This Disney masterpiece from 1940 will hold up forever precisely because it doesn't restrain or temper the most elemental emotions and themes germane to its story. Based on the Collodi tale about a wooden puppet who wants to become a real boy,
Pinocchio is among the most magical, mythical, and frightening films to come from the studio in its long history. A number of scenes make permanent impressions on young minds (just ask Steven Spielberg, who quoted the film more than once in
Close Encounters of the Third Kind), and the songs ("When You Wish upon a Star") can't be beat.
--Tom Keogh
1 Platinum edition due. Wait!!!
A time when the Platinum edition for Pinocchio has not been announced yet, but it is in the process of joining the platinum edition series.
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.
Basically, Disney gave this film and viewers the shaft (when it comes to the DVD release). Pinnochio Platinum wont be out till at least 2007, but it is worth the wait.
(NOTE: the little mermaid is scheduled for platinum in 2006). Dont miss Cinderella platinum in fall 2005
2 ...Well
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 can't talk in real life, and, nobody loves you enough for oyu to be real. This video was never one of my favorites, but instead i've 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.
3 Sleeping Beauty
I recieved the movie in very good condition and on a very timely basis. Thank you
4 Golden Animation
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 Gepetto's 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.
5 Essentially essential. Period.
Disney's 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.
6 Parents Pinocchio still makes a great holiday gift
When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you
are, anything you heart desires will come to you."
You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?
It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's 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.
Many parents are probably still scrambling finding gifts
for their kids, but I urge all parents who feel the need
to buy their kids violent games in order to satisfy to
make a better decision and buy a classic family valued classic
like Pinocchio.
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 Pinocchio's 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.
It's 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 children's hearts.
Go out and buy this for youre children
You can get the DVD or buy the Special Edition VHS cassette
which has been restored and looks fabulous, Walt Disney
himself would be proud of his work has been remaster and
once again upon for a young generation to love.
7 One of Disney's best, but needlessly blown out of proportion
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 don't understand why parents say they don't 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 Geppetto's pillow goes right over any young child's 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 didn't make such a big stink over EVERYTHING that happens in a children's 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! It's 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.
8 Steven this was your night, love Garry
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
9 A BOY ON A STRING
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 there's a moral to the story-don't 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 don't see beyond the lights, or the painted background.
THEY JUST LIKE TO SEE YOU FALL.'-Jars of Clay's song A Boy on a String
10 A puppet classic!
This is a true classic! I have been watching this movie ever since I was 5. Now I am 16 and still like it.
A man named Gepetto(along with his cat Figarro and his goldfish Cleo) makes his own puppets and toys for him to enjoy. His most special puppet is Pinocchio who he wishes could be a real boy. His wish comes true when a fairy came and brought Pinocchio to life but still as a puppet. The fairy realizes that Gepetto not only deserves a boy but a good boy. In order for pinocchio to become a real boy he has to be brave, truthful, and unselfish. Pinocchio is being guided by his conscience named Jimminy Cricket. As the story goes on one day when Pinocchio was supposed to go to school a character named Honest John distracts him and says he can make money performing in a Marionette Show. Pinocchio agrees instead of listening to Jimminy Cricket. But the man Strumbolli(who was in charge of the show) was using Pinocchio because he could talk. pinocchio ended up being locked in a cage. Not even Jimminy could get him out. When the fairy came Pinocchio thought he could get away by lying to her about how he ended up locked in a cage.his nose grew as he lied. But the fairy forgived him and gave him another chance. As they were running home Honest John came back and told Pinocchio about a place where kids can do whatever they want smoke, eat, drink, vandalize, go on rides, tear down buildings etc. Again pinocchio goes along and meets a new friend Lampwick. After realizing that the kids including Lampwick and Pinocchio were turning into donkeys because of a scheme somebody was planning Pinocchio realized he had to get home. On the way home Gepetto, Figarro, and Cleo ends up missing and said to be inside a famous whale named Monstro. Pinocchio and Jimminy are off to the search. I won't ruin the ending of the movie. While you are watching it you can notice the times when Pinocchio was untruthful, selfish, and unbrave.
