Pinocchio (Disney Gold Classic Collection) Reviews

• A sad sick society and a GREAT MASTERPIECE

  
  By A1C4EUJUIXGU61 on 2003-12-12
  I am 70 yrs. old, and saw all of the great Disney movies on their original release as a child. Lest my qualifications are questioned, I have TWO PhD's, and am a retired professor who at the moment am building computers and reading at least 2 books a week. I've travelled all of the "lower" 48, and visited over 20 (again) in the last 3 years.
  We have become a nation so frightened and split into groups that teach children fear and hatred. I'm afraid of what the children will become. I have a dozen grand children (at the moment) and have bought them all copies of the my fovorite Disney movies, with Snow White, Pinnocchio and (original) Fantasia at the top. Neither I, nor any of my friends my age, thought of those early movies as anything but what they were--wonderful stories. An example of the worst of our society is Eisner--a monster who takes movies off the market for years, and has stated he won't release the great folk tale "The Song of the South" because it MIGHT be "politically incorrect," an ugly concept that divides our country into "clans" walking on eggs in fear of "offending" some other group. I have watched most of the movies with each of my grand children, and SURPRISE, they loved them and are growing up to be intellegent and open minded, without fear or hate or whining. They learn their values from parents,grand parents and friends, not from movies and not from the twisted ideas of people they are pushed to associate with.
  
  

• Timeless Musical Fantasy

  
  By A281NPSIMI1C2R on 2001-07-21
  Disney has restored this all-time classic to its original brilliance. The universal themes of love, family, friendship and good vs. evil make this educational and enjoyable. Yes, there are some quite scary scenes and evil is shown for what it is. However, just as in most fairy tales, good triumphs over evil in the end.
  
  The story is told by Jiminy Cricket and the start of the movie is peaceful. He arrives at Geppetto's home where there are music boxes, toys, amazing clocks and a puppet who is just "all strings and joints." Geppetto is just painting on the finishing touches before he heads off to bed. The "cutest" black and white cat named Figaro adds warmth and amusement to the story. The sassy fish Cleo is a visual delight.
  
  As the woodcarver drifts off to sleep, he says: "Wouldn't it be nice if he was a real boy?" He then sends Figaro to open the window and sees a wishing star. He makes a wish and while he sleeps, the Blue Fairy brings the Marionette Pinocchio to life. He then must learn to have a conscience, so it is decided that Jiminy Cricket will be his guide so he will know what is good and what is evil.
  
  Pinocchio begins his journey to become a "real boy," but first he has to learn to be brave, loyal and honest. He is kidnapped after he joins a traveling show so he can become a famous actor, but escapes with the help of the Blue Fairy. She is the most beautiful animated fairy I have ever seen. Pinocchio then must learn to survive on his own. He takes a trip to Pleasure Island. This is a place where children go and they are allowed to play and never work, but the sinister truth is that they are all changed into donkeys and end up being shipped off to the salt mines. While he seems to keep making the wrong choices, once he realizes he will be turned into a donkey (his ears and tail already have grown), he goes back home. (Not unlike the prodigal son in a way, yet he is so young.)
  
  When he arrives home, he finds cobwebs and the house has been empty for some time. A note arrives that tells him where he can find his father, so he jumps into the ocean to find Monstro the whale, where his father, Geppetto is trapped. Once under the sea, things get a bit scary and the whale is quite evil, not unlike other creatures from the sea in Disney's movies. Will he find his father? I won't give the ending away.
  
  This is about the magical power of believing in your dreams and also will teach children to be moral and choose the good in life. I have to wonder if some politicians forgot to watch this movie as children. It teaches that lying is wrong and that a lie keeps growing and growing once it is told.
  
  There are messages that reading is good and education is something you should strive for. The illiterate Red Fox is hilarious as he tries to read the ABC book upside down! The fox tries to tell Pinocchio that education is not good for him. I also noticed that because Pinocchio could not read (because he didn't go to school!), he could not read the note about his father and therefore, Jiminy Cricket had to read it for him. See a similar scene in "Mulan" where the lucky cricket in that movie types out the letter like a typewritter, which is also a beautifully animated movie with snow scenes similar to the wave scenes in this classic. I could see many details in this animation which have carried over into other movies.
  
  There are many messages for adults in this movie....I doubt children will pick up on (Note the song that talks about "There are no strings on me!." This seems to be talking about our responsibility to others.)
  
  As an adult, you will find them amusing and thought provoking. I had to laugh when I heard the Cricket say: "What does an actor want with a conscience anyway." That hit the mark! I would like to see more actors develop a conscience.
  
  One of my favorite quotes by Jiminy Cricket is: "A cricket can't be too careful you know." It is laugh out loud funny when he says it.
  
  The first part of the movie is hilarious, the middle is a big adventure and the ending is a wonderful surprise for children. There are a few politically incorrect items, but they are almost tongue-in-cheek and you have to think about when this movie was made!
  
  If you have ever wished upon a star, or a falling star, this is for you! I agree, this is a masterpiece of animation....unlike anything you will find today. It is so detailed and moves at a pace where it is comfortable to watch. This is a thoughtful movie, unlike some of the more fast paced extravaganzas you see today.
  
