies is the story, and the characters. The simple Italian fairytale of Pinocchio is really taken to the next level in this movie as we see the rich animation paint beautiful images across the screen. From Gepettos wood shop with all the clocks to Pleasure Island, all parts of the animation really surpass anything anyone could have expected.
The characters are all interesting and well developed. From Pinocchio to Monstro you get a real understanding of their personlities as well as their struggles.
The Story though is what makes the film. For a Disney film this is really a dark story. Im sure that Disney had a little pressure to comprimise the story to make it more "kid friendly" but the fact that he stayed true to what he envisioned for this film really pays off in the end.
In all the Disney animated movies made I would personally put Pinocchio in the top 3 just behind, The Lion King and Peter Pan.
I think is would be a great movie for theater classes as it shows the perfect example of character and story development, and flawless animation perfection.
Pinocchio for some reason hasnt really received the praise it rightfully deserves from Disney. It isnt released that often and when it is, its not to the same fanfare as other more recent Disney films, and that is unfortunate. If you can pick this one up you should.
by: Anonymous On: 2006-05-15
Pinocchio is in the top three. No, its not one of the three best movies of all time; those would have to be "The Americanization of Emily," "Dances with Wolves," and . . . well, how do you choose between "To Kill a Mockingbird," "Gone with the Wind," and "Its a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World"?
Warner Brothers easily holds the spot as the best Animation Studio, and I think Id have to give the number two spot to Pixar. But, that leaves Disney as number three, and Pinocchio is one of Disneys classics.
If I had to pick my favorite Cartoon Shorts, Disney would lead the way with "Casey at the Bat," "Willy the Whale," and "Paul Bunyan."
All of the above is easy.
I dont know that I can pick my favorite feature-length animated films, but I can tell you that the top three scenes of all time, for all animated, feature-length films, easily belong to Disney.
Dumbos mother, cradling him in her trunk while shes bound by chains in jail, shouts love far louder than Will Rogers famous words: "There are only two kinds of enduring love in the world: a dogs love for its master, and a mothers love for her child."
Meriwether, the obstinate little blue fairy in "Sleeping Beauty," shows us all what its like to abide by the wishes of others, to conform where conformance is expected -- in todays vernacular, "To follow the Process" -- but, when an evil Malicifient, in the form of a fire-breathing dragon is about to kill Prince Charming, who, it just so happens, is the one true love of Princess Aurora, and Aurora just so happens to be the young girl whom Meriwether has helped to raise and whom Meriwether loves with all her heart, mind, body, and spirit; theres only one thing to do: a spell, spoken from the heart and aimed at the heart: "Sword of truth fly swift and sure so that Evil may Die and Good Endure!" Goodbye Malicifient! True love -- the love of Meriwether for Aurora -- conquers all. (...and dont mess with little blue fairys.)
Finally, we get to Pinocchio. Without our dreams and wishes, nothing comes true. Yes, Pinocchio gives us a detailed story about the trials and tribulations of having a wish come true . . . but then theres that song. The songs all you really need. Look at the star, and listen to Cliff Edwards (as Jiminy Cricket) sing. Animation has always allowed the impossible to happen, and special effects, today, make the impossible happen so often that were no longer sure what is real, but Cliff Edwards singing "When You Wish Upon a Star" is real, as real as anything youve ever known or will ever know.
Look at the star, and then close your eyes. Feel the song pull at your heart strings. The tears in your eyes are every bit as real as your wishes. Listen to Cliff sing "will come to you," early in the song, where "come" is the highest note in the stanza, and then keep listening, at the end, when Cliff sings "your dreams come true." The second note is the same as it was at the beginning of the song, but he doesnt go down to sing that third note; instead, he goes up! From having heard so many songs, sung by so many singers, you know that Cliff is going to have to sing that final note, that final word that youve already guessed is going to be "true," lower than the incredibly high "come" that he is holding, but then a wish that you didnt know youd wished, a dream that you didnt think was dreamable happens: Cliff hits that high, high note, and its "TRUE!" It is just so absolutely TRUE!!!
by: Anonymous On: 2006-05-14
Pinocchio is in the top three. No, its not one of the three best movies of all time; those would have to be "The Americanization of Emily," "Dances with Wolves," and . . . well, how do you choose between "To Kill a Mockingbird," "Gone with the Wind," and "Its a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World"?
Warner Brothers easily holds the spot as the best Animation Studio, and I think Id have to give the number two spot to Pixar. But, that leaves Disney as number three, and Pinocchio is one of Disneys classics.
If I had to pick my favorite Cartoon Shorts, Disney would lead the way with "Casey at the Bat," "Willy the Whale," and "Paul Bunyan."
All of the above is easy.
I dont know that I can pick my favorite feature-length animated films, but I can tell you that the top three scenes of all time, for all animated, feature-length films, easily belong to Disney.
Dumbos mother, cradling him in her trunk while shes bound by chains in jail, shouts love far louder than Will Rogers famous words: "There are only two kinds of enduring love in the world: a dogs love for its master, and a mothers love for her child."
Meriwether, the obstinate little blue fairy in "Sleeping Beauty," shows us all what its like to abide by the wishes of others, to conform where conformance is expected -- in todays vernacular, "To follow the Process" -- but, when an evil Malicifient, in the form of a fire-breathing dragon is about to kill Prince Charming, who, it just so happens, is the one true love of Princess Aurora, and Aurora just so happens to be the young girl whom Meriwether has helped to raise and whom Meriwether loves with all her heart, mind, body, and spirit; theres only one thing to do: a spell, spoken from the heart and aimed at the heart: "Sword of truth fly swift and sure so that Evil may Die and Good Endure!" Goodbye Malicifient! True love -- the love of Meriwether for Aurora -- conquers all. (...and dont mess with little blue fairys.)
Finally, we get to Pinocchio. Without our dreams and wishes, nothing comes true. Yes, Pinocchio gives us a detailed story about the trials and tribulations of having a wish come true . . . but then theres that song. The songs all you really need. Look at the star, and listen to Cliff Edwards (as Jiminy Cricket) sing. Animation has always allowed the impossible to happen, and special effects, today, make the impossible happen so often that were no longer sure what is real, but Cliff Edwards singing "When You Wish Upon a Star" is real, as real as anything youve ever known or will ever know.
Look at the star, and then close your eyes. Feel the song pull at your heart strings. The tears in your eyes are every bit as real as your wishes. Listen to Cliff sing "will come to you," early in the song, where "come" is the highest note in the stanza, and then keep listening, at the end, when Cliff sings "your dreams come true." The second note is the same as it was at the beginning of the song, but he doesnt go down to sing that third note; instead, he goes up! From having heard so many songs, sung by so many singers, you know that Cliff is going to have to sing that final note, that final word that youve already guessed is going to be "true," lower than the incredibly high "come" that he is holding, but then a wish that you didnt know youd wished, a dream that you didnt think was dreamable happens: Cliff hits that high, high note, and its "TRUE!" It is just so absolutely TRUE!!!
by: has_his_own_corner On: 2006-03-12
This animated Disney movie is a timeless classic that contains all the elements of a great story. The characters are incredibly well animated and sympathetic. Pinocchio finds himself routinely, and often naively, getting into trouble even when he tries to keep out of trouble. This classic has action, excitement and cleverly hidden morals to delight all family members.
Lonely woodcarver Geppetto (voiced by the late veteran actor Christian Rub) carves a wooden boy that he names Pinocchio. Geppetto longs for the family he never had, most particularly, a child. The Blue Fairy (voiced by Evelyn Venable, who has a star on Hollywoods Walk of Fame) hears and feels Geppettos longing, and gives the wooden boy life. The Blue Fairy also promises that Pinocchio will have an opportunity to become a real boy. The Blue Fairy also gives Pinocchio (voiced by Dickie Jones, who had an extensive film career as a child) a conscience in the form of Jiminy Cricket (voiced by Cliff Edwards, who voiced Jiminy Cricket nearly to his death in 1971, and who also appeared in "Gone with the Wind").
Almost as soon as Pinocchio goes out into the world, ostensibly to go to school, he encounters mischief in the form of Honest John (voiced by the late veteran star Walter Catlett, who appeared in many movies such as "Friendly Persuasion," "The Inspector General," and "Yankee Doodle Dandy"). Honest John quickly sees opportunity in selling Pinocchio to a showman. Pinocchio gets out of trouble and then right back into trouble, ending up in Pleasure Island where boys make jackasses (another word for donkey) out of themselves. Fortunately Pinocchio escapes before completely changing into a donkey.
However, Pinocchios troubles are just beginning. When Pinocchio returns home he discovers that Geppetto has gone searching for him, and has yet to return. Learning the Monstro the Whale may have swallowed Geppetto, Pinocchio goes seeking Monstro, finding him. The encounter with Monstro, the rescue of Geppetto and the end of this movie forms one of the greatest endings of any animated movie.
I was quite fascinated by the difference of opinions between reviewers regarding this movie. Most reviewers find Pinocchio to be a great classic tale of innocence and selflessness. However, a small minority of reviewers finds Pinocchio to be scary for young children, or they believe the acting and singing to be horrible.
I watched Pinocchio as a very small child, and was absolutely in love with the movie. Had VCRs or DVDs existed back in the 1960s, I would have insisted that we have Pinocchio so I could watch it again (and again). We need to permit our children to understand fear so that they may conquer their fear. I am unafraid of whales, though sharks make me nervous. I saw "Jaws" as an adult. Which do you think had the greater effect on me?
As for the singing, many people find that Cliff Edwards singing sends chills down their back. I am similarly impressed. Few people are able to put the kind of emotion into a song the way Cliff Edwards did; certainly very few in this era of throwaway pop. The score and the song "When You Wish Upon a Star" received two Academy Awards and an ASCAP award.
The acting in this movie was very good. Animated films tend to be a bit dramatic because they are often larger-than-life, and the acting well matched the animation in this movie. I consider the acting in this movie to be phenomenal when compared to the acting in other animated films.
Walt Disney created an animation masterpiece with Pinocchio. This film came during a creative peak for Disney, along with the great, experimental and often misunderstood "Fantasia." This movie is a rarity among movies in that it is suitable for all normal family members. The youngest members of the family may benefit from adult attendance to explain certain aspects of the movie. This movie does contain a number of very wonderful and subtle morals that Walt Disney smoothly integrated with the story. Lovers of family films and animated films will absolutely need this one for their collection. Enjoy!
On: 2005-11-13
I have 4 grandchildren they all have this dvd. Of course I bought it for them. I never tire of watching Pinocchio.Its one Disney movie I hope they never remake It.I give this dvd 10 Stars ************
by: jenna1998 On: 2005-11-13
This is listed under the Gold Classic Collection.Are there any for sale? Or just the Limited Issue Dvd. My friend bought the Limited Edition Dvd. There were no Gold Classics available to buy.
by: wanderingtaran On: 2005-10-15
Walt Disneys 1940 Pinocchio is the classic tale of misguided innocence in the dark and sinister world of greed and temptation. The tale of a little wooden puppet completely naive about the evil surrounding him, the most perfect start to a grand and spooky tale which begun in a beautiful starry night.
The old, kind-hearted toy maker Gepetto had just finished his latest masterpiece, a wooden string puppet that showed off the most beautiful colors and grade, however, the toy maker feared that it was still missing something, a life. So, that night Gepetto made a wish upon a shining star, wishing for the life of his "Pinocchio." That same night, a beautiful blue fairy payed a visit to Gepettos workshop and brought his wish to life.
Having the wise Jimminy Cricket for a conscience, Pinocchio sets off in the real world in the task of leaving for school, unfortunately some wrong turns take him into the darker worlds of pure evil and greed. Bad influences are a strong match for Pinocchio and his faithful companion, but Pinocchios rising spirit helps him overcome temptations and mis-guidances and bring him back to the warmth of his home and gain his hearts greatest desire.
This outstanding film was the second full-length animated feature completed by Walt Disney and one of his finest masterpieces. Id recommend renting the film for kids and grown-ups alike are sure to love it. When it comes to buying, I suggest waiting for the future Platinum release that should hit the shelves withing a few years.
On: 2005-10-14
Walt Disneys 1940 Pinocchio is the classic tale of misguided innocence in the dark and sinister world of greed and temptation. The tale of a little wooden puppet completely naive about the evil surrounding him, the most perfect start to a grand and spooky tale which begun in a beautiful starry night.
The old, kind-hearted toy maker Gepetto had just finished his latest masterpiece, a wooden string puppet that showed off the most beautiful colors and grade, however, the toy maker feared that it was still missing something, a life. So, that night Gepetto made a wish upon a shining star, wishing for the life of his "Pinocchio." That same night, a beautiful blue fairy payed a visit to Gepettos workshop and brought his wish to life.