A good movie with a good story, adventure, and humor.This movie really gives a moral to children that if you misbehave or are hardheaded you will get into a lot of trouble like what Pinocchio did. I hope this was helpful enough. This is pretty much what happened in the movie and it would be better watching it than reading my review. Go ahead and see it!
11 This movie was such a bad movie!
I've always hated this movie, not due to it's "violent and disturbing content" but because of it's bad acting and pure stupidity. This movie is a children's movie, anyone who complains that it's 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 that's not what I'm here to talk about, I'm here to talk about how bad this movie is. It's voice actors aren't 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!
12 Cute Older Disney Movie!
I like Disney movies and I remember watching Pinocchio on video with my nephews when they were little and I thought it was a cute movie and I highly recommend it!
13 Masterpiece Pinocchio by Luske Hamilton and Ben Sharpsteen
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you
are, anything you heart desires will come to you."
You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?
It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's 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 Pinocchio's 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.
It's 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 children's hearts.
Go out and buy this for youre children
14 The Truth Will Set You Free
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 he's 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 he's 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.
15 The Puppet Show
This certainly is not one of my favorite Disney movies. I just really didn't 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 didn't hit home for me.
16 Pure Entertainment (With No Strings Attached)!
The TV Guide called this gem "arguably, the best animated feature of all time," that's a little hyped up if you ask me (but still, Pinocchio gets 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars from me). It has the best animation any cartoon studio has to offer (espcially for 1940), some of the best musical numbers, and INCREDIBLE voice talents! Cliff Edwards and Dickie Jones should have won themselves a couple of awards just for their voice work as Jiminey Cricket (Edwards) and Pinocchio (Jones), they both work PERFECTLY together.
The music and songs are one of the best things about "Pinocchio." Everytime I watch the DVD, I like turn on the subtitles and sing the songs with the characters (Hi Diddle Dee Dee and I've Got No Strings are my faves).
Some of the characters even remind me about people I know. When I was young, I could easily picture myself as Pinocchio. The "Lampwick" character reminds me a lot about the "hoodlum" classmates I go to school with (jackasses).
Pinocchio is a movie that ALL parents should watch with their children. The scene where Pinocchio gets locked in a cage by Stromboli (a greedy puppet master) demonstrates the unpleasent consequences for trusting strangers (Honest John and Giddy) that outsmart their "victims" with TEMPTATION. The "Donkey Transformation" scene is a very powerful (and frightening) sequence that gives an example about why you shouldn't be a destructive little brat (jackass).
17 Not my favorite, but a classic
"Doesn't 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 I'm 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.
18 A True Classic
As a kid, my friends and I never wanted to watch this movie. It wasn't 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 Disney's 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 DVD's 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 I'd wait a couple of years for the 2-disc release.
19 A sad sick society and a GREAT MASTERPIECE
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 PhD's, and am a retired professor who at the moment am building computers and reading at least 2 books a week. I've 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. I'm 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 won't 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.
20 Walt Disney's Animated Masterpiece
Walt Disney in my belief never topped his stunning achievement in movie animation with "Pinocchio", the classic children's story based on the equally classic late 19th Century story by Carlo Collodi. Indeed this story is truly for children and adults alike with it's 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 Disney's first excursion into animated feature films with "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", "Pinocchio", is the studio's supreme achievement that has enchanted and enthralled each new generation with it's 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 Geppetto's 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 Pinocchio's 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 doesn't want to be a part of.
Treasured as a great children's classic "Pinocchio", certainly has it's 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 Disney's 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.
21 Not a good video for younger viewers
While Pinocchio may be considered one of Disney's classics, some of the scenes/content in this older animation would not be shown or considered appropriate in today's children's 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 wouldn't 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 won't show over and over.
