My aunt requested that we view this film today. After the dissatisfaction I had with One Hundred and One Dalmatians not too long ago, I was concerned that Disney wouldn't actually have an abundance of stand-out titles during its supposed Golden Age. So why is this my favorite of that era?The animation doesn't just capture a small town in New England pristinely from a dog's perspective: it incorporates textures such as mud that look surprisingly more real than even some modern CGI depictions of mud. That, coupled with the spot on character designs and environments, makes this what I consider landmark for Disney in the 1950s. I was genuinely pleased at how Lady isn't actually pompous despite having been realistically spoiled for most of her youth, as well as going through what I imagine a lot of strays (like my own dog Albert once was) endure prior to their arrival at the infamous pounds. I wasn't too drawn in by Tramp's more rebellious nature, but it soon dawned that considering what lied across this movie, he indeed knew what was best, and that is a sign of noble story writing. I also felt a bit of sympathy for Aunt Sarah for not knowing Si and Am's malicious nature and for not initially understanding the circumstances as to why Jim Jr.'s crib collapsed. I really liked Bella Notte, and I felt a bit emotional during the pound singing; it reminded me of why the pound just isn't a place for dogs to be. The story has masterful humor and more effective appeal to dog lovers (at least, I find) than the films before it and most certainly after. It's real refreshing considering modern Disney believes that the main appeal to dog lovers comes from making MORE. BUDDIES. MOVIES. But alas, I found the story top tier overall.If you like animation, Disney, dogs, or 50s films, you will find something pleasing about viewing this film. For anyone else, please do go see it. I cannot imagine another Disney movie so far being as appealing to those who like dogs as this, so do view it at some point.
... View MoreMany Disney features are adaptations of previously existing stories. Lady and the Tramp was the first Disney feature to be based on an original story. Like Peter Pan and Alice In Wonderland, this was one of the projects shelved and then resumed due to WWII. Like many of the best Disney and MGM shorts featuring house pets made years prior, this is told and animated from the dog's perspective. The audience only sees a few glimpses of the human characters, and we're unsure of their actual names. The main heroine Lady and the hero Tramp are an unlikely match as they come from opposite backgrounds, but circumstances bring them together for a romantic adventure. I like how the dog's characters (and in some cases dialects) are defined by their breeds (i.e. Jock the Scottish terrier having a Scottish accent and feisty personality). Surprisingly, this film has still maintained its status as a beloved classic despite ethnic stereotypes of Asians, Italians, Irish, etc. These kind of elements, Disney and other media have otherwise tried to censor. I wonder how the features in the Disney animated canon with controversial sequences have largely remained available and well publicized. I like how the setting is at the turn of the last century, likely within the collective memory at the time of release. The film doesn't specifically state when, but I would say early 1910's, as there mostly horse carriages, but a few cars. As far as post-war features, this is generally considered to be one of the best. The spaghetti scene is one of the most iconic scenes in cinema. There are three nicely executed climatic scenes, two of them back to back at the end of the film. I still have fond recollections of when I first saw it some 25 years ago as a small child.
... View MoreOne of Disney's finest animated films.Great storytelling combined with catchy songs and flawless animation makes Disney's first CinemaScope feature a masterpiece! Recommended for both children and adults alike but especially dog lovers! The classic spaghetti eating scene along with the Siamese cat scene are two highlights and my personal favorites! An absolute must for any Disney collection or ANY film collection for that matter!!! Ten out of ten stars for sure! Oh and special mention to voice actors Peggy Lee and Disney veterans Barbara Luddy and Verna Fulton who give a fabulous performance as well as the entire voice-over cast!!
... View MoreI was four when Lady first met her Tramp. That was a lie t of years ago. Yet, to this day, I can't think of this film without both smiles and tears, and it doesn't matter that I've seen it it dozens.of times, both in theaters and my home. Because of the master storytellers at Disney's magic palace, I craved a cocker spaniel. After AfterbAfter all, what else does a little girl need?Lady and the tramp, like all of Walt Disney's films, has laughter, drama, pathos, tears, and, perhaps most importantly, a happy ending. If you have a child, it should be approached carefully because it can be a traumatic experience. I still remember what a trial it was for me to see this film the first time, and how many tissues I went through. But I cannot recommend this movie enough, because it can help a child more fully appreciate how wonderful dogs are, and how gentle care of one can help a person learn regard for all life.If you are a parent, invest in Disney films. If you are not a member of that class, invest in them for your own benefit. They are still, many, many years after my first introduction to each of them, a genuine treasure of my life. Thank you, Uncle Walt, for filling my childhood with gentle education.
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