Having the wise Jimminy Cricket for a conscience, Pinocchio sets off in the real world in the task of leaving for school, unfortunately some wrong turns take him into the darker worlds of pure evil and greed. Bad influences are a strong match for Pinocchio and his faithful companion, but Pinocchios rising spirit helps him overcome temptations and mis-guidances and bring him back to the warmth of his home and gain his hearts greatest desire.
This outstanding film was the second full-length animated feature completed by Walt Disney and one of his finest masterpieces. Id recommend renting the film for kids and grown-ups alike are sure to love it. When it comes to buying, I suggest waiting for the future Platinum release that should hit the shelves withing a few years.
by: Anonymous On: 2005-09-29
ive always loved this one and all the older disney movies even the new ones actually thats almost all ive watched growing up for years and everyone else loved the movies too when i was little id watch these everyday since i was like 4 maybe 5 i dont know ive lost count and there still good after all these years!!!
by: joe_gillis_2000 On: 2005-09-15
The one-two whammy of audience and critical indifference to "Pinocchio" and "Fantasia" killed Walt Disneys desire to experiment with the limits of animation in the 1940s. From then on, play it safe was his motto. This may be one of the greatest tragedies to beset popular American culture in the 20th century; despite the depths of pretension and kitch in "Fantasia," it was at least evidence of a spirited mind in pursuit of the unattained -- but "Pinocchio" must have broken old Walts heart. There are visual effects in this movie that remained unchallenged until the digital age, and its worth recalling that every single one of them was drawn by hand. It has one of the most beautiful and exciting musical scores in the history of the movies (I cant hear Cliff Edwards high, pure falsetto holding that final note of "When You Wish Upon a Star" without chills), a deeply plangent sense of emotion that never tips over into bathos, and a wealth of detail that is still staggering after 65 years. But it may be too dark a movie to attain the popularity of more cheerful Disney cartoons like "Snow White" -- although even that one can frighten the tots. Now: where is the double-disc Special Platinum Edition???
On: 2005-09-14
The one-two whammy of audience and critical indifference to "Pinocchio" and "Fantasia" killed Walt Disneys desire to experiment with the limits of animation in the 1940s. From then on, play it safe was his motto. This may be one of the greatest tragedies to beset popular American culture in the 20th century; despite the depths of pretension and kitch in "Fantasia," it was at least evidence of a spirited mind in pursuit of the unattained -- but "Pinocchio" must have broken old Walts heart. There are visual effects in this movie that remained unchallenged until the digital age, and its worth recalling that every single one of them was drawn by hand. It has one of the most beautiful and exciting musical scores in the history of the movies (I cant hear Cliff Edwards high, pure falsetto holding that final note of "When You Wish Upon a Star" without chills), a deeply plangent sense of emotion that never tips over into bathos, and a wealth of detail that is still staggering after 65 years. But it may be too dark a movie to attain the popularity of more cheerful Disney cartoons like "Snow White" -- although even that one can frighten the tots. Now: where is the double-disc Special Platinum Edition???
by: booksatrandom On: 2005-09-09
I have nothing but praise for this truly great Walt Disney classic.
Of course the animation and music are superb and excellent. I am glad it is available on DVD. It should be made readily available for future generations to treasure and enjoy.
by: york_april On: 2005-09-08
This dvd has close captioning which cannot be taken off which is distracting to the kids. It would appear that this isnt an original copy.
by: spresley@bigplanet.com On: 2005-09-04
Love the animation, the detail, colors, Blue Fairy. A timeless story for all ages.
by: indy31 On: 2005-06-24
The second feature-length Disney animated movie PINOCCHIO is a perennial childrens favorite, however it differs from other films in tone and strays too far from Carlo Collodis book, but perhaps thats a good thing. The films morals are too heavy-handed and the animation doesnt quite sparkle like SNOW WHITE and DUMBO, but this has been a very impressionable film in Hollywood history, particularly on filmmaker Steven Spielberg (Close Encounters) and is hailed by critics and audiences alike. The songs are memorable and catchy, and the underwater scenes with Pinocchio and Monstro are the highlight of the film. However Collodis aforementioned book arguably overly-influenced the movies final tenor. Ive never been a big aficionado of the book (Pinocchio kills Jiminy Cricket then Pinocchio gets hung up on a tree then dies (!) Animal mutilation, dismemberment, death, despair, destruction, all dished out in spades. Therefore it seems unfair to criticize the film for its darker moments, considering the large amount of omitted scenes. But this still isnt my favorite, and its too scary for some kids. A classic in some quarters, but not perfect.
by: spiritchild On: 2005-05-07
Pinocchio is planned to be re-released on a platinum/special edition (the time has not been announced yet).
The first limited issue release of this DVD was weak. Disney then re-released Pinocchio on "Gold Collection", but many of the disk inside were still limited issue disk. The limited edition DVD contains no bonus features and has a modest transfer (The sound is excellent, but the picture is sometimes grainy and color is in need of restoration).
Basically, Disney gave this film and viewers the shaft (on the first DVD release). Pinnochio Platinum wont be out till at least 2007, but it may be worth the wait. I hope when the new DVD comes out that Disney does not censor it (as they have with other DVD titles such as Melody Time).
(NOTE: the little mermaid is scheduled for platinum in 2006). Dont miss Cinderella platinum in fall 2005
by: babbil4900 On: 2005-05-05
if you honestly, seriously, loved your kid, and wanted him to be safe and not expose him to innappropriate stuff, this should not be shown to him. This DVD/VHS is chock full of useless stupid nonsense that I never liked. I think that if you wanted to watch something educational, watch some presidential speech.. or rugrats.. none of these new age cartoons or old age cartoons such as this. " i want to be a real boy ". Well, for one you cant talk in real life, and, nobody loves you enough for oyu to be real. This video was never one of my favorites, but instead ive always hated it in heart. If I could put a penny on every stupid line said in this movie, I would be richer than mr.gates. This thing has horrible acting, unbelievable bad singing, and it hurts me to watch it.. knowing that people actually encourage kids to watch this. I for one think if blood and groteskness is innappropriate for their kids, this is much much worse. This and the little mermaid.. basically really all the older disney films. If you other people can recall, on the old L.M. VHS box, there was a ..Long... golden.. figure in the background of the castle. Remember? That just shows how uncalled for this is, and how all this money thats being made is going tot he wrong people..... over at disney..
Avoid this film, and L.M. at all costs!
Sincerely from the heart of,
Me.Alex.
On: 2005-05-04
if you honestly, seriously, loved your kid, and wanted him to be safe and not expose him to innappropriate stuff, this should not be shown to him. This DVD/VHS is chock full of useless stupid nonsense that I never liked. I think that if you wanted to watch something educational, watch some presidential speech.. or rugrats.. none of these new age cartoons or old age cartoons such as this. " i want to be a real boy ". Well, for one you cant talk in real life, and, nobody loves you enough for oyu to be real. This video was never one of my favorites, but instead ive always hated it in heart. If I could put a penny on every stupid line said in this movie, I would be richer than mr.gates. This thing has horrible acting, unbelievable bad singing, and it hurts me to watch it.. knowing that people actually encourage kids to watch this. I for one think if blood and groteskness is innappropriate for their kids, this is much much worse. This and the little mermaid.. basically really all the older disney films. If you other people can recall, on the old L.M. VHS box, there was a ..Long... golden.. figure in the background of the castle. Remember? That just shows how uncalled for this is, and how all this money thats being made is going tot he wrong people..... over at disney..
Avoid this film, and L.M. at all costs!
Sincerely from the heart of,
Me.Alex.
by: Anonymous On: 2005-04-12
I recieved the movie in very good condition and on a very timely basis. Thank you
by: damienmecoles On: 2005-03-27
When I was five I cried as my parents took me out of the cinema. I wanted to go back and see it all again! I had to wait thirty years and I was right! Pinocchio is probably my favourite Walt Disney film. No money was spared as scene after scene of this 1938 film blew me away with all the detail on screen. The scene with the clocks in Gepettos house has some of the best animation ever drawn. When you look at later films like The Rescuers, The Great Mouse Detective, Sword In The Stone... you can see that masterpieces like this could not be sustained (and nor could the budgets). Only with The Little Mermaid in 1988 did the Disney renaissance begin.
by: chris4peeps On: 2005-02-10
Disneys charming animated film called Pinnochio is a beautifully animated and entertainingly told piece of movie history. This is definitely a classic, in all scopes of the imagination.
by: reallyhipman On: 2004-11-16
A well-done movie from Disney. A great kids movie, and the adults will find much to love here too. Jiminy Cricket really steals the show- just watch the scene where he comes into the pool hall where Pinocchio is smoking cigars and starts Jiminy yelling at him. I thought the scene was very funny. A good movie for the kids, slightly more mature than other Disney flicks, but something that the children will like.
However, I dont understand why parents say they dont like showing this to infants and toddlers. Fact is, a two year old child will not understand what is going on very well, if at all. The transformation scene, the smoking, destruction, and the gun under Geppettos pillow goes right over any young childs head. If a child tells you that the movie scares them, you simply put the DVD in a closet and leave it there- period. The movie was made about 2/3 of a century ago, when people didnt make such a big stink over EVERYTHING that happens in a childrens movie. And please use your head- if you are thoroughly convinced that Pinocchio will scare your toddler out of his socks, then purchase him a copy of "Hoop De Doo! Its A Wiggly Party" or "The Care Bears Movie". Be warned, though- your child may not like these sugary sweet, super censored programs any more than you do.
On: 2004-11-15
A well-done movie from Disney. A great kids movie, and the adults will find much to love here too. Jiminy Cricket really steals the show- just watch the scene where he comes into the pool hall where Pinocchio is smoking cigars and starts Jiminy yelling at him. I thought the scene was very funny. A good movie for the kids, slightly more mature than other Disney flicks, but something that the children will like.
However, I dont understand why parents say they dont like showing this to infants and toddlers. Fact is, a two year old child will not understand what is going on very well, if at all. The transformation scene, the smoking, destruction, and the gun under Geppettos pillow goes right over any young childs head. If a child tells you that the movie scares them, you simply put the DVD in a closet and leave it there- period. The movie was made about 2/3 of a century ago, when people didnt make such a big stink over EVERYTHING that happens in a childrens movie. And please use your head- if you are thoroughly convinced that Pinocchio will scare your toddler out of his socks, then purchase him a copy of "Hoop De Doo! Its A Wiggly Party" or "The Care Bears Movie". Be warned, though- your child may not like these sugary sweet, super censored programs any more than you do.
by: normajeanebaker2 On: 2004-09-07
My dearest friend Steven Spielberg, tonight, history was made as Garry Hixon Jr. presented Pinocchio in Mirror Vision for the first time in history. It was the most amazing thing I have ever seen in my life. It was a life changing experience, Ill never be the same. This is your time capsule Steven, he had been wishing this since he was 10 years old. Steven, right now, tonight, your young again, your just breezing through time, choose the things youll be proud of, the things that last. When Steven Spielberg wishes upon a mirror vision star, if you believe, then I believe, when you wish upon a mirror vision star, makes no difference who you are, any mirror vision that you dream, will come to drew, if you heart is in your mirror vision, no request is too extreme, anything you heart desires, will come to drew, like a bolt out of the blue, mirror vision steps in and sees you thru, timeline-Monday, Sept. 6th, 2004, presented at 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., Garry and Steven were here, and watched Pinocchio in mirror vision for the first time in history, history was made, and little stevens wish came true, goodnight steven my friend, love garry hixon and hello to drew barrymore
by: littlesorrel2 On: 2004-08-30
MY FIRST MOVIE!
This movie has a special place in my heart in that I first saw it at about age 5 with my dad and it was a momentous occasion. I still remember that day because it was the first time I had ever set foot into a movie theatre. And theres a moral to the story-dont tell a lie. Poor Pinocchio, every time he even attempted to tell a lie, the whole world knew about it just by looking at his nose! When you wish upon a star is one of my favorite Disney songs, and I love Jiminy Cricket.
Look at the crowds bleeding with laughter, at the way you entertain at beckon call. They dont see beyond the lights, or the painted background.
THEY JUST LIKE TO SEE YOU FALL.-Jars of Clays song A Boy on a String
by: Anonymous On: 2004-08-21
Ive always hated this movie, not due to its "violent and disturbing content" but because of its bad acting and pure stupidity. This movie is a childrens movie, anyone who complains that its too scary and violent for kids is out of thier minds and are being way too uptight ( people like this are the reason why anime is so butchered when it comes to the States!). But thats not what Im here to talk about, Im here to talk about how bad this movie is. Its voice actors arent that good, the wooden boy has equally wooden acting, and the ending of the movie made no sense whatsoever! Come on Disney! Explain to me why Pinoccio suddenly drowns at the end of the movie when earlier on the was walking at the botton of the ocean talking to the fish without any indication that he needs air to live in the first place?! It was just plain stupid, a move to make the viewers feel bad for the little hero, when his death makes no sense!
by: animelover67 On: 2004-06-26
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who youare, anything you heart desires will come to you." Youve heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from? It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disneys second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940. I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time. This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow. This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why. Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself. Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son. Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!! It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!! People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone. The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have. He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchios conscience. Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong. This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy. Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-) Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!! Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently. Its a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in childrens hearts. Go out and buy this for youre children
by: Anonymous On: 2004-06-02
Almost all Disney movies are based on dreams that became a reality in the end. Here in this movie Gepetto (Wood Carver) who wished for Pinocchio to become a real boy.You may say this is just a movie but it discusses one very important aspect of life. Its very important for young kids to say the TRUTH or you may end up like Pinocchio.When He kept telling lies his nose grew longer eventhough hes been warned by Jiminy Cricket (his conscience)to tell the truth.