22 Walt Disneys Pinocchio
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you
are, anything you heart desires will come to you."
You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?
It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's 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 Pinocchio's 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.
It's 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 children's hearts.
Go out and buy this for youre children
23 He wants to be a real boy.
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 doesn't 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 he'll 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. Pete's 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.
24 Pinocchio - A Dream Come True
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.
25 Fun for everyone, and a great way to talk about good and bad
My three year old loves this movie, and sings along with most of the songs. The great songs and story aren't the only treasure within this movie though, we also find a wonderful moral lesson which isn't specific to any particular religion, but is common to all religious and moral principles.
Since Pinocchio was only born yesterday(pun intended) he's not versed in the ways of the world, so we get to see him fall into bad company when he doesn't listen to his consious, Jiminy Cricket. What an excellent way to be able to bring up the subject of people out there who aren't 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 isn't so bad? When I saw it as a child I don't 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 Jiminy's 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.
26 EEWW!! DORKY PUPPET THING!!
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!!
27 Pinocchio- Special Edition
What can I say about Pinocchio that you don't already know. We already know it is a timeless Disney classic. The animation detail is about the finest you'll find anywhere. Even with the great detail of recent animated features such as Atlantis and Treasure Planet you'll 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 Pinocchio's 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 I'm sure we could have more featurettes on how Pinocchio has helped bring about the animation of today. Here's 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 don't 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!
28 A TERRIFIC TREAT FOR THE YOUNG*AT*HEART
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 d'Pinocchio".
29 One Star....All For Jiminy Cricket!
That's 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 should've 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! He's awesome! I hate the goldfish, however!
All those who say this is one of Disney's best: BAH HUMBUG!
30 Disturbing family film
Disney's animated film, Pinocchio, is the story of a marionette, which is also known as a puppet on strings. He is fashioned out of Gepetto's own hands, and steals the puppet master's 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. He's an all around entertainer that wooden boy.
A small cricket named "Jiminey" has taken up residence in Gepetto's home. Blue Fairy deems "Jiminey Cricket" Pinocchio's 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? You'll have to watch to find out. It's 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 Gepetto's 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(Pinoc's new friend) being transformed was bizarre and creepy. But that's how the story goes...
I like this movie for it's 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.
31 Great Quality
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 don't know if ti is as full featured as this one. Watching the original trailer.
32 One of the best Disney animated movie
Pinocchio was Walt Disney's 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 Pinocchio's 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.
33 Pinnochio - Add it to the Collection
Of course, it's 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.
34 My three years old daughter loves it!
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. There's 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 White's 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.
35 Walt Disney's Masterpiece as told by this Great critic
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you
are, anything you heart desires will come to you."
You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?
It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's 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 Pinocchio's 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.
It's 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 children's hearts.
Go out and buy this for youre children
36 Dude, that hunk of wood is alive!!
All disney's are good, but this one is a little creepy. let us begin at the begining. Pinocchion is a pupput who wants to be a real boy. He has more personality than some boys I know to begin with. But he is made of WOOD!!!... And he TALKS!!!... Tell me that isn't the creepist thing you ever heard. Then there is a talking bug. he tells Pinocchio what is right and what is wrong. In my day, we called that the bible or the cops in dire situations. The puppetmaster Gepitio is creepy also. he wants a real boy so he builds a puppet. All in all, i think this is a creepy movie, and os so fun to make fun of.
37 The Greatest Disney movie ever!
Walt Disney's second animated feature after his successful " Snow White" this one was a major success too with the audience and critics, learning that Disney can create movie magic.
It's about the story of a Puppet named " Pinocchio" who came to life after he was blessed by a Fairy now he must learn to be good so he can become a real boy but now he gets into a series of troubling adventures that puts him on a experience of his life including trying to find his father from "Monstro".