  ~The Rebecca Review
  
  

• A disappointing DVD can't bring down this great movie

  
  By A2NYP1VC6FOFER on 2000-06-07
  First the movie: Wonderful musical that is something I'll always love. The story isn't very deep (do good things, and good things happen to you), but it comes off as fresh even 60 years after it was made. This is one of the better Disney movies, putting many of their movies from the 1990s to shame (such as Pocohantas and Hercules).

  The DVD: Image quality is the best I've seen it. At first viewing, it seems too washed out, but this is a movie from 1940, that is the way it originally looked. And yes, it is supposed to fill the screen. Just like the Wizard of Oz, it was not a widescreen movie. Audio wise, the soundtrack has been remixed to 4 channel audio. It sounds okay, but won't blow you away.

  Supplements on the DVD are very lacking. Specifically you get a trailer for the movie. The VHS edition got a documentary about the making of this film, but that wasn't included on the DVD. That is disappointing. Hopefully more extras could be discovered and a new edition released sometime in the next few years.

  Bottom Line: One of the best movies available on DVD, not one of the best DVDs available.
  
  

• Not a good video for younger viewers

  
  By on 2003-09-22
  While Pinocchio may be considered one of Disney's classics, some of the scenes/content in this older animation would not be shown or considered appropriate in today's children's movies. Gepetto is shown smoking in bed. Many of the characters smoke. Young boys are brought -- as a treat -- to a place where they can smoke, "drink" (something frothy like beer or root beer), and act very destructively as much as they want. The boys are tricked into thinking this is a fun place to go but are turned into donkeys and sold to work in mines -- never again to see their families. In the end, old Gepetto does get his wish. Pinocchio is a real boy. And old Gepetto gets to share his bed with the young boy. While all such scenes could be used for discussing appropriate behavior, I wouldn't recommend showing this movie to children. I made the mistake of showing this to my 4 and 2 yr olds. This is one those films I won't show over and over.
  
  

• Platinum edition due. Wait!!!

  
  By A3FBTJCCNQXW2U on 2005-05-07
  Pinocchio is planned to be re-released on a platinum/special edition (the time has not been announced yet).
  
  The first limited issue release of this DVD was weak. Disney then re-released Pinocchio on "Gold Collection", but many of the disk inside were still limited issue disk. The limited edition DVD contains no bonus features and has a modest transfer (The sound is excellent, but the picture is sometimes grainy and color is in need of restoration).
  
  Basically, Disney gave this film and viewers the shaft (on the first DVD release). It's now rumored that Pinnochio platinum won't appear till 2008, but I doubt we will see it till at least 2009. It's obvious that they are trying to avoid releasing it at all. I wish they would just put Pinnochio and Songs of the South on Disney treasures, and Leonard Maltin could apologize for them before we watch it. That would be better then possibly censoring it, as they have with other titles such as melody time.
  
  (NOTE: the little mermaid is scheduled for platinum in 2006). Dont miss Cinderella platinum in fall 2005
  
  *UPDATE*
  It's now rumored that Pinnochio platinum won't appear till 2008, but I doubt we will see it till at least 2009
  
  
• A classic second chance
  By ATDE9JYCPI0L1 on 2006-07-24
  We just happened to have a VHS copy of this tape when we adopted our son at age four from a foreign country. In his first weeks at home, he watched the story over and over, seemingly endlessly.
  
  This should have been no surprise, I suppose. When you think about it, Pinocchio is really an adoption story--the tale of an elderly man who has crafted a new life from his profound wish to have a child.
  
  Adopted children are not crafted, of course. They are a great gift from their birth families, who have sacrificed the child, usually (I think) because they know they cannot provide him or her with adequate care. And yet, the child does in fact become "real" when he or she accepts the adoptive family as his own, and accordingly finds a real place in the world.
  
  For our son, Pinocchio provided the perfect metaphor at the perfect time and place. Here was a boy who awoke one morning in a strange environment he did not recognize, who was unable to attach to those who loved him, or even to tell right from wrong, or why telling the truth is an essential trait for all. Here was a boy who had so little self-respect, he could feel "at home" anywhere.
  
  Pinocchio finds himself at Geppetto's home, replete with other puppets on strings, who unlike him, cannot move or speak, not to mention the music boxes, coo coo clocks, Figaro the cat and Cleo, in a fish bowl. Eventually, as most grown-ups know, Pinocchio learns the lessons of love and the importance of family, bringing all his wishes true.
  
  For all children, this is a wonderful tale. But for adoptive children, it is especially poignant, for Pinocchio got a second chance, as do all adoptive children.
  