It also discusses true friendship and trust. Jiminy Cricket was upset when Pinocchio told him that hes with his best friend (other kid)on Treasure Island, Jiminy thought he is the bestfriend of Pinocchio.
Above all,this is one very touching film.
by: mistylavenderstar On: 2004-05-11
This certainly is not one of my favorite Disney movies. I just really didnt get in to the movie I guess but then I never really cared for this Fairy Tale either.
The voice actors are good and the scenery, and colors are great. But for some reason this one really just didnt hit home for me.
by: mistylavenderstar On: 2004-05-10
This certainly is not one of my favorite Disney movies. I just really didnt get in to the movie I guess but then I never really cared for this Fairy Tale either.
The voice actors are good and the scenery, and colors are great. But for some reason this one really just didnt hit home for me.
by: luc1lou On: 2004-04-28
"Doesnt matter who you are, if you wish upon a star your dreams come true."
I saw this movie when I was very small and still to this day LOVE Jiminy Cricket. The Blue Fairy has always stuck in my memory, I just love her. This is such a classic, a must see for everyone. I am personally outraged by the fact that so many parents are up in arms because their children "SHOULD NOT be exposed to this kind of imagery." What a bunch of crap. I saw it and Im 15 now, I turned out fine. Anyway, once people get over themselves and their prudish, overprotective ways of thinking they will see how wonderful this movie really is. But enough of my ranting, Pinocchio is a masterpiece.
by: disneyreviewer On: 2004-01-23
As a kid, my friends and I never wanted to watch this movie. It wasnt until I was in my teens when I decided to give this film another shot. I mean, if the theme song, "When You Wish Upon A Star," is used on Disneys logo, then a lot of people must like it. I have loved this film from then on. This DVD release is very lacking, because it was one of their first DVDs released. The picture and sound where restored, but the only special feature is the original trailor. It is out of print and hard to comeby, but it will be part of the "Platinum Edition" series, so Id wait a couple of years for the 2-disc release.
by: oldprofessor On: 2003-12-12
I am 70 yrs. old, and saw all of the great Disney movies on their original release as a child. Lest my qualifications are questioned, I have TWO PhDs, and am a retired professor who at the moment am building computers and reading at least 2 books a week. Ive travelled all of the "lower" 48, and visited over 20 (again) in the last 3 years.
We have become a nation so frightened and split into groups that teach children fear and hatred. Im afraid of what the children will become. I have a dozen grand children (at the moment) and have bought them all copies of the my fovorite Disney movies, with Snow White, Pinnocchio and (original) Fantasia at the top. Neither I, nor any of my friends my age, thought of those early movies as anything but what they were--wonderful stories. An example of the worst of our society is Eisner--a monster who takes movies off the market for years, and has stated he wont release the great folk tale "The Song of the South" because it MIGHT be "politically incorrect," an ugly concept that divides our country into "clans" walking on eggs in fear of "offending" some other group. I have watched most of the movies with each of my grand children, and SURPRISE, they loved them and are growing up to be intellegent and open minded, without fear or hate or whining. They learn their values from parents,grand parents and friends, not from movies and not from the twisted ideas of people they are pushed to associate with.
by: novarro On: 2003-10-17
Walt Disney in my belief never topped his stunning achievement in movie animation with "Pinocchio", the classic childrens story based on the equally classic late 19th Century story by Carlo Collodi. Indeed this story is truly for children and adults alike with its message of the universal value of honesty towards others and ones self, and the real worth to be obtained from personal integrity in all things. Released in 1940 after the stunning success of Disneys first excursion into animated feature films with "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", "Pinocchio", is the studios supreme achievement that has enchanted and enthralled each new generation with its simple message and delightful characters."Pinocchio", tells the story of a kind and loving woodcarver named Geppetto who produces beautiful clocks, toys and music boxes out of all kinds of wood. He is loved and admired for his great skill however his one wish in life is to have a son as he has no children. Looking at his completed wooden puppet of a young boy he names him Pinocchio and goes to sleep praying that he might have a son just like Pinocchio. During the night the Blue Fairy appears in Geppettos house and grants his fervent wish bringing the little wooden puppet to life. Her words to Pinnochio are "prove yourself to be brave, truthful and unselfish and someday you will be a real boy". To help him in this task the Blue fairy provides him with a "conscience" in the form of Jiminy Cricket who is to look out for him. Upon waking Geppetto is delighted to discover that his wish has been granted and that Pinocchio has come to life. His joy however is short lived when after sending Pinocchio off to begin his schooling the naive puppet is abducted by a sinister Fox called Honest John who takes Pinocchio to the travelling carnival of Stromboli a cruel and nasty man who imprisons Pinnochio and forces him to perform in his show. Alerted by Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio is rescued by the Blue Fairy after he learns a hard lesson about telling the truth when his nose grows larger with each successive lie. Heading home they run afoul of Honest John again who in another of his schemes is working with his client Coachman in getting boys to be sent to Pleasure Island in the belief that they are going on vacation but with the real intent of turning them into donkeys to work as slaves for Coachman in his mines. Once on the island everything seems wonderful as the amusement park offers everything they want for free and the boys are given a constant supply of drink and alcohol. Only later is the sinister purpose of the island discovered by Jiminy Cricket by which time it is too late as the boys have begun to turn into donkeys and are being loaded on a boat being sent to the mines. Before Pinocchios transformation is complete Jiminy and Pinocchio escape and return home again only to find the heart broken Geppetto has gone looking for Pinocchio and has been swallowed by a famous whale called Monstro. Going under water to try and find him the pair encounter the deadly Monstro who also engulfs them and by a miracle they find Geppetto along with Figaro the cat and Cleo the goldfish safe and sound. Starting a fire inside the whale they manage to be blown outside and after a terrifying pursuit by a very angry Monstro manage to safely get to the shore. Once safely home the transformation promised by the Blue Fairy if Pinocchio displayed the qualities of bravery honesty and kindness to others, takes place and the wooden Pinocchio becomes a real boy of flesh and blood and the son Geppetto always wanted. "Pinocchio", is a timeless story graced with beautiful characters that all too often show their human side. I believe this very human element to the characters is what has endeared this film to generations of movie goers. Winner of the 1940 Academy Award for Best song with the unforgettable "When You Wish Upon A Star" which has become the Disney trade mark tune ever since, the production has so much to offer in every department. The quality of the animation is peerless here and the modern Disney efforts could not compare with it in overall quality and execution. The characters created from the original work by Carlo Collodi are just as memorable with Pinocchio the unforgettable little puppet who learns to become a real boy, being one of the best characters to come out of the Disney films. Voiced by child actor Dickie Jones, he gives Pinocchio just the right elements of boyish innocence and show biz panache to make him a delightful character. Jiminy Cricket also is without doubt one of the strengths in this story with his "conscience" job often leading to amusing and hair raising situations that even he often doesnt want to be a part of. Treasured as a great childrens classic "Pinocchio", certainly has its scary elements such as the boys turning into donkeys and the frightening battle with the whale at sea which might not be suitable for really young children. However apart from that adults can enjoy this story just as much as children with its age old moral lesson of doing good by others for your own good. I have loved "Pinocchio", since I was a child and along with "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", is the film that best represents the true brillance of Walt Disneys creativity. Promise yourself at least one viewing of this great classic as it will move you as no other animated feature can with its simple message and beautiful characters.
by: Anonymous On: 2003-09-22
While Pinocchio may be considered one of Disneys classics, some of the scenes/content in this older animation would not be shown or considered appropriate in todays childrens movies. Gepetto is shown smoking in bed. Many of the characters smoke. Young boys are brought -- as a treat -- to a place where they can smoke, "drink" (something frothy like beer or root beer), and act very destructively as much as they want. The boys are tricked into thinking this is a fun place to go but are turned into donkeys and sold to work in mines -- never again to see their families. In the end, old Gepetto does get his wish. Pinocchio is a real boy. And old Gepetto gets to share his bed with the young boy. While all such scenes could be used for discussing appropriate behavior, I wouldnt recommend showing this movie to children. I made the mistake of showing this to my 4 and 2 yr olds. This is one those films I wont show over and over.
by: greatmoviecritic On: 2003-08-13
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who youare, anything you heart desires will come to you." Youve heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from? It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disneys second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940. I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time. This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow. This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why. Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself. Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son. Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!! It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!! People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone. The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have. He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchios conscience. Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong. This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy. Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-) Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!! Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently. Its a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in childrens hearts. Go out and buy this for youre children
by: jedimack On: 2003-08-12
Judging by its Amazon sales rank of 177, this movie would rank 3rd in popularity. We rank it 21. The movie was produced as a high quality, entertaining story that has endured in the culture over the years. Who doesnt know the song "When you wish upon a star". Old guys like me can remember Walt Disney doing his Sunday night TV show and his costar Jiminy Cricket, who was lucky as can be because hell live to be 103. From marionette to saving his father this is a grand adventure and a solid 3 star movie.We had a lot of fun by gathering the family together to rank the 41 Disney movies we have that include some cartoon work. All the kids, ages 6 to 27, participated along with mother and dad. Lion King was selected number 1 of the 41 as the family favorite, but narrowly. Peter Pan was 2. Petes Dragon 3, Beauty & the beast 4, Sleeping Beauty 5, Snow White 6, Robin Hood 7, 101 Dalmatians 8, Fox and the hound 9, Cinderella is 10th, Rescuers 11, Hunchback of ND 12, Aladdin 13, Aladdin King of Thieves 14, Jungle Book 15, Little Mermaid 16, Hercules 17, Winnie the Pooh 18, Rescuers Down Under 19 and Sword in the Stone 20.
by: grubrux On: 2003-04-16
The 1940 classic "Pinocchio" is one of my all time favorite Disney films. Created with no computer animation, the film features the talents of Dickie Jones (Pinocchio), Cliff Edwards (Jiminy Cricket),Chistian Rub (Geppeto), Walter Catlett (J. Worthington Foulfellow) and others, and that wonderful song ("When You Wish Upon A Star") the film remains a beloved classic since its creation in 1940, which means the film was made 63 yrs ago! The 3 pt. rating is because the DVD offers no bonus features but the 1940 trailer.
by: rachel_what On: 2003-04-06
My three year old loves this movie, and sings along with most of the songs. The great songs and story arent the only treasure within this movie though, we also find a wonderful moral lesson which isnt specific to any particular religion, but is common to all religious and moral principles.Since Pinocchio was only born yesterday(pun intended) hes not versed in the ways of the world, so we get to see him fall into bad company when he doesnt listen to his consious, Jiminy Cricket. What an excellent way to be able to bring up the subject of people out there who arent all good and are out to only help themselves and let everyone else pay the consequences of thier actions! Seeing this lesson twice repeated in the movie, first when Pinocchio is sold to Stromboli, and then again when he is tricked into going to pleasure iasle shows no good can come from listening to these kinds of users. While some find the boys turning into donkeys to be disturbing, maybe a bit of disturbance at the consequences of doing the wrong thing isnt so bad? When I saw it as a child I dont remember being terrified or getting nightmares, and my children seem to be fine after seeing this movie many times. Pinocchio must also find courage, intelligence and perserverance to save Gepetto after he escapes with Jiminys help. The movie is really a hopefull message that even after someone has strayed off the right path they can straighten things out again if they really work hard at it.
by: zelda8483 On: 2003-03-30
I WANT THOSE TWO HOURS OF MY LIFE BACK!! this is so NOT a Disney classic, even though everyone seems to think so! DO NOT SEE IT!! YOU WILL DIE!!
by: zelda8483 On: 2003-03-29
I WANT THOSE TWO HOURS OF MY LIFE BACK!! this is so NOT a Disney classic, even though everyone seems to think so! DO NOT SEE IT!! YOU WILL DIE!!