A brilliantly animated masterpiece with quotable lines, great songs and outstanding animation that makes this a must own DVD for animation fans.
38 A timeless classic
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 Disney's 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!
39 A great Disney classic, but few bonus materials on the DVD
Pinocchio on DVD has a much improved picture and sound quality than the VHS. However, there are almost no bonus materials on the DVD to distinguish it from the VHS. The Gold Collection by Disney is quite disappointing overall.
40 Good
It's 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 it's probably an essential for the collection of Disney videos.
41 Surprisingly dark movie...but still Disney sweet!
...
It's really a dark movie for little kids (even though I was tiny when I first saw it and it hasn't 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 wouldn't advise against letting little kids watch this unless they are very sensitive (which come to think of it, I was, too, and it didn't 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 ("I'll never see my father again!") - yes, I almost cried watching a cartoon in a college class! - but I wasn't alone. Almost every female in the room had the same reaction.
All in all, it's not the best Disney movie, but far from the worst! I would recommend it!
42 good
its a good movie about the pinocchio tale. not my fav disney movie, but its good, good cast, well written, etc.
43 Magic, Magic, Magic - Wish Upon A Star!
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.
44 Like a Bolt Out of the Blue...
What a timeless classic! Pinocchio tells the story of Gepetto's love for his little wooden boy who can walk and talk, and the little boy's 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...it's Disney magic!
45 PINOCCHIO: THE TIMELESS MASTERPIECE
Pinocchio
Reviewed by Sera Elisabeth
Walt Disney's 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 !
46 Disney's Masterpiece
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 Collodi's 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 life's 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. Don't 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 we'll see the version we want!
47 Disney's Masterpiece
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 Collodi's 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 life's 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. Don't 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 we'll see the version we want!
48 Fantastic Movie, Terrible DVD
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 Pan's first DVD release was similar until they re-released it with much more bonus material in conjuntion with "Return to Neverland."
49 5 stars for movie, 3 1/2 for disc
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, it's so hard to believe it's 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 that's all I didn't like about the disc.
Please, pay no attention to the lack of extras, just get the DVD for the film itself. Believe me, it's so very worth it!
50 Brilliant movie. Why no deluxe DVD?
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 you're a kid you are affected strongly by a movie, and when you're 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 it's 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.
There's a hypocrisy in a movie about honesty being packaged so sleazily that may not be suitable for younger children.
51 Any real boy or girl will enjoy this; a true classic!
The world was still marveling at the astonishing accomplishments the Disney stuido had made with 1937's "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 disc's 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.
52 Ooops - who let Goofy in the copy-room?
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.
53 The Magic of Disney Comes Alive
The release of Disney's 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 Cricket's disapproval. Pinocchio is awestruck with the idea and goes on stage for this man. He sings "I've 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 Geppetto's 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 Disney's 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.
54 Disney's Pinocchio Limited Issue DVD
Good thing Pinocchio was not the 1st Disney Classic DVD that I bought (it's my 5th), because it would have completely overshadowed the other masterpieces that are in my DVD collection. Disney's 2nd film is a terrific viewing experience, in this 60th Anniversary THX Certified Limited Issue DVD. I hadn't 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 it's 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 Disney's greatest landmarks, and should be on the top of the list for those who want to collect these great films . Get this classic today!
55 5 Star Movie -- 3 Star DVD
A timeless classic which can be apreciated over and over again by people of all ages. "Pinocchio", Disney's 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 today's standards. The characters -- Jiminy Cricket, Geppetto, the evil Honest John and of course, Pinocchio -- are amongst Disney's 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 they'd do the same for not only "Pinocchio", but all of their animated classics. For the high price that Disney asks, you'd think we'd get a little more. However, this is just a minor gripe and overall, I'm pleased to own this animated classic. Highly recommended to anyone and everyone!
56 lie
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.
57 Cinema's greatest scene of horror
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.
