the cynic in me is going to remain quiet whilst i write this piece, with attention turned to the downright appeal of the archetypal disney films. sure i understand completely that theyre a shrewd front to sell towels and assorted fare, and that their sexual politics leave a lot to be desired, but there is something that appeals from disney on a level that is synonomous with childhood and innocence and pure joy.
sleeping beauty, largely based on the tchaikovsky ballet interpretation of the fairy tale was the first animated film to be shot using 70mm film, and as such has a very unique scale of scope within the frame. the remastered print is of an outstanding quality, complimenting the visuals in a way that i dont imagine has ever actually been seen. the film itself is far too familiar to warrant a formal introduction, with the films theme predominently dealing with the tome of "good versus evil", albeit in a relatable and accessible manner, appropriate for the films target audience. the films score is heavily inspired by tchaikovsky's ballet score, and features such fare as "once upon a dream", which would go on to be considered to be one of the most memorable of the disney songs. another first for the film was its use of stereoscopic sound, the first use of its kind. the brief running time was also welcome, alas not as a critique towards the piece, but moreso as a genuinely welcome compliment towards the way in which the film manages to be wholly contained and satisfying within such a brief period of time.
for a piece of cinema that celebrates its fiftieth birthday this year, sleeping beauty still maintains an appeal to even the most headstrong of viewers.
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