  
• The finest animated feature ever made. Period.
  By A2FAMG3FICBKSW on 2005-09-14
  The one-two whammy of audience and critical indifference to "Pinocchio" and "Fantasia" killed Walt Disney's desire to experiment with the limits of animation in the 1940s. From then on, play it safe was his motto. This may be one of the greatest tragedies to beset popular American culture in the 20th century; despite the depths of pretension and kitch in "Fantasia," it was at least evidence of a spirited mind in pursuit of the unattained -- but "Pinocchio" must have broken old Walt's heart. There are visual effects in this movie that remained unchallenged until the digital age, and it's worth recalling that every single one of them was drawn by hand. It has one of the most beautiful and exciting musical scores in the history of the movies (I can't hear Cliff Edwards' high, pure falsetto holding that final note of "When You Wish Upon a Star" without chills), a deeply plangent sense of emotion that never tips over into bathos, and a wealth of detail that is still staggering after 65 years. But it may be too dark a movie to attain the popularity of more cheerful Disney cartoons like "Snow White" -- although even that one can frighten the tots. Now: where is the double-disc Special Platinum Edition???
  
  
• No Widescreen? Read the package
  By AKU6OIHK8S26I on 1999-12-08
  I am giving this DVD a 4 for just coming out. Disney DVD is the reason I am going DVD. (It was either that or Star Wars!)

  Anyway, for those of you complaining about the lack of "Widescreen" on this and other Disney DVDs, read the packaging. "Pinocchio is presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio, approximately 1:33:1." Peter Pan and 101 Dalmations also say this. It is not a "full screen/pan and scan!" What they saw in the movies then just happens to almost fill your TV screen now. Just enjoy!
  
  

• Disapointing to see a half-a@# job done on the DVD version.
  By on 1999-10-27
  I love Pinocchio. I was so excited to hear it was being released on DVD. Heck, I was happy just to hear any classic Disney animation was going to be finally released on DVD. However, what disappoints me is that this DVD seems to be thrown together without any extra effort put in it to make it special. The DVD version is not in widescreen (like the laserdisk versions are) and it is missing "the making of" that is found on the VHS version. Why are these things missing and why are we paying more for the DVD version without any of the extras practically found on all other DVDs?
  
  
• A lousy way to treat your "masterpiece" Disney!
  By A2TYAL88IXRSEV on 2000-08-11
  First of all, before any of you fine Amazon.com readers get the wrong idea about my mediocre 3 star rating, Pinocchio is and probably will always be the greatest animated film of all time. Calling Pinocchio a masterpiece is an understatement. I am writing this review on the basis of how fed up I am with the stupidity and greed that Disney has shown of late. Like so many of the 40+ reviewers have said, why was this classic thrown together with such little respect? The transfer to DVD does not improve upon the VHS version, in fact it actually looks downright fuzzy at times. And boy was I ticked off when the "making of Pinocchio" was not included on the DVD, but WAS on the VHS! What am I spending the extra dollars for? Like another reviewer said, Disney just wants the consumer to buy the next version with the extras included. They're no fools, they probably figure if they include the extras on the DVD now, no one will buy it again because DVDs don't wear out! It all comes down to the almighty dollar, right Disney? When Disney does include extras, like on A Bug's Life, they make you buy 2 DVDs! Has anyone at Disney noticed how many hours can be stored on a single DVD? Take Dreamworks for example, they produced a great film in the Prince of Egypt and loaded the DVD with a ton of extras. You don't mind paying a little extra for DVDs like the Prince of Egypt or The Iron Giant (another superb film). Wise up Disney, you won't be able to live on reputation for much longer if you continue trying to rip off the public. The competition is stiff, and darn good! I bet Walt must be turning over in his grave. I would love the folks at Disney to read this review.
  
  
• ONE OF THE ALL TIME GREATS NEEDS AN UPGRADED EDITION!
  By A1ER6IYOMM8VCT on 2007-03-13
  This is one of Disney's finest animated features! The fact that it has not had a complete restoration done is mind boggling! The print here looks like it is direct from VHS. It's washed out and to make matters worse, there are no extras! There is a 2 disc Platinum edition coming in 2009, but what's the hold up? Disney seeme to skip over this classic gem and make two & three releases of other titles!??
  
  I rate the film 5 stars, but this DVD edition gets 2 stars. Come on Disney get on the ball and give this film the treatment it deserves. 2 discs, complete restoration and extensive extra material.
  
  
• DVD a big cost for little return
  By AKDXXW89ZLCJS on 1999-12-04
  I love Pinocchio but it is not worth paying the extra cost for this DVD just because it is Disney. There are NO extra features except trailers. How disapointing that Disney feels they can charge 10 or more dollars extra just for the priviledge of owning this on DVD. It feels like they are punnishing us for not buying the video which has more extra features on it then the DVD! How sad. I would not buy either and complain to Disney about their sneaky tactics! I am a huge Disney fan and can say this!
  
