From An American Tail to Thumbelina , Bluth's movies have been second only to the studio under which he made his name. Fortunately, Thumbelina breaks this non-Disney trend, presenting a theatrical experience that is lively and enjoyable for both children and adults. One day, while out riding his bumblebee, Cornelius overhears Thumbelina singing.
Circumstances bring the two together, and they are instantly smitten with each other.
But, before Cornelius can propose marriage, Thumbelina is stolen away by a gruesome toad who also wants her for his wife. In all of these areas, Thumbelina is close to, but not quite at, the level of The Little Mermaid , the weakest of Disney's recent entries. The same can be said of the other characters, most of whom are animals, and none of which embarrass their creators. Barry Manilow's music isn't as immediately recognizable as that of Alan Menken, but he does manage a worthy tune or two. There are several occasions when the plot seems rushed, especially towards the end.