Product: The Rescuers Down Under [VHS] (1990)
Rating: 5.0
The Rescuers Down Under on DVD highly recommended
This is a full-of-fun animated movie from Disney. It marks the return of those two famous mice Bernard (Bob Newhart) and Miss Bianca (Eva Gabor) from the Rescue Aide Society first seen in THE RESCUERS (1977). This time they're called to Australia after receiving a message that an eagle and a little boy have been kidnapped by a devious poacher, McLeach (played to the hilt by George C. Scott). They make the journey to Australia on an airline, this time run by Wilbur the Albatross (John Candy). The animation is much different from the style seen in the original, but is more suited for the various flight sequences boasting the lofty grace of the eagle; not to mention McLeach's motorized cage. This film, after the success of THE LITTLE MERMAID helped restore the Disney product and animation in general to the forefront of entertainment for children as well as adults alike. The film has a message about the plight of endangered species as well. Composer, Bruce Broughton's score is dazzling and rousing. I wish Disney would reissue the entire soundtrack. Glen Keane is among the main animators. This is a very enjoyable film. Even though it is a sequel it stands very solidly on its own merits. The DVD version is beautiful and highly recommended.