58 Timeless, even for a child of the '80s
This might've 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. It's great. It's 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 didn't 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 didn't 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 haven't seen this version, go rent it or even buy it! You won't be disappointed in this great Disney Classic.
59 Timeless Musical Fantasy
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 Geppetto's 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: "Wouldn't 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 Disney's movies. Will he find his father? I won't 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 didn't 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 can't 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.
60 Great movie for people of all ages
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 that's what it taught me. This will always be a classic.
61 Hi di di di dee .. An Actor's Life for Me !!!
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.
62 Dreams Come True!
Disney's "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 it's up to Pinocchio to finish Geppetto's 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, it's 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.
63 Dreams Come True!
Disney's "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 escription perfectly!
Geppettpo is a lonely wood carver until one night when the blue fairy grants his wish of his puppet Pinocchio becomeing alive. But it's up to Pinocchio to finish Geppetto's 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, it's 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 "A Wish Come True: The Making of Pinocchio." So if you bought the video when it first came out, you may consider buying it again.
64 A good but not great movie
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 Geppetto's 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 DVD's, giving hope that one day this will be re-released with some interesting behind the scenes information.
I realize many people consider this Walt Disney's ultimate masterpiece. For me, however, this is a good movie but doesn't live up to some of his others.
65 Pinocchio = Disney's True Masterpiece!
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 Collodi's 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 life's 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. Don't 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".
Pinocchio's 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 Disney's 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 we'll see the version we want!
66 Magical
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, Disney's second feature-length film and in my opinion one of the studio's 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 they're never like the huge production numbers that last four minutes and feature the voice of some up-and-coming princess of pop (who'll 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 (Collodi's character) and turns him into an interesting, 3-dimensional kid with a good heart but who is weak-willed and doesn't 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.
67 A classic
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
68 Poor presentation of a true classic
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 Geppetto's 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 they'll love it anyway. Just like they love tales of the Brothers Grimm.
The only problem is that the transfer for this DVD isn't 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 wouldn't 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.
69 Brilliant animation, dark story
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 Gepetto's 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.
70 One of the best animated films ever
Ever since I was a kid, "Pinocchio" has always been one of my favorites. It's 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. It's 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.
71 timeless
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 doesn't 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.
72 The Mount Everest of Animated Film
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. It's simply perfect and Disney didn't get the financial support afterwards that enabled him to create this breathtaking masterwork. Nowadays, there's so much emphasis on the highly praised "effects orgies", but they are mere trilbies, compared to this "chapeau magique".
73 simply the greatest Disney animated feature, ever!
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. It's 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 don't already own it, buy it now.
74 DISNEY CHAMP
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.
75 One of the Greats
Everybody loves Pinocchio. The characters, the animation, the EVERYTHING about it is timeless in the joy they bring to people of all ages. You'll 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 can't 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.
76 A lousy way to treat your "masterpiece" Disney!
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. They're no fools, they probably figure if they include the extras on the DVD now, no one will buy it again because DVDs don't wear out! It all comes down to the almighty dollar, right Disney? When Disney does include extras, like on A Bug's 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 don't mind paying a little extra for DVDs like the Prince of Egypt or The Iron Giant (another superb film). Wise up Disney, you won't 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.
77 Quintessential Disney
"Pinocchio" was Walt Disney's 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 don't make these kinds of movies anymore, which is both a tragedy and a travesty.
78 This Disney Used to Scare Me the Most
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 Pinocchio's 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 Disney's other full-length features of the time. It certainly deserves a full five stars, but it doesn't 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, I'd hold off on PINOCCHIO for a while.
79 A Priceless Family Movie!
A milestone in animated films, but it's also a timeless movie that appeals to kids as well as adults. It's 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 that's hard to beat, the movie basically puts you under Disney's 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 there's a certain air of experimentalism to them, animated films were just a new thing and they could take you places you couldn't 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!