by: emotionboy On: 2003-03-20
What can I say about Pinocchio that you dont already know. We already know it is a timeless Disney classic. The animation detail is about the finest youll find anywhere. Even with the great detail of recent animated features such as Atlantis and Treasure Planet youll never find the kind of hard work that went into Pinocchio. Today Disney have a legion of animators and computers, yet in 1940 Disney had about 10. The work they did was simply amazing and Pinocchio deserves to remain timeless. In the UK, Disney have just released a Special Edition DVD. The special features include a making of which was made in 2000, a couple of sing along songs, a couple of short cartoons featuring Jiminy Cricket and a Search For Jiminy Cricket game where you have to be Pinocchios conscience. The highlight here though is the original 1940 trailer which although not being spectacular will definitely make collectors happy. Unfortunately though, this single disc DVD is very disappointing as a Special Edition DVD. It is understandable that there might not be much original behind the scenes footage, but Im sure we could have more featurettes on how Pinocchio has helped bring about the animation of today. Heres hoping a Platinum Edition is released in the US. Finally, the reason Pinocchio only receives 4 stars from me is that although it is a masterpiece in itself, I dont consider it to be the best of the bunch. Even as a child I found it long winded and dull colored. There is more defined color to the DVD version but the story is still long winded, sorry! A must for true Disney fans though!
by: scotsladdie On: 2003-02-24
Gepetto, a kindly old woodcarver, creates a little puppet boy of pine and names him Pinocchio. Because the old man, who has been generous and good all his life, loves children - but has none of his own - the Blue Fairy brings the marionette to life in order to be a son to him. She tells Pinocchio that in order to be a real boy, he must exhibit the virtues of truth, courage & selflessness...A timeless excursion into the world of classic childhood fantasy, this 194O Disney picture will no doubt be treasured in 2O4O: its theme is too timeless to date badly. The film cost the Disney studio 2.5 million dollars to produce & out of the total 2 million (!) drawings, a mere 3OO,OOO were ultimately used in the finished film. Dickie Jones, who was a child actor who infrequently appeared in OUR GANG comedies, lent his voice for the title character, while Evelyn Venable provided the Blue Fairy with vocal chords. Frankie Darro vocalised Lampwick & Cliff Edwards, as Jiminy Cricket, sang the AA winning song WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR. The original story was adapted from the 1882 novel by Carlo Collodi "La Avventure dPinocchio".
by: gnomekid On: 2003-02-02
Thats right, you heard me! I hate this movie! I used to give it two stars, or maybe even three, but over time it just got worse to me.One of the many misunderstandings about this film is that it is a kids movie....when I was a little kid, I found it quite scary, depressing, and even disturbing (the scene where the boy turns into a donkey still sends shivers up my spine). However. . . . . . Jiminy Cricket shouldve won an Oscar! He is the true heart and soul of the film. He is very, very funny!!! Some might say that Pinocchio is the best. But he comes off as an idiotic little brat/punk. And supporting Oscar to Cleo the cat! Hes awesome! I hate the goldfish, however! All those who say this is one of Disneys best: BAH HUMBUG!
by: gnomekid On: 2003-02-01
Thats right, you heard me! I hate this movie! I used to give it two stars, or maybe even three, but over time it just got worse to me.One of the many misunderstandings about this film is that it is a kids movie....when I was a little kid, I found it quite scary, depressing, and even disturbing (the scene where the boy turns into a donkey still sends shivers up my spine). However. . . . . . Jiminy Cricket shouldve won an Oscar! He is the true heart and soul of the film. He is very, very funny!!! Some might say that Pinocchio is the best. But he comes off as an idiotic little brat/punk. And supporting Oscar to Cleo the cat! Hes awesome! I hate the goldfish, however! All those who say this is one of Disneys best: BAH HUMBUG!
by: emfama On: 2003-01-30
Disneys animated film, Pinocchio, is the story of a marionette, which is also known as a puppet on strings. He is fashioned out of Gepettos own hands, and steals the puppet masters heart -- wooden or real, Gepetto loves him anyway. Gepetto has this wish for Pinocchio to be a real boy. He wishes it on a shooting star Okay, moving on.
The Blue Fairy comes to visit the wooden doll while his master sleeps. She grants the man his wish. Suddenly the doll is talking and walking and dancing and singing. Hes an all around entertainer that wooden boy.
A small cricket named "Jiminey" has taken up residence in Gepettos home. Blue Fairy deems "Jiminey Cricket" Pinocchios conscious. This means he will be that "voice of reasoning" for Pinoc., to help him live a true and honest life and to be brave. If Pinocchio can do all this, Blue Fairy says, he then will be a real boy. "Let your conscious be your guide" is what the glowing girl reminds him. Does he listen? Does he stray from the straight and narrow path? Youll have to watch to find out. Its a story full of adventures of good and bad, and fun musical numbers. My 2 yr old son loves the songs, "I got no strings", "Hi Diddle de", and already knows most of the words to them. Other songs in the film include "Give a little whistle", and "When you wish upon a star". In addition to these charming numbers is a majestically charged musical score which highlights this geniune piece of Disney magic.
Pinocchio learns that honesty, bravery, and unselfish acts help him lead a better life.(If only some of us out here in the real world could have a conscious like him!) He faces big rough creeps that want to use him and throw him away, and he also challenges the whale, Monstro in order to save Gepettos life. Some of these scenes are frightening. As much as I do like this movie, I was utterly disturbed by the whole "Pleasure Island" scene, where boys were being taken to and turned into donkeys because they were stupid. Watching Lampke(Pinocs new friend) being transformed was bizarre and creepy. But thats how the story goes...
I like this movie for its music and story of the boy, but there are those few sideline parts that creeped me out. This is not among my faves of the Disney films.
by: jtkalcich On: 2002-12-09
I love this movie because it brought back a childhood memory in vivid color. I got mine out of a boxed set released a couple of years ago so I dont know if ti is as full featured as this one. Watching the original trailer.
by: stephen2001 On: 2002-12-02
Pinocchio was Walt Disneys 2nd animated movie and 1st with the main character as a male. This movie was out 3 years after Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The movie is about a puppet who wants to be a real boy. And his father also wants him to be a real boy. As the movie opens, a cricket named Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Ewards) comes to the home of a puppetmaster/maker Geppetto (Christian Rub) who is about to finish a puppet whom he names Pinocchio (Jones). And before going to see sleep that night Geppetto makes a wish that Pinocchio become a real boy. And a blue fairy shows up after Geppetto goes to sleep and brings Pinocchio to life. And tells him if he can prove himself brave, truthful, and unselfish that one day he will become a real boy. She also tells Pinocchio that he has to know right from wrong. And dubs Jiminy as Pinocchios conscience. And promises Jiminy that someday he may get a badge. When Pinocchio makes some noise he wakes up Geppetto and at first thinks he is dreaming. Pinocchio runs 88 minutes. To bad Disney put htis out of stock on 1/31/02. But look at the bright side, in about 10 years, Disney will re-release this movie.
by: len_ On: 2002-11-26
Of course, its got a nice theme to it. Kids love the typical Disney songs. Pinnochio, Geppetto, Jiminy Cricket, Good Fairy and others. Even the villains are funny. My three year old and five year old both like it and adults enjoy it too. There are some dark scenes here with drinking and smoking done by some bad influences on Pinnochio. I guess that stuff flew by in 1940 when it was made.
by: andrea_mags On: 2002-11-13
I bought this dvd about 4 months ago, my daughter already knows the lines, she loves it. It is a charming, entertaining and funny movie for the whole family. The only downsize that I found for this movie is that it is too expensive for the features it includes. Theres just the original theatrical trailer, which is just a scene of the movie, which is not something you will die to see. I think Disney could have include a short documentary of how the idea of Pinocchio was conceived, or the origins of the story, or maybe a video of when you whish upon a star as they did with Snow Whites Some day my Prince will come and maybe a cartoon, just something to compensate the price. Besides that, it is a wonderful movie by the story itself.
by: spacequestfan On: 2002-09-27
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who youare, anything you heart desires will come to you." Youve heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from? It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disneys second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940. I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time. This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow. This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why. Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself. Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son. Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!! It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!! People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone. The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have. He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchios conscience. Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong. This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy. Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-) Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!! Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently. Its a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in childrens hearts. Go out and buy this for youre children
On: 2002-09-26
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who youare, anything you heart desires will come to you." Youve heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from? It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disneys second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940. I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time. This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow. This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why. Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself. Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son. Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!! It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!! People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone. The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have. He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchios conscience. Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong. This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy. Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-) Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!! Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently. Its a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in childrens hearts. Go out and buy this for youre children
by: popop212 On: 2002-08-17
Pinnochio is one of the best animated Disney film. It is thrilling frightening Dark and light hearted. It is beautiful and funny. You probably already know the story. Gepetto makes a puppet that comes alive. He is inquisitive and cute. But he wants to be a real boy. it has great songs not to mention Disneys most popular song the Disney theme Song, when you wish upon a star. Get this. One of the best films of all time Disney animated or not. A timeless clasic that can withstand the test of time!
by: Anonymous On: 2002-07-22
Its not my # 1 favorite Disney flick but Pinocchio is good. I have watched this with some of my younger relatives and the little ones seemed to get a little bored and fidgety after awhile but the older ones seemed to like Pinocchio more, anyway I think its probably an essential for the collection of Disney videos.
by: bluecollarprincess On: 2002-07-12
...
Its really a dark movie for little kids (even though I was tiny when I first saw it and it hasnt done me any psychological damage - that I know of!) but I think that it partly seems that way because we adults notice the dark details more than little kids who are just along for the fun-filled Disney ride. So I wouldnt advise against letting little kids watch this unless they are very sensitive (which come to think of it, I was, too, and it didnt scare me...) or have like a strange fear of whales or something else potentially scary in the movie.
Despite the darker aspects, I still misted up when Pinnochio started to cry ("Ill never see my father again!") - yes, I almost cried watching a cartoon in a college class! - but I wasnt alone. Almost every female in the room had the same reaction.
All in all, its not the best Disney movie, but far from the worst! I would recommend it!
by: lynn08 On: 2002-07-02
its a good movie about the pinocchio tale. not my fav disney movie, but its good, good cast, well written, etc.
by: italianca63@yahoo.com On: 2002-06-20
This is the second full length animated feature that Disney released. Right after Snow White. Disney enhanced the film-making technology based on what he learned from in making the first film. This movie, as you know, is great for anyone of any age. What makes this tale special is the magical characters that come to life in color and style. The music is triumphant and the Acadamy Award winning song "When You WIsh Upon A Star" will be sticking with you for a long long time. From the Blue Fairy to Jiminy Cricket - everything has a purpose and there is a great moral lession to be lerned. The DVD is great and the qulaity of the transfer supurb.
by: kona_ On: 2002-06-15
What a timeless classic! Pinocchio tells the story of Gepettos love for his little wooden boy who can walk and talk, and the little boys quest to prove himself worthy to become a real boy! Pinnochio and his pal, Jiminy Cricket have lots of exciting adventures leading to the heartwarming ending with the Blue Fairy. When you wish upon a star...its Disney magic!
by: seramary On: 2002-06-13
Pinocchio Reviewed by Sera Elisabeth Walt Disneys second installment in feature animation was a beautiful tale of a wooden boy whose father wanted him to become real. Set on an adventure with his conscience Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio soon realizes that the road less traveled becomes the road that leads him home, human and into the arms of his father. Sweeping fantasy and good morals take this movie in a startling adventure into Pleasure Island, and down the sea below with Monstro the Whale. Again, this movie has everything to offer the young and young at heart. I give this movie ***** 5 STARS !
by: gurpsgm On: 2002-04-25
Walt Disney said that he considered "Snow White" to be his masterpiece. I hate to disagree with the master, but I think "Pinocchio" should have that honor. Carlos Collodis story of the puppet that becomes a boy has =never= been translated to film better. Everyone knows the story - a lonely puppeteer named Gepetto make a wish to have a son. The Blue Fairy hears his wish, and decides to grant it in an unusual fashion - she brings his most recent creation to life, and gives the -puppet- a chance to prove himself in order to become a boy. Pinocchio has many misadventures while learning lifes lessons, but finally appears to give his "life" when saving his father from the monster whale, Monstro. The Blue Fairy returns and says that the ultimate sacrifice has earned him the ultimate prize - he becomes a live boy! Honored by the Academy Awards for Best Song ("Wish Upon A Star") and Best Score, this movie deserves every award in the book. There has never been more object lessons taught so easily. Dont lie. Be brave. Stay on the path to your goal. And not preachy, either. And the THX restoration of the video and sound makes this a real viewing experience - just as clear and clean as it might have been in the theaters in 1940. The only disappointment I had is with the "extra" material on the DVD. Almost no extra material at all. It just includes the original theatrical trailer, and a French language track. Come on, Disney, give us more about Pinocchio! After seeing what was possible with the recent release of the "platinum" edition of "Snow White", I can only hope that they will eventually turn their energies towards this film as well. Highly recommended for families, espicially families with young children. The "Gold Edition" of the DVD is now officially on moratorium - maybe after that well see the version we want!
by: accroya On: 2002-04-07
I cannot elaborate on all of the incredible reviews here about this timeless classic. Kids love it. I just wonder if Disney will pull a "Peter Pan" on us and release a BETTER version of the DVD in the future. There is basically no bonus material except for the trailer here. Peter Pans first DVD release was similar until they re-released it with much more bonus material in conjuntion with "Return to Neverland."
by: ctolley On: 2002-03-26
This film continues to be the standard against which all animation is measured. To think of all the hours spent in producing all the hand-drawn perfection seen in this film is staggering. Equal notice should be taken of the exceptional score and songs, themselves award-winning. "When You Wish Upon A Star" is so universally known today, one tends to forget it came from this film.