  
• 5 Star Movie -- 3 Star DVD
  By A1D663YD036KNH on 2001-08-22
  A timeless classic which can be apreciated over and over again by people of all ages. "Pinocchio", Disney's second full-length animated feature, is one of the best ever. "Pinocchio" is the tale of a wooden puppet who comes to life only to be tempted by good and evil. The moral dilemnas which tempt young Pinocchio seem relevant even by today's standards. The characters -- Jiminy Cricket, Geppetto, the evil Honest John and of course, Pinocchio -- are amongst Disney's most memorable. The title song "When You Wish Upon a Star" is one of the all-time classics. Although "Pinocchio" is geared toward a younger audience, some children may be frightened by Monstro the Whale and/or the the terrifying Pleasure Island Sequence. The only downside to "Pinocchio" is the DVD presentation itself. While the film transfer is great -- crisp, clear, vibrant colors -- my main gripe is the lack of extras. Apparently, Disney will be loading up the extras for its upcoming "Snow White" release. I just wish they'd do the same for not only "Pinocchio", but all of their animated classics. For the high price that Disney asks, you'd think we'd get a little more. However, this is just a minor gripe and overall, I'm pleased to own this animated classic. Highly recommended to anyone and everyone!
  
  
• A Great Animated Classic
  By A2AOZQ3WTNVVOK on 2006-03-12
  This animated Disney movie is a timeless classic that contains all the elements of a great story. The characters are incredibly well animated and sympathetic. Pinocchio finds himself routinely, and often naively, getting into trouble even when he tries to keep out of trouble. This classic has action, excitement and cleverly hidden morals to delight all family members.
  
  Lonely woodcarver Geppetto (voiced by the late veteran actor Christian Rub) carves a wooden boy that he names Pinocchio. Geppetto longs for the family he never had, most particularly, a child. The Blue Fairy (voiced by Evelyn Venable, who has a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame) hears and feels Geppetto's longing, and gives the wooden boy life. The Blue Fairy also promises that Pinocchio will have an opportunity to become a real boy. The Blue Fairy also gives Pinocchio (voiced by Dickie Jones, who had an extensive film career as a child) a conscience in the form of Jiminy Cricket (voiced by Cliff Edwards, who voiced Jiminy Cricket nearly to his death in 1971, and who also appeared in "Gone with the Wind").
  
  Almost as soon as Pinocchio goes out into the world, ostensibly to go to school, he encounters mischief in the form of Honest John (voiced by the late veteran star Walter Catlett, who appeared in many movies such as "Friendly Persuasion," "The Inspector General," and "Yankee Doodle Dandy"). Honest John quickly sees opportunity in selling Pinocchio to a showman. Pinocchio gets out of trouble and then right back into trouble, ending up in Pleasure Island where boys make jackasses (another word for donkey) out of themselves. Fortunately Pinocchio escapes before completely changing into a donkey.
  
  However, Pinocchio's troubles are just beginning. When Pinocchio returns home he discovers that Geppetto has gone searching for him, and has yet to return. Learning the Monstro the Whale may have swallowed Geppetto, Pinocchio goes seeking Monstro, finding him. The encounter with Monstro, the rescue of Geppetto and the end of this movie forms one of the greatest endings of any animated movie.
  
  I was quite fascinated by the difference of opinions between reviewers regarding this movie. Most reviewers find Pinocchio to be a great classic tale of innocence and selflessness. However, a small minority of reviewers finds Pinocchio to be scary for young children, or they believe the acting and singing to be horrible.
  
  I watched Pinocchio as a very small child, and was absolutely in love with the movie. Had VCRs or DVDs existed back in the 1960s, I would have insisted that we have Pinocchio so I could watch it again (and again). We need to permit our children to understand fear so that they may conquer their fear. I am unafraid of whales, though sharks make me nervous. I saw "Jaws" as an adult. Which do you think had the greater effect on me?
  
  As for the singing, many people find that Cliff Edwards' singing sends chills down their back. I am similarly impressed. Few people are able to put the kind of emotion into a song the way Cliff Edwards did; certainly very few in this era of throwaway pop. The score and the song "When You Wish Upon a Star" received two Academy Awards and an ASCAP award.
  
  The acting in this movie was very good. Animated films tend to be a bit dramatic because they are often larger-than-life, and the acting well matched the animation in this movie. I consider the acting in this movie to be phenomenal when compared to the acting in other animated films.
  
  Walt Disney created an animation masterpiece with Pinocchio. This film came during a creative peak for Disney, along with the great, experimental and often misunderstood "Fantasia." This movie is a rarity among movies in that it is suitable for all normal family members. The youngest members of the family may benefit from adult attendance to explain certain aspects of the movie. This movie does contain a number of very wonderful and subtle morals that Walt Disney smoothly integrated with the story. Lovers of family films and animated films will absolutely need this one for their collection. Enjoy!
  
  This review is based on a copy of the DVD provided to me for review by Amazon and Disney Studios.
  
  
• Great film, Awful Disc
  By on 1999-11-14
  First off, let me say that Pinocchio is my favorite of all the Disney animated films. Which makes it all the more frustrating that it was treated so shabbily in this DVD release. While the video and audio quality are decent, they are not nearly as good as they should have been, given the state of the technology. And, frankly, the "supplements" are a joke. A picture on the disc is a feature? Get with it, Disney.
  