80 DVD Quality Poor--Disney Still Magical!
Of all DVDs I had the pleasure of watching, this one lacks the high standards attributed to this breakthrough in technology we call DVD. The absence of widescreen is likely due to the fact that feature films in 1940 were almost all in the format more closely relative to TV screens. That fact alone didn't lose any stars from my rating. I was disappointed, however, to see little more than the classic animated movie itself--where are the wonderful "how it all came to be" stories? Where is Walt Disney showing off his new masterpiece feature film? -- The "DVD Magic" is not there, but we still have the "Disney Magic", shining as always!
81 A disappointing DVD can't bring down this great movie
First the movie: Wonderful musical that is something I'll always love. The story isn't 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 I've 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 won't 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 wasn't 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.
82 Excellant!
This is great! One of my favorites. Excellant music & Jiminy is one of my favorites characters!
83 no extra features!
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!
84 Arguably the greatest Disney film ever...
I'll leave the technical debates to the other reviewers, and just say that I'm perfectly happy with the DVD version I purchased.
I'd rather discuss the film itself. The title of this review speaks for itself. Sure, the technology available to the artists then doesn't 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 one's 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 Pinocchio's 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 30's; the songs, humor, and simple morality story of Pinocchio is one that children of all ages will always love...
85 What's With These Widescreen People?
I don't think from what I have heard and read that the DVD version of PINOCCHIO is much better (if at all) than the version I have on laser. And I don't understand why people are commenting on the lack of wide screen, (Michelle in Sydney, Australia really doesn't understand the concept of letterboxing). I bought a big screen TV so that I could watch movies in their original aspect ratio, and for PINOCCHIO, the 1:33 is as close as you will get to the theatrical image. Wide screen (2:35) was first done in the '30s for a John Wayne western (shown on AMC a few years ago, but I have forgotten the title); then it was abandoned as was movie color in its early days. When TV came along, Hollywood fought back with 3-D, Cinerama, CinemaScope, etc. If you consider yourself to be a movie buff, these are just the basic elements! If a movie were photographed in a round format, or a triangular one and it was a movie I wanted to see, I would want to see it that way! Hence, home theater -- big screen, surround sound, etc. Rarely do I go out to see a movie since I have a set-up which rivals and sometimes outdoes some theaters regarding picture quality and sound even though I have what would be considered medium-priced gear. Thanks.
86 Defective DVD?
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 can't 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... where's the making-of extra, if it's on video? That's outrageous! The film itself gets 5 stars, the DVD release only 2 stars.
87 Pinocchio is one of my all time favorites
I'm so glad that they are doing the Disney movies on DVD now. The quality of the picture and sound are excellent. We've added this to our DVD collection along with all of the other Disney DVD's. I have almost all of the Disney movies on video... and hope to continue to add to our DVD collection
88 Finally! Disney Masterpieces on DVD!
Wow. It's 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.
89 One of the greatest
I'm personally only buying the Disney DVD's 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.
90 Absolutely Outstanding. You will be amazed!
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 aren't 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, isn't it?
91 No Widescreen? Read the package
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!
92 DVD a big cost for little return
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!
93 Pinocchio- The animated masterpiece
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.
94 Great film, Awful Disc
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.
95 Pinocchio on DVD is amazing!
Okay people...the first widescreen disney animated movie was Lady and the Tramp in 1955. So don't 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 didn't include more extra features but the colors are superb and the movie is the most enjoyable it has ever been.
96 One of the best from the Disney library
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.
97 Great Overall
This movie is terrific. I hadn't seen it for many years...since i was a child. I don't regret buying it at all. It has a magical quality about it that hasn't 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 it's great that children can see something totally moralizing. This is perhaps Walt Disney's finest!!
98 Too expensive for the package, but....
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 wasn't filmed that way!
99 What is Gatsby's Problem?
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.
100 One of Disney's Better Films
Pinocchio, yes.. one of Disney's better films before the organization went bad. The video is not bad, but I do not agree with the organization.