The story of Pinnochio, the little wooden puppet given life for Geppeto the toy maker by the Blue Fairy is well-known. The intensity of the artwork and the tenseness of the story make it immortal. To be honest, very little children should watch with a parent, as some scenes are pretty scary, but I absolutely adore this film.
Looking at the film today, its so hard to believe its over 60 years old! The picture transfer is flawless, and the soundtrack is superb. I do regret one thing: the complete lack of extras on this disc. One would think such an important film to the Disney studios would have been given more of a send-off to DVD, but really thats all I didnt like about the disc.
Please, pay no attention to the lack of extras, just get the DVD for the film itself. Believe me, its so very worth it!
by: toadsalad17 On: 2002-02-11
I saw this movie for the second time last night after a 30-or-so-year gap -- I first saw it when I was a real boy. When youre a kid you are affected strongly by a movie, and when youre an adult you see why. "Pinocchio" is not only touching and scary but a technical achievement on the order of the development of the A-bomb. Such amazingly detailed draftsmanship, such wit in the character movements! Like all the great pre-war Disney cartoons its impressively -- impossibly -- executed but still looks "drawn," unlike the HAL-generated 3-D roboscopic video games the studio does now. You still get the sense of the magic of moving drawings.Only one bonus feature included though -- the 1940 trailer. Worse, some Pleasure-Island jackass has tried to conceal this by giving it its own page: "Bonus Features." There are three of these. One is the trailer. One is a promo for other Disney releases. One is a "back" button. Theres a hypocrisy in a movie about honesty being packaged so sleazily that may not be suitable for younger children.
by: jedidumbledore On: 2002-01-12
The world was still marveling at the astonishing accomplishments the Disney stuido had made with 1937s "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" when this second feature film, "Pinocchio" (and the third, "Fantasia"), came along in 1940. Quite like most of the other early classics and quite unlike some Disney efforts today, this one never grows old and will continue to endure forever. The enchanting story of a little wooden puppet who wanted to become a real boy is here told with what is still stunning anamation and real, emotion-filled characters that will warm your heart. This will not only provide an enjoyable 88 minutes of entertainment but also some wonderful lessons -- lies grow and grow (here, literally); bravery and love always will conquer; do right instead of wrong; bad things happen to you when you do bad things and make bad choices; and, most of all, as Jimminy Cricket says, "Always let your concience be your guide." The DVD itself only contains one bonus feature -- the original 1940 theatrical trailer -- and while many people are quite upset about this (and the fact that the VHS contains a new behind-the-scenes doccumentary whereas neither the rare OOP Limited Issue or current Gold Collection DVD has this), I myself think that the truly timeless animated classic that is the discs centerpiece is reason enough to want to add this wonderful movie to your collection, regardless of the lack of DVD extras. But act quickly - the majestic Blue Fairy and her coworkers at Disney will work their magic once again on January 31, 2002 and discontinue any further printings of this timeless movie for approx. another ten years. So now is the time to make sure that you own all the magic and fun of this amazing animated feature for the next ten years -- and forever.
by: ksmtcorner On: 2001-12-30
Pinocchio is one of my favorite movies and my children love it as well. What a gift it was to get it on DVD! But upon putting it in the player today, found out that the Prince of Egypt was actually on it. The cover and holder showed Pinocchio. This was a very sad mistake by Buena Vista Home Entertainment.
by: ksmtcorner On: 2001-12-29
Pinocchio is one of my favorite movies and my children love it as well. What a gift it was to get it on DVD! But upon putting it in the player today, found out that the Prince of Egypt was actually on it. The cover and holder showed Pinocchio. This was a very sad mistake by Buena Vista Home Entertainment.
by: usfreethinker On: 2001-11-18
The release of Disneys second full length animated film,
"Pinocchio", in 1940, catipulted both the career of Walt Disney, the man, and Walt Disney, the Corperation. Only World War Two hampered a more world wide success of the film, which did exceeding well in America."Pinocchio", which is narrated by Jiminy Cricket, making his first, but not last appearance, in a Disney film, tells the story of a lonely, old woodcarver, Geppetto, who longs for a son.
After creating a wooden marionette in that of a boy, Geppetto wishes the figure could be brought to life. After Geppetto falls asleep, a blue fairy appears in the shop, and magically transforms Pinocchio the marionette, into Pinocchio the living wooden boy. He is not a real boy at this point, but he can think and act as one, and talk like one as well. The angel tells Pinocchio that for him to become a real little boy he must be brave, good, and to never tell a lie. Geppetto is awakened. Entering his shop he discovers Pinocchio is alive. The very next day Pinocchio is sent off to school. Along the way he meets a fox who persuades him to join a puppet show run by an evil man, Stromboli, much to Jiminy Crickets disapproval. Pinocchio is awestruck with the idea and goes on stage for this man. He sings "Ive Got No Strings", while dancing around to the wild enthusiasm of the audience. Stromboli, seeing how popular Pinocchio has become with the audience, becomes greedy, and kidnaps the wooden boy, locking him in a cage. As Jiminy is trying to free him, the angel appears before Pinocchio and asks what has happened. He invents a lie, and as he is telling it, his nose begins to grow. The angel explains that every time Pinocchio tells a lie, this is what is going to happen. After promising never to lie again, the angel restores his nose. But it is not long before Pinocchio is led astray yet again. This time, he joins several other boys who are making their way to Pleasure Island, a place where little boys can endulge in everything that is bad, until their hearts are content. Such bad habits as drinking and smoking are among the "pleasures" these boys indulge themselves in. It is truly an evil place, in more ways than one. Pinocchio, and other boys are magically turning into jackasses, growing ears and tails characteristic of the beast. Jiminy Cricket helps save Pinocchio from a fate worse than death, and they make it make to Geppettos shop, only to be told by the blue angel that the man went to sea and was swallowed by a whale. She tells Pinocchio he is still alive, and he and Jiminy go in search of him. This bravery by Pinocchio is well acknowledged by the angel, and she decides to grant him a very special wish. In many ways, "Pinocchio" is a warning to children that bad things can happen to little boys, and girls, who stray from the path of morality. Indeed, bad things can happen, albeit nothing so dipicted here. "Pinochio" has been considered, by critics, to be Disneys most terrifying animated film of all. In fact, many of the scenes will frighten younger viewers. However, for the older children, "Pinocchio" can be a warm and inspiring message to always do good, for the sake of good itself.
by: dvdcollector18 On: 2001-08-30
Good thing Pinocchio was not the 1st Disney Classic DVD that I bought (its my 5th), because it would have completely overshadowed the other masterpieces that are in my DVD collection. Disneys 2nd film is a terrific viewing experience, in this 60th Anniversary THX Certified Limited Issue DVD. I hadnt seen Pinocchio in over a decade, so I was really looking forward to rediscovering the movie on the DVD format. Seeing it brought back a rush of great memories of the first times that I saw it, it was really nostalgic. The film is vibrant in its great animation, and magical wonder that makes this movie appealing to any movie lover. Unfortunately, only Walt Disney could create such classics like this one. Yes, Disney has released some GREAT classics ("Lion King", "The Little Mermaid", "Beauty & The Beast") but they are not the same as the ones he worked on himself. The film also features one of the best: "When You Wish Upon A Star", a song that seems to have been inducted into American culture over the past 60 years.
The double Oscar winning Pinocchio remains one of Disneys greatest landmarks, and should be on the top of the list for those who want to collect these great films . Get this classic today!
by: paperbackriter On: 2001-08-22
A timeless classic which can be apreciated over and over again by people of all ages. "Pinocchio", Disneys second full-length animated feature, is one of the best ever. "Pinocchio" is the tale of a wooden puppet who comes to life only to be tempted by good and evil. The moral dilemnas which tempt young Pinocchio seem relevant even by todays standards. The characters -- Jiminy Cricket, Geppetto, the evil Honest John and of course, Pinocchio -- are amongst Disneys most memorable. The title song "When You Wish Upon a Star" is one of the all-time classics. Although "Pinocchio" is geared toward a younger audience, some children may be frightened by Monstro the Whale and/or the the terrifying Pleasure Island Sequence. The only downside to "Pinocchio" is the DVD presentation itself. While the film transfer is great -- crisp, clear, vibrant colors -- my main gripe is the lack of extras. Apparently, Disney will be loading up the extras for its upcoming "Snow White" release. I just wish theyd do the same for not only "Pinocchio", but all of their animated classics. For the high price that Disney asks, youd think wed get a little more. However, this is just a minor gripe and overall, Im pleased to own this animated classic. Highly recommended to anyone and everyone!
On: 2001-08-21
A timeless classic which can be apreciated over and over again by people of all ages. "Pinocchio", Disneys second full-length animated feature, is one of the best ever. "Pinocchio" is the tale of a wooden puppet who comes to life only to be tempted by good and evil. The moral dilemnas which tempt young Pinocchio seem relevant even by todays standards. The characters -- Jiminy Cricket, Geppetto, the evil Honest John and of course, Pinocchio -- are amongst Disneys most memorable. The title song "When You Wish Upon a Star" is one of the all-time classics. Although "Pinocchio" is geared toward a younger audience, some children may be frightened by Monstro the Whale and/or the the terrifying Pleasure Island Sequence. The only downside to "Pinocchio" is the DVD presentation itself. While the film transfer is great -- crisp, clear, vibrant colors -- my main gripe is the lack of extras. Apparently, Disney will be loading up the extras for its upcoming "Snow White" release. I just wish theyd do the same for not only "Pinocchio", but all of their animated classics. For the high price that Disney asks, youd think wed get a little more. However, this is just a minor gripe and overall, Im pleased to own this animated classic. Highly recommended to anyone and everyone!
by: horrormoviegurl0 On: 2001-08-13
This movie was a better Disney film and old. Its about this wooden puppet that comes alive and wants to become a real boy. (its not scary and not supposed to be), and he keeps lying. His nose grows, and if he ever wants to be a real boy, he better stop lying, and to tell the truth (just like any other disney film) he becomes a real boy with villians etc, trying to stop him.
On: 2001-08-12
This movie was a better Disney film and old. Its about this wooden puppet that comes alive and wants to become a real boy. (its not scary and not supposed to be), and he keeps lying. His nose grows, and if he ever wants to be a real boy, he better stop lying, and to tell the truth (just like any other disney film) he becomes a real boy with villians etc, trying to stop him.
by: rupture On: 2001-08-04
The name Disney has always carried the stigma of wholesomeness, which all too often translates into fatuous and insipid "family entertainment," but the Pleasure Island segment of Pinocchio ranks among the supreme moments of horror in all of cinema - the loss of the self is so much more greusome than death. Worth having for that brilliant and ghastly scene alone.
by: coasterjj On: 2001-07-29
This mightve been the very first Disney Animated Classic I ever saw in my life, and definitly the best of the "old" Disney animated fatures (Lion King is probably the best of the "new" ones). Those first few lyrics during the opening credits just give me the chills every time."When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are..." Upon hearing that song, your mind goes PURE DISNEY. Its great. Its the same feeling you get when you ride Pirates of the Carribean ("THIS IS A CLASSIC!!"). I saw it many times as a kid, and then I didnt watch it for several years. The other day I decided to rent it, and watching it as a 19 year-old is alot different then watching it in the single-digit age years. Back then, I didnt pay as much attention to plot as I do now, and this movie has a great plot, even for adults, along with great visuals for the kids. If you havent seen this version, go rent it or even buy it! You wont be disappointed in this great Disney Classic.
