This next picture was an interesting one to study. There was no full-length storyline like there was in Snow White or Pinocchio. Rather, this film, Fantasia, could be viewed more as a short story collection, or how it was originally titled, a Concert Feature. For this project, I’m focusing on the story itself, including dialogue, character development, any subplots, how a story presents itself, the speed at which it moves, if it slows down unnecessarily, etc.
Update: In February 2022, I started a video version of the DFP on Tiktok. You can find the video below. Thoughts expressed in the video may be different than what are expressed in the blog post, due to the time difference in posting.
A Brief Summary
In 1940, Mickey Mouse’s career soared to new heights, thanks to his performance as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, one of 7 musical segments in the film. With each segment a gorgeous blend of classical music and animation, this experimental film has risen to a lasting legacy in the history of animation. It includes magical brooms, dancing hippos and possibly the most wicked villain ever created by Disney.
What works
- This film has an unusual setup as it could be seen as a story (or stories) within a story. The overarching storyline is a night at the symphony, with each segment as a different number on the program. Then within that story, all but two of the segments have at least some semblance of an individual storyline.
- There’s not a single bit of dialogue in this picture OTHER than in between numbers when the Master of Ceremonies introduces a number or when Mickey congratulates the conductor on his excellent performance. Because of that, I feel like it makes the segments work that much harder to get whatever storyline across to the audience.
- I love that each segment is really only limited by the songs themselves. Having that internal clock in each segment means that there is not only an ending but a specific timeline to follow. Unlike in, say Snow White or Pinocchio, where a scene might continue after the song ends, Fantasia does not have that luxury. Having a firm cut off can amp up the creativity of what goes on during the song.
- When I was a kid, I always skipped the dinosaur/Rite of Spring segment because I thought it was boring. I don’t know if it was because I never gave it the chance or I’ve gained a few years but I love it now. It transports me to another time period, there’s dramatic life or death moments throughout the majority of the segment and it fuels the imagination with these prehistoric creatures.
What may or may not Work
- The film itself. The film is beautifully crafted, with thoughtfully chosen music and entertaining storylines. I really enjoy this film but I can definitely see it being an acquired taste. That being said, I’m grateful it exists because I find myself enjoying it more each time I watch it.
What doesn’t work
- The piercing eyes of the dinosaurs. They hardly blink, they stare through the screen into my soul. Do I need more nightmares? No, I don’t think I do, thank you very much.
Honorable Mentions
- The mushrooms during the Chinese dance in the Nutcracker Suite. The most freakin’ adorable thing in this entire movie.
- The ghosts during the Night on Bald Mountain segment. Scary, not just for the appearance but how they move.
Side Questions
- During Night on Bald Mountain, are the little demons immortal? Chernabog keeps changing them, torturing them or they just go and jump into whatever firepit exists for Chernabog’s pleasure.
- Dance of the Hours: Are the gators trying to eat everyone or are they really trying to dance? My thoughts flip-flop about that.
- Also, who is this Duke who’s palace they mess up and why isn’t he there? Is he a real person or merely a figment of the imagination?
What I learned from watching this film
- This whole movie is about experimentation and seeing what can be done with music. It reminds me of a short story I had to write for a college class that was based on a piece by Mozart (I think that was the artist, I could be wrong).
- After I finish the current short stories I’m working on, I’d really like to do a short story collection inspired by Fantasia. One where each short story is based on a singular piece of classical music. I might even try to organize it like how Fantasia is organized, with some abstract stories, some with no set plot line and some with a definite story.
If you’ve seen Fantasia, what did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Rewind to the beginning of the Disney Film Project
Skip back to the previous film with Pinocchio
Fast Forward to the next film with The Reluctant Dragon
It has been many years since I watched this movie. I watched it with my oldest daughter a few times. Apparently, I wasn’t paying much attention back then because I didn’t get nearly as much out of it as you did. I loved your descriptions and can’t wait to go check it out again after so many years.