  
• A TERRIFIC TREAT FOR THE YOUNG*AT*HEART
  By A3BSS2M2DPPV4T on 2003-02-24
  Gepetto, a kindly old woodcarver, creates a little puppet boy of pine and names him Pinocchio. Because the old man, who has been generous and good all his life, loves children - but has none of his own - the Blue Fairy brings the marionette to life in order to be a son to him. She tells Pinocchio that in order to be a real boy, he must exhibit the virtues of truth, courage & selflessness...A timeless excursion into the world of classic childhood fantasy, this 194O Disney picture will no doubt be treasured in 2O4O: its theme is too timeless to date badly. The film cost the Disney studio 2.5 million dollars to produce & out of the total 2 million (!) drawings, a mere 3OO,OOO were ultimately used in the finished film. Dickie Jones, who was a child actor who infrequently appeared in OUR GANG comedies, lent his voice for the title character, while Evelyn Venable provided the Blue Fairy with vocal chords. Frankie Darro vocalised Lampwick & Cliff Edwards, as Jiminy Cricket, sang the AA winning song WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR. The original story was adapted from the 1882 novel by Carlo Collodi "La Avventure d'Pinocchio".
  
  
• One of Disney's best, but needlessly blown out of proportion
  By A4XR9RI8W4ZMK on 2004-11-15
  A well-done movie from Disney. A great kids movie, and the adults will find much to love here too. Jiminy Cricket really steals the show- just watch the scene where he comes into the pool hall where Pinocchio is smoking cigars and starts Jiminy yelling at him. I thought the scene was very funny. A good movie for the kids, slightly more mature than other Disney flicks, but something that the children will like.
  
  However, I don't understand why parents say they don't like showing this to infants and toddlers. Fact is, a two year old child will not understand what is going on very well, if at all. The transformation scene, the smoking, destruction, and the gun under Geppetto's pillow goes right over any young child's head. If a child tells you that the movie scares them, you simply put the DVD in a closet and leave it there- period. The movie was made about 2/3 of a century ago, when people didn't make such a big stink over EVERYTHING that happens in a children's movie. And please use your head- if you are thoroughly convinced that Pinocchio will scare your toddler out of his socks, then purchase him a copy of "Hoop De Doo! It's A Wiggly Party" or "The Care Bears Movie". Be warned, though- your child may not like these sugary sweet, super censored programs any more than you do.
  
  
• NO EXTRAS!!!
  By A1B7JV4MRJR1UI on 1999-10-29
  This is really the pits. Disney could easily put a few little "extras" on these DVD releases, like "the making of...", interviews, etc. But all we get is the bare movie. This sucks. How much more could it cost to add these extras? Virtually every other DVD released nowadays has added features. Shame on you, Disney.
  
  
• Disney's Masterpiece
  By A1Q4ZU2Y929N0A on 2002-04-25
  Walt Disney said that he considered "Snow White" to be his masterpiece. I hate to disagree with the master, but I think "Pinocchio" should have that honor.

  Carlos Collodi's story of the puppet that becomes a boy has =never= been translated to film better. Everyone knows the story - a lonely puppeteer named Gepetto make a wish to have a son. The Blue Fairy hears his wish, and decides to grant it in an unusual fashion - she brings his most recent creation to life, and gives the -puppet- a chance to prove himself in order to become a boy. Pinocchio has many misadventures while learning life's lessons, but finally appears to give his "life" when saving his father from the monster whale, Monstro. The Blue Fairy returns and says that the ultimate sacrifice has earned him the ultimate prize - he becomes a live boy!

  Honored by the Academy Awards for Best Song ("Wish Upon A Star") and Best Score, this movie deserves every award in the book. There has never been more object lessons taught so easily. Don't lie. Be brave. Stay on the path to your goal. And not preachy, either.

  And the THX restoration of the video and sound makes this a real viewing experience - just as clear and clean as it might have been in the theaters in 1940.

  The only disappointment I had is with the "extra" material on the DVD. Almost no extra material at all. It just includes the original theatrical trailer, and a French language track. Come on, Disney, give us more about Pinocchio! After seeing what was possible with the recent release of the "platinum" edition of "Snow White", I can only hope that they will eventually turn their energies towards this film as well.

  Highly recommended for families, espicially families with young children. The "Gold Edition" of the DVD is now officially on moratorium - maybe after that we'll see the version we want!
  
  

• Walt Disney's Masterpiece as told by this Great critic
  By AO6WEDCJKI483 on 2002-09-26
  "When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you

  are, anything you heart desires will come to you."

  You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?

  It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940.

  I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time.

  This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow.

  This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why.

  Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself.

  Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son.

  Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!!

  It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!!

  People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone.

  The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have.

  He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchio's conscience.

  Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong.

  This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy.

  Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-)

  Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!!

  Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently.

  It's a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone

  In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in children's hearts.

  Go out and buy this for youre children
  
  

• Walt Disney's Animated Masterpiece
  By A2TOU0N8XE68W4 on 2003-10-17
  Walt Disney in my belief never topped his stunning achievement in movie animation with "Pinocchio", the classic children's story based on the equally classic late 19th Century story by Carlo Collodi. Indeed this story is truly for children and adults alike with it's message of the universal value of honesty towards others and ones self, and the real worth to be obtained from personal integrity in all things. Released in 1940 after the stunning success of Disney's first excursion into animated feature films with "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", "Pinocchio", is the studio's supreme achievement that has enchanted and enthralled each new generation with it's simple message and delightful characters.