by: castlebooknook On: 2001-07-22
Disney has restored this all-time classic to its original brilliance. The universal themes of love, family, friendship and good vs. evil make this educational and enjoyable. Yes, there are some quite scary scenes and evil is shown for what it is. However, just as in most fairy tales, good triumphs over evil in the end. The story is told by Jiminy Cricket and the start of the movie is peaceful. He arrives at Geppettos home where there are music boxes, toys, amazing clocks and a puppet who is just "all strings and joints." Geppetto is just painting on the finishing touches before he heads off to bed. The "cutest" black and white cat named Figaro adds warmth and amusement to the story. The sassy fish Cleo is a visual delight. As the woodcarver drifts off to sleep, he says: "Wouldnt it be nice if he was a real boy?" He then sends Figaro to open the window and sees a wishing star. He makes a wish and while he sleeps, the Blue Fairy brings the Marionette Pinocchio to life. He then must learn to have a conscience, so it is decided that Jiminy Cricket will be his guide so he will know what is good and what is evil. Pinocchio begins his journey to become a "real boy," but first he has to learn to be brave, loyal and honest. He is kidnapped after he joins a traveling show so he can become a famous actor, but escapes with the help of the Blue Fairy. She is the most beautiful animated fairy I have ever seen. Pinocchio then must learn to survive on his own. He takes a trip to Pleasure Island. This is a place where children go and they are allowed to play and never work, but the sinister truth is that they are all changed into donkeys and end up being shipped off to the salt mines. While he seems to keep making the wrong choices, once he realizes he will be turned into a donkey (his ears and tail already have grown), he goes back home. (Not unlike the prodigal son in a way, yet he is so young.) When he arrives home, he finds cobwebs and the house has been empty for some time. A note arrives that tells him where he can find his father, so he jumps into the ocean to find Monstro the whale, where his father, Geppetto is trapped. Once under the sea, things get a bit scary and the whale is quite evil, not unlike other creatures from the sea in Disneys movies. Will he find his father? I wont give the ending away. This is about the magical power of believing in your dreams and also will teach children to be moral and choose the good in life. I have to wonder if some politicians forgot to watch this movie as children. It teaches that lying is wrong and that a lie keeps growing and growing once it is told. There are messages that reading is good and education is something you should strive for. The illiterate Red Fox is hilarious as he tries to read the ABC book upside down! The fox tries to tell Pinocchio that education is not good for him. I also noticed that because Pinocchio could not read (because he didnt go to school!), he could not read the note about his father and therefore, Jiminy Cricket had to read it for him. See a similar scene in "Mulan" where the lucky cricket in that movie types out the letter like a typewritter, which is also a beautifully animated movie with snow scenes similar to the wave scenes in this classic. I could see many details in this animation which have carried over into other movies. There are many messages for adults in this movie....I doubt children will pick up on (Note the song that talks about "There are no strings on me!." This seems to be talking about our responsibility to others.) As an adult, you will find them amusing and thought provoking. I had to laugh when I heard the Cricket say: "What does an actor want with a conscience anyway." That hit the mark! I would like to see more actors develop a conscience. One of my favorite quotes by Jiminy Cricket is: "A cricket cant be too careful you know." It is laugh out loud funny when he says it. The first part of the movie is hilarious, the middle is a big adventure and the ending is a wonderful surprise for children. There are a few politically incorrect items, but they are almost tongue-in-cheek and you have to think about when this movie was made! If you have ever wished upon a star, or a falling star, this is for you! I agree, this is a masterpiece of animation....unlike anything you will find today. It is so detailed and moves at a pace where it is comfortable to watch. This is a thoughtful movie, unlike some of the more fast paced extravaganzas you see today.
by: castlebooknook On: 2001-07-21
Disney has restored this all-time classic to its original brilliance. The universal themes of love, family, friendship and good vs. evil make this educational and enjoyable. Yes, there are some quite scary scenes and evil is shown for what it is. However, just as in most fairy tales, good triumphs over evil in the end. The story is told by Jiminy Cricket and the start of the movie is peaceful. He arrives at Geppettos home where there are music boxes, toys, amazing clocks and a puppet who is just "all strings and joints." Geppetto is just painting on the finishing touches before he heads off to bed. The "cutest" black and white cat named Figaro adds warmth and amusement to the story. The sassy fish Cleo is a visual delight. As the woodcarver drifts off to sleep, he says: "Wouldnt it be nice if he was a real boy?" He then sends Figaro to open the window and sees a wishing star. He makes a wish and while he sleeps, the Blue Fairy brings the Marionette Pinocchio to life. He then must learn to have a conscience, so it is decided that Jiminy Cricket will be his guide so he will know what is good and what is evil. Pinocchio begins his journey to become a "real boy," but first he has to learn to be brave, loyal and honest. He is kidnapped after he joins a traveling show so he can become a famous actor, but escapes with the help of the Blue Fairy. She is the most beautiful animated fairy I have ever seen. Pinocchio then must learn to survive on his own. He takes a trip to Pleasure Island. This is a place where children go and they are allowed to play and never work, but the sinister truth is that they are all changed into donkeys and end up being shipped off to the salt mines. While he seems to keep making the wrong choices, once he realizes he will be turned into a donkey (his ears and tail already have grown), he goes back home. (Not unlike the prodigal son in a way, yet he is so young.) When he arrives home, he finds cobwebs and the house has been empty for some time. A note arrives that tells him where he can find his father, so he jumps into the ocean to find Monstro the whale, where his father, Geppetto is trapped. Once under the sea, things get a bit scary and the whale is quite evil, not unlike other creatures from the sea in Disneys movies. Will he find his father? I wont give the ending away. This is about the magical power of believing in your dreams and also will teach children to be moral and choose the good in life. I have to wonder if some politicians forgot to watch this movie as children. It teaches that lying is wrong and that a lie keeps growing and growing once it is told. There are messages that reading is good and education is something you should strive for. The illiterate Red Fox is hilarious as he tries to read the ABC book upside down! The fox tries to tell Pinocchio that education is not good for him. I also noticed that because Pinocchio could not read (because he didnt go to school!), he could not read the note about his father and therefore, Jiminy Cricket had to read it for him. See a similar scene in "Mulan" where the lucky cricket in that movie types out the letter like a typewritter, which is also a beautifully animated movie with snow scenes similar to the wave scenes in this classic. I could see many details in this animation which have carried over into other movies. There are many messages for adults in this movie....I doubt children will pick up on (Note the song that talks about "There are no strings on me!." This seems to be talking about our responsibility to others.) As an adult, you will find them amusing and thought provoking. I had to laugh when I heard the Cricket say: "What does an actor want with a conscience anyway." That hit the mark! I would like to see more actors develop a conscience. One of my favorite quotes by Jiminy Cricket is: "A cricket cant be too careful you know." It is laugh out loud funny when he says it. The first part of the movie is hilarious, the middle is a big adventure and the ending is a wonderful surprise for children. There are a few politically incorrect items, but they are almost tongue-in-cheek and you have to think about when this movie was made! If you have ever wished upon a star, or a falling star, this is for you! I agree, this is a masterpiece of animation....unlike anything you will find today. It is so detailed and moves at a pace where it is comfortable to watch. This is a thoughtful movie, unlike some of the more fast paced extravaganzas you see today.
by: erika_sorocco On: 2001-07-11
This is a great movie. The animation is excellent, and the movie teaches you a life lesson, which is that lying is a bad thing. At least thats what it taught me. This will always be a classic.
by: Anonymous On: 2001-07-09
BRilliant masterpiece !!! a movie filled with joy and love because it was created in a different time , when it was more important to entertain people , the music the acting (!) of the characters, everything is good in this timeless piece.
by: bspearslover15_2000 On: 2001-06-22
Disneys "Pinocchio" is the third installment of the "Walt Disney Gold Collection" as of March 7th, 2000. The "Walt Disney Gold Collection" is a group of films that inspire wonder and imagination for a life time, and "Pinocchio" fits that scription perfectly!Geppettpo is a lonely wood carver until one night when the blue fairy grants his wish of his puppet Pinocchio becomeing alive. But its up to Pinocchio to finish Geppettos wish of him becoming a real boy. If Pinocchio can prove himself brave, truithful, and unkind, he will be a real boy. Even though he has the help of Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio gets sidtracked. And when Geppetto is swallowed by a whale, its up to Pinocchio to save the day. The great thing about the "Walt Disney Gold Collection" is that they include special features weather they are on video or DVD. "Pinocchio" has the original 1940 theatrical trailer, French Language Track, full screen (1.33:1), and is THX Certified. So if you bought the video when it first came out, you may consider buying it again.
by: carstairs38 On: 2001-06-01
I really have a mixed reaction to this movie. There are parts I like, but overall, it just strikes me as an ok movie.The story is about a wooden puppet, Pinocchio, who is brought to life to fulfill the wish of Geppetto. But to become a real boy, he must learn to be brave and truthful on his own. Aided by Jiminy Cricket, he heads off into a world filled with temptation. For me, this movie seems slow. While Geppettos shop is richly detailed, too much time is spent playing around with the clocks and music boxes. I do get into the movie in the middle and find it easy to care about the characters. The scene where Lampwick turns into a donkey still creeps me out. It is interesting to note how the animation had progressed in the 3 years since Snow White. All the humans were more realistic, even the background people. Those interested in the DVD will be disappointed to learn that the only real bonus feature is the original trailer. Fortunately, Disney has started including more on their DVDs, giving hope that one day this will be re-released with some interesting behind the scenes information. I realize many people consider this Walt Disneys ultimate masterpiece. For me, however, this is a good movie but doesnt live up to some of his others.
by: gurpsgm On: 2001-03-26
Walt Disney said that he considered "Snow White" to be his masterpiece. I hate to disagree with the master, but I think "Pinocchio" should have that honor. The story of a puppet trying to become a boy has a meaning that will be obvious to adults - try to be good and you will succeed despite incredible odds - but it is not "preachy" and kids love it! Carlos Collodis story of the puppet that becomes a boy has =never= been translated to film better. Everyone knows the story - a lonely puppeteer named Gepetto make a wish to have a son. The Blue Fairy hears his wish, and decides to grant it in an unusual fashion - she brings his most recent creation to life, and gives the -puppet- a chance to prove himself in order to become a boy. Pinocchio has many misadventures while learning lifes lessons, but finally appears to give his "life" when saving his father from the monster whale, Monstro. The Blue Fairy returns and says that the ultimate sacrifice has earned him the ultimate prize - he becomes a real live boy! Honored by the Academy Awards for Best Song ("Wish Upon A Star") and Best Score, this movie deserves every award in the book. There has never been more object lessons taught so easily. Dont lie. Be brave. Stay on the path to your goal. And not preachy, either. Jiminy Cricket has one of the most popular Disney songs ever - "When You Wish Upon a Star". Pinocchios troubles are still valid today. Pinocchio is tempted by fame and to "run away from your problems". Pinocchio is tempted by evil - becoming a donkey because he acts like one is still one of the most impression making scenes in Disneys history. Finally, his intelligence in triumphing over Monstro gives him the experience to prove himself worthy. Every family should own this Disney masterpiece. The THX restoration of the video and sound makes this a real viewing experience - just as clear and clean as it might have been in the theaters in 1940. The only disappointment I had is with the "extra" material on the DVD. Almost no extra material at all. It just includes the original theatrical trailer, and a French language track. Come on, Disney, give us more about Pinocchio! After seeing what was possible with the recent release of the "Platinum" edition of "Snow White", I can only hope that they will eventually turn their energies towards this film as well. Highly recommended for families, especially families with young children. The "Gold Edition" of this DVD is now officially on moratorium - maybe after that well see the version we want!
by: schweinway On: 2001-02-18
The following is an excerpt from an essay I did about Walt Disney. The excerpt is property of Amazon, but the ESSAY is my property. Email me if you want it.Last night I watched Pinocchio, Disneys second feature-length film and in my opinion one of the studios best features. Based on the 19th century book by Carlo Collodi, but not half as unpleasant, Pinocchio combines winning animation with great humor and excitement. There are songs, but theyre never like the huge production numbers that last four minutes and feature the voice of some up-and-coming princess of pop (wholl be gone in a year) that the studio later adopted with the applicable exception of When you Wish Upon a Star. The movie takes a sadastic, cruel, heartless little wooden boy (Collodis character) and turns him into an interesting, 3-dimensional kid with a good heart but who is weak-willed and doesnt always listen to reason. The animation makes brilliant use of the multiplane camera, featuring a sprawling opening sequence in which the viewer practically sees the entire village at night. The characters are colorful and fun (I especially love Honest John Foulfellow and his sidekick Gideon) and the story has never a dull moment. This film is a reminder of the sort of efforts Disney put into their films; the man himself had a great storytelling passion that was lost in later works (Alice in Wonderland, 101 Dalmations). Pinocchio was never as famous as some of the others, and this is unfortunate because it is his masterpiece.
by: mskrisclark On: 2001-02-18
After over 60 years, this film stands out. An excellant movie. True Disney classic. Love the music. No extras on the disc, which is disappointing. Great picture quality, though
by: yensid98 On: 2001-02-11
This film is simply magnificent! The definitive animated film. DVD (and laserdisc before it) is the only way to truly see all the detail put into this film (check out the wavery effect above the fire in Geppettos fireplace). The story has a perfect blend of charm/cuteness and action/scariness wich takes you through some very dark places to arrive at the happy ending. The result is not only an ending that feels well deserved, but one that trancends time to become like a classic tale of old. It might scare the younger ones, but theyll love it anyway. Just like they love tales of the Brothers Grimm.The only problem is that the transfer for this DVD isnt that great. Although the image quality is better than VHS, I own a laserdisc version of Pinocchio that displays a picture with much less grain that this DVD. Still, I wouldnt pass up on owning this treasure because who knows how long it will be before Disney releases the definitive version on DVD. And besides, why deprive yourself of all the fun and excitement of Pinocchio? Buy it.
