BUY IT AT AMAZON FROM JUNE 17th!!!

The sixties had brought tremendous changes in film, but especially in animation. Limited animation techniques and xeroxing methods transformed hand-drawn animation into quicker and leaner storytelling methods. Much of the lush, vibrant animation that defined Disney classics like SNOW WHITE or BAMBI was replaced by a sketchier, rougher look. Occasionally this method worked stylistic wonders for certain films - 101 DALMATIONS, for example - but other animated films cry out for a more detailed approach.

THE SWORD IN THE STONE is one such example. Produced after 101 DALMATIONS, the film employs the same limited animation techniques pioneered for the puppy classic to a similarly limited effect. Where the technique gave DALMATIONS a jazzy feel, it gives a cheap and inappropriately modern feel to this tale of Arthur, Merlin, and magic.

The film follows a 12 year old Arthur as he meets Merlin in his forest cottage. Merlin decides to train the boy in magic, with the typical comedic results. Unbeknownst to Arthur, he is the rightful and future king of England, destined to pull Excalibur from the stone and reign supreme. Merlin does his best to teach young Arthur the ways of magic. Unfortunately, Arthur is taken captive by Merlin’s rival, Mad Madame Mim. A wizard’s duel ensues, with the fate of England resting on the outcome.

For most of the running time THE SWORD IN THE STONE feels lightweight and inconsequential, with constantly silly transformations and very goofy characterizations. Near the end, the film tries to add some much-needed gravity during the duel, only to find it’s too late to save the picture. This is clearly B-grade Disney stuff, which is a shame given that this was the last film completed in Walt’s lifetime.

The voice work here nearly rescues the film from the cheap animation and flimsy storytelling. Karl Swenson is wonderful as Merlin, his voice inflecting just the right amount of wisdom and fun. However, nobody outshines the brilliant turn of Martha Wentworth as Mad Madame Mim, whose voice alone renders her one of Disney’s best villains.

THE SWORD IN THE STONE, although a minor film in the Disney canon, is suitably appropriate for very young kids, who will appreciate the gentle humor and simple story. For the rest of us, this is a disappointing film in comparison with the greatest achievements of the studio.

EXTRAS

This is an anniversary edition??? Aside from some interactive games and a few musical shorts, there is almost nothing on here to justify another edition of this film on DVD. A total cash-in on Disney’s part. Disappointing, especially given how lavishly the studio released 101 DALMATIONS earlier in the year.

OVERALL

A minor film that’s good for younger kids or diehard fans of Disney animation. The rest of us might want something more. However, this DVD set is not worth the asking price, nor is it an appropriate anniversary celebration. Very disappointing and cheap.