I think this movie so Disney classics I love all that music .
It does bring back some old memories! Would love to see it again!
Heard of this movie from you today. It sounds interesting. I need to go look for it.
This movie sounds really interesting. I’ll check it out!
I admit, I never cared for Fantasia. I did like the music, but I could never watch it all the way through because I got bored.
It has been quite a while since I’ve seen Fantasia. You’re attention to detail though! You’re making me want to go back and rewatch it!
I haven’t seen this movie before and from your description I don’t know what to think. On one side it sounds like a wonderful movie with a great music, but on the other, the action is quite bizarre.
I am not a big Fantasia fan either. I’m a Beauty and the Beast girl.
I’ve never watched Fantasia. Interesting review. I would love to check it out myself one of these days.
I havent seen it as yet ! I will now for sure !
I have to say I have never watched Fantasia. It wasn’t even on the radar. Maybe I will watch it with the kids. Good luck your stories!
OMG, I haven’t seen this movie in years. When I worked for Disney, I bought the Fantasia movie gift pack which is still sealed in my garage. It’s probably time to open it up and introduce my grandkids to this movie!
I haven’t seen this movie in what feels like EONS!!!! I remember sort of watching though and not enjoying it, probably because there was too much music sadly. It was lost on me!
It has been SO LONG since I watched Fantasia! Thanks so much for sharing this with us!
I remember watching Fantasia on a Movie Day in primary school – I loved the movie. So enchanting.
I haven’t seen this movie. Will be sure to look for it when it is on.
As someone who always watches the bonus behind the scenes videos for Disney movies, this intrigues me! I’d love to watch it.
I loved this movie growing up! It is such a classic movie.
I’m not sure if I ever watched this movie. By your detailed review I believe that it’s not my type. It does have some interesting points though. Thank you for being so honest and sharing your point of view.
I love Fantasy movie but it’s a little boring, but I enjoy the music
I haven’t ever heard of this movie….but it seems much interesting…. Thanks for sharing it….gonna watch it
I watched Fantasia years ago but really loved it. I didn’t see all the things you mentioned, so would like to watch it again!
I have never seen this movie. Now I want to watch it.
I haven’t seen this movie before, but if you say that this is classic, I should include this in my watch list… <3
Love,
Cha of Little Misadvencha
I have not heard of this movie before. However, your review has me intrigued. i will check out this movie.
I don’t think I’ve ever watched this movie before si I’ve learnt so much from reading this.
I’ve yet to see Fantasia. I know, I know I’m years too late. But I hear it’s fantastic for the year it was brought out. I’ll definitely have to use this time to check it out.
I haven’t seen this movie yet. It looks like a great one to see with kids.
I remember watching this film in elementary school music class and being bored out of my mind. I may have to check it out again and watch it with new eyes and a better sense of appreciation.
I actually cannot remember watching this movie at all and I don’t like it when someone spoils the ending or middle of the story for me. So, I stopped myself from reading your review as I want to watch the movie first. haha!
We watched this movie as a family and loved it! I love all Disney movies and this one definitely did not disappoint.
I have not seen this movie but after reading your review I am most interested in watching it with my kids.
Fantasia was my favorite movie growing up! I feel like that’s so weird because no one my age every watched it, but I was obsessed. I love your review of the music and the purpose behind the movie! I never thought of it that way!
This is my least favorite Disney movie, I have just never understood it.
Fantasia was always so magical for me growing up! I absolutel love the part with the flowers.
I love Fantasia. Great movie, I need to rewatch it and rewatch it soon, thanks for the idea
Oh I love watching Disney movies, I should see this with my family very soon!
Ahhh I can’t wait to see this! I have loved Disney movies my entire life but have yet to see this one.
I do love Fantasia. I even liked the sequel. But it’s definitely an acquired taste. Such a beautiful achievement. But even Disney couldn’t make it work beyond the original. The sequel didn’t come around until well after his death. Even if he intended on making many of these when he did the original.