by: ivory88 On: 2001-01-21
Pinocchio is a Disney classic in that is from the Golden Era of the studio and beautifully animated. The backgrounds are extraordinary, the detail astonishing. The clocks in Gepettos workshop were drawn from models the studio actually made to aid the animators. The opening shot demonstrates the first use of the multi-plane camera; layering background and shooting from several different levels. The underwater scenes and especially Monstro the Whale are spectacular. Having said all that I do not like Pinocchio. The Collodi story, considerably domesticated here, is too dark. It is disturbing, unrelentingly so, and it is one of the few Disney animated features I do not own for that reason.
by: midnightblue_80 On: 2000-12-09
Ever since I was a kid, "Pinocchio" has always been one of my favorites. Its the story of a puppet, Pinocchio, who is on a mission to become a real boy. But to do that, he has to stay out of trouble the best he can. The only way he can do it is by the guidance of his conscience, Jiminy Cricket. But staying out of trouble is harder than Pinocchio first thought. .... Will Pinocchio ever become a real boy?"Pinocchio" has always been one of my favorite animated movies and it always will be. Its a timeless classic to say the least. If you like animated movies and especially if you have any kids, I recommend getting "Pinocchio" while you can.
by: infantonboard On: 2000-11-23
i loved this movie because it was so charming. it helps children who are becoming moody pre-teens get through that stage of learning. it never gets too complex, but it hints at how different the world is from Sunday School while being age appropriate. it doesnt become condescending. a lot can be accomplished if the family sits down afterwards and discusses its themes. the other reviews are far superior to mine, but i felt moved to offer my spin. Classic Disney movies are never a waste of money because they teach, entertain or remind adults of the problems in being a human being, no matter how old you are.
by: Anonymous On: 2000-10-28
Our century can be proud of roughly a dozen artistic geniuses. Walt Disney was one of them. This movie will testify that statement. His 3 or 4 first full-lenghth films were already the climax, which was never again paralleled. This to me, is one of the best 10 celluloid works of all times. Its simply perfect and Disney didnt get the financial support afterwards that enabled him to create this breathtaking masterwork. Nowadays, theres so much emphasis on the highly praised "effects orgies", but they are mere trilbies, compared to this "chapeau magique".
by: justinritter On: 2000-10-25
Pinocchio is the perfect animated feature. The story is magnificent, the characters are solid and well developed, the sound and music are amazing, and the animation is nothing short of breathtaking. Its a bit disappointing to not have a better dvd treatment with lots of extras, but even no extras is not enough to bring it down. If you dont already own it, buy it now.
by: bpwest711 On: 2000-09-14
A musical, magical, gorgeously animated movie, Pinocchio is one of the first classic Disney films that began to "brand" the Disney image of enchanting, vigorous family entertainment. The characters, from kindly Geppetto, to the intoxicating Jiminey Cricket, and Cleo, Figaro and all of the "baddies", are endlessly engaging. Flawlessly executed, with a well-constructed, and purposely manipulative screenplay, this movie is one of those rare pieces of commercial art: moving and entertaining at the same time, and genuinely, surprisingly alive and contemporary. If you remember this movie from your childhood, you know how compelling and horrific some of these darkly imagined scenes can be for a child -- and if you have children now who have never seen it, give them a treat they will never forget, along with some lessons that are truer today than ever. A walk down Main Street/Fantasyland in the Disney Parks owes much to the cozy cottages and imagined warmth in light, shadow and music that was first realized for this perfect movie. A delight.
by: smiley155 On: 2000-09-02
Everybody loves Pinocchio. The characters, the animation, the EVERYTHING about it is timeless in the joy they bring to people of all ages. Youll wish long with the lonely Geppetto, and see the joys and tragedies of the real world for the first time with Pinnochio. You will even find yourself longing for fish along with Figaro, the cat. Yes, the story is that vivid. The songs, "When you Wish upon a Star" and "Give a Little Whistle", to name two, will give you a feeling you just cant get from the pop hits of today. This movie is one of the ones that helped coin the phrase "Disney Magic". And it is, magical, and magic is impossible to manufacture or formulate, no matter how hard some people attempt at it. Pinocchio will always rank as one of the greatest Disney films of all time. It is a must for any household, whether you have a "Disney collection" or not.
by: pietienumberone On: 2000-08-11
First of all, before any of you fine Amazon.com readers get the wrong idea about my mediocre 3 star rating, Pinocchio is and probably will always be the greatest animated film of all time. Calling Pinocchio a masterpiece is an understatement. I am writing this review on the basis of how fed up I am with the stupidity and greed that Disney has shown of late. Like so many of the 40+ reviewers have said, why was this classic thrown together with such little respect? The transfer to DVD does not improve upon the VHS version, in fact it actually looks downright fuzzy at times. And boy was I ticked off when the "making of Pinocchio" was not included on the DVD, but WAS on the VHS! What am I spending the extra dollars for? Like another reviewer said, Disney just wants the consumer to buy the next version with the extras included. Theyre no fools, they probably figure if they include the extras on the DVD now, no one will buy it again because DVDs dont wear out! It all comes down to the almighty dollar, right Disney? When Disney does include extras, like on A Bugs Life, they make you buy 2 DVDs! Has anyone at Disney noticed how many hours can be stored on a single DVD? Take Dreamworks for example, they produced a great film in the Prince of Egypt and loaded the DVD with a ton of extras. You dont mind paying a little extra for DVDs like the Prince of Egypt or The Iron Giant (another superb film). Wise up Disney, you wont be able to live on reputation for much longer if you continue trying to rip off the public. The competition is stiff, and darn good! I bet Walt must be turning over in his grave. I would love the folks at Disney to read this review.
by: Anonymous On: 2000-08-10
"Pinocchio" was Walt Disneys second animated feature, and it is his greatest triumph. It has memorable characters, timeless animation, and great songs, including the Oscar-winning "When You Wish Upon A Star." Cliff Edwards {the voice of Jiminy Cricket} sings that song in the opening credits with such brilliance that it makes you feel alive. Dickie Jones was a magnificent fit for the voice of Pinocchio. He was 12 years old when he did the voice, but, to me, he sounded younger than that. Walt Disney should be proud of himself for making this timeless masterpiece, and he made lots of them, including "Dumbo" and "Bambi." They dont make these kinds of movies anymore, which is both a tragedy and a travesty.
by: aadlaf On: 2000-07-24
Disney movies were the joy of my childhood. (I so envy the kids today who can see them at home any time they want to; for me, you had to go to the theatre, and 20 cents for a ticket meant I could only go once a week.) PINOCCHIO was the scariest, because the set-up for Pleasure Island was so exciting, only to see Pinocchios friends grow long ears and become mean! These days, I think, a lot of the scare-factor is gone because kids see so many movies that have frightening elements in them. But once upon a time, back in the 40s, Walt Disney had to take a chance on frightening the kids because he needed adults to buy the tickets. So in an interesting sense, PINOCCHIO is more of an adult movie than Disneys other full-length features of the time. It certainly deserves a full five stars, but it doesnt topple the best movie of all time (SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS), nor is it as integrated and coherent as CINDERELLA or DUMBO. PINOCCHIO is more episodic, more a collection of scenes with music. If you have an impressionable child, Id hold off on PINOCCHIO for a while.
by: justareviewer On: 2000-07-11
A milestone in animated films, but its also a timeless movie that appeals to kids as well as adults. Its remarkable how all Disney films have been such a big part of so many kids childhood, and Pinocchio is usually among the ones that leave a profound impact, name another film that could make you more afraid of lying. The animation is still astonishing, the degree of detail is breathtaking, even more impressive by the fact that it was all done by hand and this was one of the earliest animated films. The story has a timelessness to it and an effortless charm thats hard to beat, the movie basically puts you under Disneys spell for 80 rewarding minutes. Out of all the Disney films, Pinocchio and Snow White are the only ones that can be considered classics, not just because they have aged so well or because they have played such a big role in all our childhood, but because theres a certain air of experimentalism to them, animated films were just a new thing and they could take you places you couldnt even imagine. This particularly was a labor or love by everyone involved, you can sense that it was made with dedication and care. Filled with many memorable and enchanting moments, who can forget When You Wish Upon A Star? or even the characters; Gepetto, Cleo, Figaro, Monstro the Whale and especially Jiminy Cricket have been deeply rooted into the American culture. An enchanting film that never gets old. From a scale of 1-10 I give this film a 10!
by: lazy0718 On: 2000-06-08
First the movie: Wonderful musical that is something Ill always love. The story isnt very deep (do good things, and good things happen to you), but it comes off as fresh even 60 years after it was made. This is one of the better Disney movies, putting many of their movies from the 1990s to shame (such as Pocohantas and Hercules).The DVD: Image quality is the best Ive seen it. At first viewing, it seems too washed out, but this is a movie from 1940, that is the way it originally looked. And yes, it is supposed to fill the screen. Just like the Wizard of Oz, it was not a widescreen movie. Audio wise, the soundtrack has been remixed to 4 channel audio. It sounds okay, but wont blow you away. Supplements on the DVD are very lacking. Specifically you get a trailer for the movie. The VHS edition got a documentary about the making of this film, but that wasnt included on the DVD. That is disappointing. Hopefully more extras could be discovered and a new edition released sometime in the next few years. Bottom Line: One of the best movies available on DVD, not one of the best DVDs available.
On: 2000-06-07
First the movie: Wonderful musical that is something Ill always love. The story isnt very deep (do good things, and good things happen to you), but it comes off as fresh even 60 years after it was made. This is one of the better Disney movies, putting many of their movies from the 1990s to shame (such as Pocohantas and Hercules).The DVD: Image quality is the best Ive seen it. At first viewing, it seems too washed out, but this is a movie from 1940, that is the way it originally looked. And yes, it is supposed to fill the screen. Just like the Wizard of Oz, it was not a widescreen movie. Audio wise, the soundtrack has been remixed to 4 channel audio. It sounds okay, but wont blow you away. Supplements on the DVD are very lacking. Specifically you get a trailer for the movie. The VHS edition got a documentary about the making of this film, but that wasnt included on the DVD. That is disappointing. Hopefully more extras could be discovered and a new edition released sometime in the next few years. Bottom Line: One of the best movies available on DVD, not one of the best DVDs available.
by: mskrisclark On: 2000-04-22
This is great! One of my favorites. Excellant music & Jiminy is one of my favorites characters!
by: doc_who On: 2000-04-17
I would review the movie just the DVD! First of all there are no making of, storyboard,production notes or any extra features ! The only extra feature you get with this DVD is the trailer! Oh, did I mention that the DVD has beautiful picture on it! Rent it first ,then buy at Disney outragous price that they want for this DVD! Just watch later on Disney will reissue it (and the others in their collection with all the extras this DVD lack! If you want those extra features stick with the studios Disney owns! They are Miramax,Dimension,Hollywood Pictures,Touchstones Pictures,ABC network,Anchor Bay and Walt Disney Pictures! I hope this info helps others looking for disney movies other than the animated movies!
by: dipsosis On: 2000-04-02
Ill leave the technical debates to the other reviewers, and just say that Im perfectly happy with the DVD version I purchased.Id rather discuss the film itself. The title of this review speaks for itself. Sure, the technology available to the artists then doesnt stack up to the technical quality in modern films, such as Tarzan or Mulan, but the charming storytelling techniques more than allow you to forget this shortcoming.Frankly, IMHO, this is the richest and most stirring Disney tale ever. Pinocchio is a superb story of growth and morality. The protagonist is plagued by the most human of foibles: the inability to listen to ones conscience. The villains, from Stromboli to the purveyor of Pleasure Island, are individuals transplanted from our own world: the street hustler and the conscienceless CEO. Of course, fantasy is a key element; if you allow yourself to see through Pinocchios eyes, Monstro is as primal and frightening a threat as the Queen from Aliens.And this is from the jaded voice of a reviewer well on his way to his 30s; the songs, humor, and simple morality story of Pinocchio is one that children of all ages will always love...
by: dg100566 On: 2000-03-21
Am I the only one that cannot find a DVD copy without a defect on the left side of the screen during certain points in the film? You cant tell on traditional DVD components (which crop off a good 2 inches of the viewable image), but if you watch it on your computer (the entire screen image), you will see a blurred left side at various scenes, (note: the first Honest John & Pinoccio encounter). Where can I find a good copy? I also agree with the public... wheres the making-of extra, if its on video? Thats outrageous! The film itself gets 5 stars, the DVD release only 2 stars.
by: loraleec On: 2000-02-20
Im so glad that they are doing the Disney movies on DVD now. The quality of the picture and sound are excellent. Weve added this to our DVD collection along with all of the other Disney DVDs. I have almost all of the Disney movies on video... and hope to continue to add to our DVD collection
by: rastaroofus On: 2000-02-09
Wow. Its great to be able to own a Disney movie, a masterpiece at that, on DVD. It comes with the works, astounding picture quality, dolby digital, and THX. The movie is in its original theatrical aspect (1.33:1 according to the packaging) which is in fact, regular TV aspect ratio.The DVD comes with the original 1940 trailer which is fun to watch. This is a plus since most Disney DVDs come with little or no extras. I hope Disney will start putting a little more effort and put in cast & production information with their DVDs.
by: Anonymous On: 2000-01-15
Im personally only buying the Disney DVDs of the movies I love.I have all of them on VHS but want the best ones on DVD.This one is certainly at the top of the list.The picture is better than ever and the sound is THX.Once again the movie should come first features second.It could have a making of..but would you really watch that more than once.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-12-27
The quality of this DVD is more than outstanding. I already had this movie on Video and was astounded by the clarity of the movie. I actually put in the video and compared the two. The difference is amazing. The fact that this movie is not in Widescreen is great. Its hard to find movies that arent in Widescreen, and its wonderful to have a movie that actually fills the whole screen. Why people want a movie that only fills half the screen is something that will always amaze me. The sound on this DVD is in 5.1, which was a big surprise. I recommend this outstanding DVD to all enthusiasts. The extra features may not be much, but really it is the movie that we are interested in, isnt it?
by: drewster_i On: 1999-12-08
I am giving this DVD a 4 for just coming out. Disney DVD is the reason I am going DVD. (It was either that or Star Wars!)Anyway, for those of you complaining about the lack of "Widescreen" on this and other Disney DVDs, read the packaging. "Pinocchio is presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio, approximately 1:33:1." Peter Pan and 101 Dalmations also say this. It is not a "full screen/pan and scan!" What they saw in the movies then just happens to almost fill your TV screen now. Just enjoy!
