Hats Off to Hollywood: Pinocchio
Duke: Well, here we go again. This time, Rex and I sat down to watch Pinocchio, number 2 on the AFI's top 10 animated movies list. And let me tell you, folks, it was quite the experience. A wooden puppet coming to life? That’s something straight out of a tall tale, if you ask me.
Rex: "To be brave is to love someone unconditionally without expecting anything in return." Pinocchio, released in 1940 by Walt Disney, is a timeless classic that tells the story of a wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy. It's a tale filled with moral lessons, adventure, and the importance of honesty and bravery.
Duke: Sure, the movie’s got its history. Pinocchio was Disney’s second animated feature after Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Back then, they were really breaking new ground with these animated pictures. I’ll give them credit for that. The animation was pretty impressive for its time, and the music ain’t half bad either. But, honestly, the story is just plain weird. Talking crickets, whale bellies, and boys turning into donkeys? What were they thinking?
Rex: "It's the journey, not the destination, that matters." The story of Pinocchio is rich with symbolic elements and life lessons. The Blue Fairy grants Geppetto’s wish and brings Pinocchio to life, setting him on a path of self-discovery. Guided by Jiminy Cricket, his conscience, Pinocchio learns about the consequences of lying, the value of hard work, and the importance of listening to one's moral compass. The film's historical context also reflects the innovative spirit of Disney during the early 20th century, pushing the boundaries of animation and storytelling.
Duke: Yeah, yeah, I get it. It’s a classic. But that doesn’t mean I have to like it. The whole thing’s just too preachy for my taste. And Pinocchio himself? The kid’s a troublemaker. Always getting into one mess after another. If I had a nickel for every time he disobeyed someone, I’d be richer than a gold rush prospector.
Rex: "Experience is the teacher of all things." Pinocchio’s journey is indeed filled with misadventures, but each one teaches him—and us—valuable lessons. The movie's themes of redemption and transformation are timeless, and its influence on animation and popular culture is undeniable. The character of Jiminy Cricket even gave us the classic song, "When You Wish Upon a Star," which has become synonymous with Disney itself.
Duke: I’ll give you that, Rex. The music is pretty catchy. And I suppose the film’s message about telling the truth and being brave is something folks can get behind. But I still can’t wrap my head around that whale scene. Monstro’s one scary critter, I’ll admit, but it’s just a bit too far-fetched for my liking.
Rex: "Imagination is the highest kite one can fly." The fantastical elements of Pinocchio are what make it such an enchanting and enduring film. It’s a celebration of creativity and the power of storytelling. The movie has stood the test of time, continuing to captivate audiences with its heartfelt narrative and groundbreaking animation.
Duke: Well, there you have it, folks. If you’re into old-timey classics with a lot of moral lessons, Pinocchio might be right up your alley. As for me, I’ll stick to the simpler tales. Until next time, folks, keep your hats on and your remotes ready! See you at the movies!
Rex: "Every movie is a voyage, with its own set of challenges and rewards." Until next time, folks, keep your hats on and your remotes ready! See you at the movies!
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About the Authors
Rex, who speaks in maxims, loves every movie and TV show, making him the perfect counterbalance to Duke. Rex is also known for rescuing an armadillo and celebrating both Christmas and Chanukah.
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