I didn't really care for this as a kid but I adore it now-I have seen it about 4 times since New Year's Eve. It was controversial among release for how it viewed religion(some hated that a church was the main setting, some hated that the villain was doing evil for God). The villain song also has a theme of lust and how the lusted woman must marry him or go to hell. It's dark and not for squeamish kids. In fact, I think older audiences will enjoy it more than kids will. Some also hate the gargoyles but I like them fine-one was voiced by Jason Alexander! Demi Moore, Kevin Kline, Tony Jay, Tom Hulce, and others are in the cast too. This is my favorite Disney movie and worth seeing. it's a shame that IMDB rates this at 6.9! Maybe 7.9, but 6.9? oh, well. Not everyone can see beauty in a movie about an "ugly" man!

This is one of my favorite films. I have not read the book but that doesn't matter, a Disney adaptation, almost by definition, is not going to do the original story or book justice. That's just how it is. It kind of annoys me when people compare the book to the movie because they are supposed to be a little different. Anyway, that is a topic for another day. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a perfect combination of dark and humorous, I know the gargoyles are annoying but that is forgivable because of the amazing storyline, superb epic soundtrack (and epic is the perfect word to describe it), and lovable characters. Something also has to be said for the incredible animation, the movie is huge with a lot of amazing detail and superb shots. I loved the animation of Notre Dame and all the effort into making the city look spectacular. Hand-drawn animation will always amaze me. This is not a children's movie. I know it was probably made for kids but it covers (very well, I might add) some surprisingly dark topics. It teaches a lesson, however, that everybody should learn.

This is such a classic Disney and one of my favorites and I hate that it is not talked about more! The music and the message of this story is so important and kids should see this film. Maybe 7 or 8 though. Younger than that and it might be a little too scary at times. Anyways, the songs and the characters are so sweet, kind, and charming and smart! Esmeralda is a force to be reckoned with and she is such a strong and powerful female character in an animated film. Omgg!! I wish more people watch this film and I hope Disney recognizes how much of a classic this film is. I love this movie and will always love this movie and I am glad that I watched this when I was younger. Loove it so much!!

***CONTAINS SPOILERS***The Hunchback of Notre Dame is one of Disney's darkest stories. There are traditional Disney elements to prevent it from being too dark, such as the comedy sidekicks and funny animals. It has a silly show number in the middle that is out of place. The traditional elements actually end up hurting the overall picture. The straight to video sequel goes even further with the traditional elements, making a very much weaker picture. They are a touch of comedy in a serious more adult picture.What sets this one apart from other Disney films is that the movie is more adult in its themes. The film deals with many heavy themes such as, religious fanaticism, sexual desire, racism, and social norms. The songs are mostly serious, not the normal sing-a-long type of Disney song. Hellfire is an amazing serious, dark Disney song. The film does not take place in a beautiful kingdom, but instead in a poverty stricken Paris. Our female lead is not a princess, but a commoner. Our hero is not handsome, and doesn't get the girl. Then there is our villain Frollo.Frollo, in my opinion is Disney's most sinister villain; he makes no jokes, nor is he silly. Frollo brings no comedy to the picture; he is not played as a fool or coward. Frollo is fearsome, and a character that seems very real. Voiced by the late great Tony Jay, Frollo embodies the idea of religious fanaticism. He is so blinded by his beliefs; he does not question any of his beliefs. Frollo is so determined to save his city he that he is willing to first destroy it, he will even attempt destroy Norte Dame. Frollo is beyond the foolish and silly Disney villains (Captian Hook/ King John/ even Cruella DeVille), he is in a class alone. He is a man of hatred and violence that should chill even the oldest viewer. The film is so well made it is sad it is not seen as up to the standards to its fellow Disney pictures of the time. The film is forgotten because it is ugly. Our hero is seen as grotesque, the city is dirty, and many of the scenes are darker in color. But really what makes this film ugly is it deals with the ugliness of humanity. We see the cruelty and violence of man. No other Disney picture deals with such adult themes and darkness. It is a great film that should be seen, don't turn away from the ugliness, but understand it. This is Disney's dark gem, but a gem all the same.