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In 1947 would come "Mickey and The Beanstalk," a surprisingly
developed short from the Disney studio. Based on the storybook
classic, as are most of the films in these collections,
"Mickey and The Beanstalk," is an adventure involving three
of Disney's most beloved characters" Donald, Goofy, and
of course, Mickey Mouse. Also included in this set are "The
Brave Little Tailor," "Thru the Mirror," "Gulliver Mickey,"
and "Mr. Mouse Takes a Trip." However, "Beanstalk," is the
most enjoyable of the bunch. This adventure stands out among
all Disney shorts, at least in my memory because as I watched
it again, details and images came back to me in the most
vivid of ways. From the period-perfect vocals, resounding
beautifully from a harp-bodied princess, whom Mic key vows
to rescue, to the dazed expressions on Donald's face during
a drought, "Mickey and The Beanstalk," is a special kind
of cinematic memorabilia. ****
This film truly shows the positive progression of Disney
animation, building off of the pure creativity of earlier
shorts, and combining that with richer storytelling. What
makes short films such as this so incredible is their ability
to create an emotional connection within such a limited
period of time. Luckily, all of these characters are easily
identifiable, and with a significant amount of gusto, "Mickey
and The Beanstalk," is actually quite rousing. The scene
in which the beanstalk grows is effortlessly magical. Now
unlike many of these tales, I believe that this one could
have been lengthened into a feature film. The ending is
rather abrupt, and uses an irritating "happily ever after,"
cop-out to cover for it. However, for the short time that
we are invested in this story, the rewards are plentiful,
and as my memory has proved, this film will not be forgotten.
****
"Mickey and The Beanstalk" is charming, and whimsical
picture, which stands alone=2 0as a completely satisfying
piece of entertainment. The score is sweeping, and the songs
worthy of the brilliant slumbers they induce. It is unfortunate
that such sayings have become cliched, but this one is magic.
The finest version of the fairy tale ever made.
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