  "Pinocchio", tells the story of a kind and loving woodcarver named Geppetto who produces beautiful clocks, toys and music boxes out of all kinds of wood. He is loved and admired for his great skill however his one wish in life is to have a son as he has no children. Looking at his completed wooden puppet of a young boy he names him Pinocchio and goes to sleep praying that he might have a son just like Pinocchio. During the night the Blue Fairy appears in Geppetto's house and grants his fervent wish bringing the little wooden puppet to life. Her words to Pinnochio are "prove yourself to be brave, truthful and unselfish and someday you will be a real boy". To help him in this task the Blue fairy provides him with a "conscience" in the form of Jiminy Cricket who is to look out for him. Upon waking Geppetto is delighted to discover that his wish has been granted and that Pinocchio has come to life. His joy however is short lived when after sending Pinocchio off to begin his schooling the naive puppet is abducted by a sinister Fox called Honest John who takes Pinocchio to the travelling carnival of Stromboli a cruel and nasty man who imprisons Pinnochio and forces him to perform in his show. Alerted by Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio is rescued by the Blue Fairy after he learns a hard lesson about telling the truth when his nose grows larger with each successive lie. Heading home they run afoul of Honest John again who in another of his schemes is working with his client Coachman in getting boys to be sent to Pleasure Island in the belief that they are going on vacation but with the real intent of turning them into donkeys to work as slaves for Coachman in his mines. Once on the island everything seems wonderful as the amusement park offers everything they want for free and the boys are given a constant supply of drink and alcohol. Only later is the sinister purpose of the island discovered by Jiminy Cricket by which time it is too late as the boys have begun to turn into donkeys and are being loaded on a boat being sent to the mines. Before Pinocchio's transformation is complete Jiminy and Pinocchio escape and return home again only to find the heart broken Geppetto has gone looking for Pinocchio and has been swallowed by a famous whale called Monstro. Going under water to try and find him the pair encounter the deadly Monstro who also engulfs them and by a miracle they find Geppetto along with Figaro the cat and Cleo the goldfish safe and sound. Starting a fire inside the whale they manage to be blown outside and after a terrifying pursuit by a very angry Monstro manage to safely get to the shore. Once safely home the transformation promised by the Blue Fairy if Pinocchio displayed the qualities of bravery honesty and kindness to others, takes place and the wooden Pinocchio becomes a real boy of flesh and blood and the son Geppetto always wanted.

  "Pinocchio", is a timeless story graced with beautiful characters that all too often show their human side. I believe this very human element to the characters is what has endeared this film to generations of movie goers. Winner of the 1940 Academy Award for Best song with the unforgettable "When You Wish Upon A Star" which has become the Disney trade mark tune ever since, the production has so much to offer in every department. The quality of the animation is peerless here and the modern Disney efforts could not compare with it in overall quality and execution. The characters created from the original work by Carlo Collodi are just as memorable with Pinocchio the unforgettable little puppet who learns to become a real boy, being one of the best characters to come out of the Disney films. Voiced by child actor Dickie Jones, he gives Pinocchio just the right elements of boyish innocence and show biz panache to make him a delightful character. Jiminy Cricket also is without doubt one of the strengths in this story with his "conscience" job often leading to amusing and hair raising situations that even he often doesn't want to be a part of.

  Treasured as a great children's classic "Pinocchio", certainly has it's scary elements such as the boys turning into donkeys and the frightening battle with the whale at sea which might not be suitable for really young children. However apart from that adults can enjoy this story just as much as children with its age old moral lesson of doing good by others for your own good. I have loved "Pinocchio", since I was a child and along with "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", is the film that best represents the true brillance of Walt Disney's creativity. Promise yourself at least one viewing of this great classic as it will move you as no other animated feature can with its simple message and beautiful characters.
  
  

• Yet another Disney masterpiece!
  By A35GHITTG3WX7E on 2005-10-15
  Walt Disney's 1940 Pinocchio is the classic tale of misguided innocence in the dark and sinister world of greed and temptation. The tale of a little wooden puppet completely naive about the evil surrounding him, the most perfect start to a grand and spooky tale which begun in a beautiful starry night.
  
  The old, kind-hearted toy maker Gepetto had just finished his latest masterpiece, a wooden string puppet that showed off the most beautiful colors and grade, however, the toy maker feared that it was still missing something, a life. So, that night Gepetto made a wish upon a shining star, wishing for the life of his "Pinocchio." That same night, a beautiful blue fairy payed a visit to Gepetto's workshop and brought his wish to life.
  
  Having the wise Jimminy Cricket for a conscience, Pinocchio sets off in the real world in the task of leaving for school, unfortunately some wrong turns take him into the darker worlds of pure evil and greed. Bad influences are a strong match for Pinocchio and his faithful companion, but Pinocchio's rising spirit helps him overcome temptations and mis-guidances and bring him back to the warmth of his home and gain his heart's greatest desire.
  