On: 1999-12-07
I am giving this DVD a 4 for just coming out. Disney DVD is the reason I am going DVD. (It was either that or Star Wars!)Anyway, for those of you complaining about the lack of "Widescreen" on this and other Disney DVDs, read the packaging. "Pinocchio is presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio, approximately 1:33:1." Peter Pan and 101 Dalmations also say this. It is not a "full screen/pan and scan!" What they saw in the movies then just happens to almost fill your TV screen now. Just enjoy!
by: cybelea On: 1999-12-04
I love Pinocchio but it is not worth paying the extra cost for this DVD just because it is Disney. There are NO extra features except trailers. How disapointing that Disney feels they can charge 10 or more dollars extra just for the priviledge of owning this on DVD. It feels like they are punnishing us for not buying the video which has more extra features on it then the DVD! How sad. I would not buy either and complain to Disney about their sneaky tactics! I am a huge Disney fan and can say this!
On: 1999-12-03
I love Pinocchio but it is not worth paying the extra cost for this DVD just because it is Disney. There are NO extra features except trailers. How disapointing that Disney feels they can charge 10 or more dollars extra just for the priviledge of owning this on DVD. It feels like they are punnishing us for not buying the video which has more extra features on it then the DVD! How sad. I would not buy either and complain to Disney about their sneaky tactics! I am a huge Disney fan and can say this!
by: Anonymous On: 1999-12-01
Forget about The Lion King, Tarzan, Mulan, and all of the above, this is the finest piece of animated movie ever created on earth. Simply, superior, moving, heart-breaking, and emotionally sensational. The best movie ever by Disney, untouchable, and excellent in every way. If you are a critical viewer, Pinocchio is for you.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-11-15
First off, let me say that Pinocchio is my favorite of all the Disney animated films. Which makes it all the more frustrating that it was treated so shabbily in this DVD release. While the video and audio quality are decent, they are not nearly as good as they should have been, given the state of the technology. And, frankly, the "supplements" are a joke. A picture on the disc is a feature? Get with it, Disney.
On: 1999-11-14
First off, let me say that Pinocchio is my favorite of all the Disney animated films. Which makes it all the more frustrating that it was treated so shabbily in this DVD release. While the video and audio quality are decent, they are not nearly as good as they should have been, given the state of the technology. And, frankly, the "supplements" are a joke. A picture on the disc is a feature? Get with it, Disney.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-11-06
Okay people...the first widescreen disney animated movie was Lady and the Tramp in 1955. So dont complain about how its not widescreen because a widescreen version does nto exist. This movie was made in 1940. Anywayz, it is a shame that they didnt include more extra features but the colors are superb and the movie is the most enjoyable it has ever been.
On: 1999-11-05
Okay people...the first widescreen disney animated movie was Lady and the Tramp in 1955. So dont complain about how its not widescreen because a widescreen version does nto exist. This movie was made in 1940. Anywayz, it is a shame that they didnt include more extra features but the colors are superb and the movie is the most enjoyable it has ever been.
by: bebopguy On: 1999-11-04
I think that this is one of the best from the Disney golden years. However I had 3 DVD discs shipped to me and all 3 were defective. The picture would freeze and the sound would stop. I checked my machine with other discs and it was fine. I think there is a bad batch of DVD discs. Has anyone else had the problem? Please let me know.
by: schoeneckerb On: 1999-11-03
This movie is terrific. I hadnt seen it for many years...since i was a child. I dont regret buying it at all. It has a magical quality about it that hasnt been captured by disney in years. The lack of extras is a little disappointing. However, that does not detract from the splendor of the movie. I think that its great that children can see something totally moralizing. This is perhaps Walt Disneys finest!!
On: 1999-11-02
This movie is terrific. I hadnt seen it for many years...since i was a child. I dont regret buying it at all. It has a magical quality about it that hasnt been captured by disney in years. The lack of extras is a little disappointing. However, that does not detract from the splendor of the movie. I think that its great that children can see something totally moralizing. This is perhaps Walt Disneys finest!!
by: woemcats-cd-dvd-store On: 1999-11-01
This is the best this movie is ever going to look. AND STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT THE LACK OF WIDESCREEN! Most movies made before 1960 were shot in full-screen! It would be totally useless to transfer Pinocchio to widescreen because it wasnt filmed that way!
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-30
Pinocchio is, in my opinion, the very best of the Disney animated films and has been a positive influence on many generations of movie goers. The review of "Gatsby" below is really scary, if it is not a joke. If he/she is this freaked out by Pinocchio they must really have a tough time with 99% of films made since the silver screen was first lit.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-30
Pinocchio, yes.. one of Disneys better films before the organization went bad. The video is not bad, but I do not agree with the organization.
by: iamduenorth On: 1999-10-29
It looks more like a VHS transfer than an actual serious release. Wheres widescreen? If you want to collect it since it will disappear, then go for it. Some day in the future Disney will re-release it again with all the goodies. Until then, this is Disneys chance to make back the money lost with Divx.
by: bobt1 On: 1999-10-29
This is really the pits. Disney could easily put a few little "extras" on these DVD releases, like "the making of...", interviews, etc. But all we get is the bare movie. This sucks. How much more could it cost to add these extras? Virtually every other DVD released nowadays has added features. Shame on you, Disney.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-29
A classic story retold through the vision of Walt Disney and his studio.Made at a time during this century when war had again broken in Europe and children there were shipped out of there homes by the thousands to safety of places all over the world.Truly a time of great morality and this film reflects those morals;The more you lie the deeper you get into trouble-as deep as the inside of a whale at the bottom of the ocean!One of the Disney Studios most lavish and entertaining productions.
by: iamduenorth On: 1999-10-28
It looks more like a VHS transfer than an actual serious release. Wheres widescreen? If you want to collect it since it will disappear, then go for it. Some day in the future Disney will re-release it again with all the goodies. Until then, this is Disneys chance to make back the money lost with Divx.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-28
I was so dissapointed to see that this title only comes in english and french. There is already a track in spanish. Why not add it to this DVD????
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-28
As a child I grew up loving Pinocchio. I loved the story and the movie. But as an adult I have had time to reevaluate this story and its effect on our children. This movie contains too much violence and way too much fantasy for our children to handle. With all of its fluff and happy themes, how can you show this to our children when there is so much suffering in the world? I think its grossly unfair to the children of other countries who are dying of starvation or war for our own children to enjoy something so blatently moralizing. I believe that there are some religious undertones in the story as well that should have been kept in check. Please, for our childrens sake and future, avoid this harmful film.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-28
I do own two copies of Pinocchio before this DVD, one beta tape (remeber beta?) and one laserdisc. This current release appears to be the same digitally-cleaned-up version that was released as the last laserdisc version (there were two - one older nastier picture and a new cleaned-up one). I dont think I need to say much about the story. I guess folks of today should think of what the world was like then. And you can always decide what you want your children to see so its all up to you. Its a case of old world, old value and new world, new fashion.The case stated that this was a theatrical aspect ratio which is probably right. The last laserdisc release was the same and I havent seen a widescreen release of this one. A nice touch is the French credits when you select French soundtrack. Just be careful about the copy you get. The store I got it from had six defective discs out of ten they received. My first copy refused to play but I managed to push menu button on the remote and got in anyhow. And lo and behold, the film on there was The Prince of Egypt!!!! Hmmmm interesting.
by: slugdubjb On: 1999-10-28
Was this movie originally full screen or is there a widescreen version of this film? I feel like Im not seeing the entire animation....?
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-28
I love Pinocchio. I was so excited to hear it was being released on DVD. Heck, I was happy just to hear any classic Disney animation was going to be finally released on DVD. However, what disappoints me is that this DVD seems to be thrown together without any extra effort put in it to make it special. The DVD version is not in widescreen (like the laserdisk versions are) and it is missing "the making of" that is found on the VHS version. Why are these things missing and why are we paying more for the DVD version without any of the extras practically found on all other DVDs?
On: 1999-10-27
As a child I grew up loving Pinocchio. I loved the story and the movie. But as an adult I have had time to reevaluate this story and its effect on our children. This movie contains too much violence and way too much fantasy for our children to handle. With all of its fluff and happy themes, how can you show this to our children when there is so much suffering in the world? I think its grossly unfair to the children of other countries who are dying of starvation or war for our own children to enjoy something so blatently moralizing. I believe that there are some religious undertones in the story as well that should have been kept in check. Please, for our childrens sake and future, avoid this harmful film.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-27
What a film! Fabulous animation, good music, an insightful plot that will entertain, as well as educate the children that watch it, make this the best animated feature of all time. Perhaps a little intense for small children, but little else negative can be said about it. Before you send the kids off to watch the brainless garbage Disney loves to turn out today, give them this classic that shows the immortal Walt Disney in his prime. Youll love it so much, you might just start babbling on and on about it like me.............
On: 1999-10-27
I love Pinocchio. I was so excited to hear it was being released on DVD. Heck, I was happy just to hear any classic Disney animation was going to be finally released on DVD. However, what disappoints me is that this DVD seems to be thrown together without any extra effort put in it to make it special. The DVD version is not in widescreen (like the laserdisk versions are) and it is missing "the making of" that is found on the VHS version. Why are these things missing and why are we paying more for the DVD version without any of the extras practically found on all other DVDs?
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-24
How can you go wrong with this childhood classic by Disney! This was truly one of thee best animated movies ever produced. It is truly top notch compared to the animated features we have today. I think everyone young and old should own a copy!
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-23
Out of all the movies we have at our disposal today, not one can match the exhilarance and emotions that come from this movie of Walt Disney. Other Walt Disney films have the same characteristics, in their own form, of course. I will definitely make sure it is in the "video library" of each of my grandchildren.
by: paulo20 On: 1999-10-12
I dont care what the average moviegoer or the AFI says, Disneys best movie isnt The Lion King or Snow White, its this timeless gem. Its great that its coming out on DVD, which Im getting even though I dont have a DVD player (yet).
by: paulo20 On: 1999-10-12
I dont care what the average moviegoer or the AFI says, Disneys best movie isnt The Lion King or Snow White, its this timeless gem. Its great that its coming out on DVD, which Im getting even though I dont have a DVD player (yet).
by: Anonymous On: 1999-10-06
I have been wating for this movie to be released again. I love it!! I cant wait for my kids to see it with me.
by: Anonymous On: 1999-09-30
Pinocchio is my favorite Disney movie of all time!!!!!!! Im glad they decided to come out with a 60th anniversary release. It is up there with such movies as Lady and the Tramp and Bambi. It is a classic a must have!!!!!!!!
by: Anonymous On: 1999-09-23
simply if you really want to be touched at the heart watch this movi
by: gergs@mail.com On: 1999-09-22
Pinocchio is a movie with good morals and great animation. The songs are delightful and its a must for any Disney fan!
by: Anonymous On: 1999-09-14
Pinocchio, a timeless masterpiece, of daily standards that instill the young mind, that honesty, truthfulness, and bravery, along with love, brings happiness.
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