  This outstanding film was the second full-length animated feature completed by Walt Disney and one of his finest masterpieces. I'd recommend renting the film for kids and grown-ups alike are sure to love it. When it comes to buying, I suggest waiting for the future Platinum release that should hit the shelves withing a few years.
  
  
• no extra features!
  By A1VKEVP3GO1G9R on 2000-04-17
  I would review the movie just the DVD! First of all there are no making of, storyboard,production notes or any extra features ! The only extra feature you get with this DVD is the trailer! Oh, did I mention that the DVD has beautiful picture on it! Rent it first ,then buy at Disney outragous price that they want for this DVD! Just watch later on Disney will reissue it (and the others in their collection with all the extras this DVD lack! If you want those extra features stick with the studios Disney owns! They are Miramax,Dimension,Hollywood Pictures,Touchstones Pictures,ABC network,Anchor Bay and Walt Disney Pictures! I hope this info helps others looking for disney movies other than the animated movies!
  
  
• The Magic of Disney Comes Alive
  By A3O9LMY2DTV2B2 on 2001-11-18
  The release of Disney's second full length animated film,
  "Pinocchio", in 1940, catipulted both the career of Walt Disney, the man, and Walt Disney, the Corperation. Only World War Two hampered a more world wide success of the film, which did exceeding well in America.

  "Pinocchio", which is narrated by Jiminy Cricket, making his first, but not last appearance, in a Disney film, tells the story of a lonely, old woodcarver, Geppetto, who longs for a son.
  After creating a wooden marionette in that of a boy, Geppetto wishes the figure could be brought to life.

  After Geppetto falls asleep, a blue fairy appears in the shop, and magically transforms Pinocchio the marionette, into Pinocchio the living wooden boy. He is not a real boy at this point, but he can think and act as one, and talk like one as well. The angel tells Pinocchio that for him to become a real little boy he must be brave, good, and to never tell a lie.

  Geppetto is awakened. Entering his shop he discovers Pinocchio is alive. The very next day Pinocchio is sent off to school. Along the way he meets a fox who persuades him to join a puppet show run by an evil man, Stromboli, much to Jiminy Cricket's disapproval. Pinocchio is awestruck with the idea and goes on stage for this man. He sings "I've Got No Strings", while dancing around to the wild enthusiasm of the audience.

  Stromboli, seeing how popular Pinocchio has become with the audience, becomes greedy, and kidnaps the wooden boy, locking him in a cage. As Jiminy is trying to free him, the angel appears before Pinocchio and asks what has happened. He invents a lie, and as he is telling it, his nose begins to grow. The angel explains that every time Pinocchio tells a lie, this is what is going to happen. After promising never to lie again, the angel restores his nose.

  But it is not long before Pinocchio is led astray yet again. This time, he joins several other boys who are making their way to Pleasure Island, a place where little boys can endulge in everything that is bad, until their hearts are content. Such bad habits as drinking and smoking are among the "pleasures" these boys indulge themselves in. It is truly an evil place, in more ways than one. Pinocchio, and other boys are magically turning into jackasses, growing ears and tails characteristic of the beast.

  Jiminy Cricket helps save Pinocchio from a fate worse than death, and they make it make to Geppetto's shop, only to be told by the blue angel that the man went to sea and was swallowed by a whale. She tells Pinocchio he is still alive, and he and Jiminy go in search of him. This bravery by Pinocchio is well acknowledged by the angel, and she decides to grant him a very special wish.

  In many ways, "Pinocchio" is a warning to children that bad things can happen to little boys, and girls, who stray from the path of morality. Indeed, bad things can happen, albeit nothing so dipicted here. "Pinochio" has been considered, by critics, to be Disney's most terrifying animated film of all. In fact, many of the scenes will frighten younger viewers. However, for the older children, "Pinocchio" can be a warm and inspiring message to always do good, for the sake of good itself.
  
  

• Walt Disneys Pinocchio
  By A2TI33D4JI70PV on 2003-08-13
  "When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you

  are, anything you heart desires will come to you."

  You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?

  It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940.

  I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time.

  This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow.

  This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why.

  Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself.

  Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son.

  Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!!

  It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!!

  People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone.

  The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have.

  He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchio's conscience.

  Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong.

  This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy.

  Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-)

  Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!!

  Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently.

  It's a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone

  In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in children's hearts.

  Go out and buy this for youre children
  
  

• Masterpiece Pinocchio by Luske Hamilton and Ben Sharpsteen
  By AIOXMENE1HBR7 on 2004-06-26
  "When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you

  are, anything you heart desires will come to you."

  You've heard this song on the Disneyland and Superbowl commercials, but do you remember where it came from?

  It came from this cartoon, Pinocchio, Walt Disney's second feature to "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in 1940.

  I repeat 1940!! Wow and to this day ,Pinocchio still stands out as one of the greatest movies of all time.

  This opinion is about the 60th anniversay VHS of Pinocchio with THX sound and Remastered visual footage. It even has a bonus at the end about the making of Pinocchio!!! Wow.

  This was a Christmas gift for my best friend and she loved it, and I can see why.

  Pinocchio is filled with dazzling animation,music and filled with so much fun and happyness that at the end of the movie , you will feel like wishing upon a star youreself.

  Pinocchio is about a wooden puppet made by toymaker Geppeto (Christian Rub) who wants his own son.

  Geppeto makes one wish, to have his own son. Geppeto gets his wish when the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life!!!

  It took nearly 700 animators and technicians to bring Pinocchio to life and the hard work definitely shows!!!

  People can say whatever they want about Disney current movies, true they lack a certain magic unlike their cherish cartoon like Pinocchio, but Disney is one of a few companies that has a SOLID record of making Cartoon Classics that are loved by everyone.

  The fairy brings Pinocchio to life and promises to Pinoccho (voice of Dickie Jones) that he will remain a real boy if he follows the basic principles that every boy should have.

  He has to be loyal, truthful and above fair. She assigns Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards) to be Pinocchio's conscience.

  Well it sounds easy at first, but living up to these values is the real challenge here and Pinocchio tries his best to follow them,but since he has just being turned into a boy he doesnt yet know right from wrong.

  This is where we meet characters like ,J. Worthington Foulfellow, Stromboli and Barker who take advantage of the young boy.

  Jiminy Cricket and the fairy save Pinocchio from his judgement calls ,but yet Pinocchio doesnt learn to tell the truth and when he lies his nose starts to grow like a Christmas tree. :-)

  Meanwhile Geppeto is looking for Pinocchio and ends up being captured by a giant whale Monstro!!!

  Pinocchio saves Geppeto in a brillian animation sequence and Pinocchio by displaying bravery ends up being a real boy permanently.

  It's a classic, I can say more but I dont want to spoil it for anyone

  In an age, where moral, brilliant, wholesome cartoons are scarce you look back to the classics and Pinocchio will forever stand out as one of the greatest classics ever made by Walt Disney who has left his print in the world and in children's hearts.

  Go out and buy this for youre children
  
  

• unhappy ending
  By A9GR4BZR6IU6W on 2006-10-13
  purchased the dvd and received it quickly - when trying to view the dvd I found it has no audio - I contacted the seller NO RESPONSE - I then went through Amazon and still NO RESPONSE. I am very disappointed and sad to say this has put a sour taste in my mouth. I can say I will never purchase anything from CHILLOUT ZONE again as it only takes but a minute to respond to an e-mail and they can not even to that....
  
  
• My Favorite Classic Disney from Years Past
  By A3VE5XJZ4MMWWH on 2007-02-21
  This movie is a beautifully-made masterpiece that, very unfortunately, seems to be overlooked sometimes because of other old Disney movies that were made around that time (like Snow White). However, of all the "old" Disney movies (made before the era of Eisner), this is the one that most hits the mark for me. Not only is it an interesting story with involving characters, but the overlooked soundtrack is also quite wonderful. "Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee" is an old favorite of mine, and not to mention "Little Wooden Head" is a catchy little tune. This is my favorite of the oldies-but-goodies because not only does it completely hit the mark, but it doesn't rely on the old cliche of "princess captured by evil stepmother and then saved later on by a nameless Prince Charming who has no personality whatsoever". Though some of those movies are good, like Snow White, some of them are dull like Cinderella, and this movie doesn't make you make that choice.
  
  Now I haven't always been a fan of this movie; this is more of a "grown-up" movie than many of the others that were made around that time. This is a darker tale than the likes of Snow White, and a more intense and involving one than movies like Cinderella. It also doesn't follow the oft-degraded Disney Formula, because there's no real cookie-cutter "bad guy". And since there's no real cookie-cutter bad guy, it makes it all the more interesting to see four or five villains make their entrances and exits, more like a real-life fairy tale than others. None of the villains "gets what he deserves", like in most Disney movies where they fall to their deaths.
  
  That isn't to say that the other Disney movies aren't good. That is, however, to say that this Disney movie was ahead of its time in its innovations in realistic story developments. Granted, the story itself isn't that realistic, but we all know the story, and can take it for granted. And I'm not saying that the film is COMPLETELY underrated either. Just about everybody's heard the song "When You Wish Upon A Star", and it truly is a wonderfully sweet tune.
  
  Speaking of which, Jiminy Cricket is a masterpiece of a character if there ever was one. And there are plenty of other great characters in this movie too: the old puppet master, Geppetto, who just wants a real boy; Cleo and Figaro, the domesticated fish and jealous cat; and of course many great villains, including Honest John, Stromboli, Lampwick, and of course Monstro, most of whom are also used for on-the-spot comic relief. But despite the comic relief, there are definitely some scenes that are too scary for the youngsters, including quite a few edgy scenes including the mad old puppeteer Stromboli. However, it's not ALL dark, which is good. There are some very fun, and some laugh-out-loud funny, scenes, both for the youngsters and for the adults.
  
  Overall, this truly is a great movie for anybody, but especially for those who have ever been through the struggle of being a real boy. :)
  
  
• Pinocchio- The animated masterpiece
  By A9SFEW3M33XJW on 1999-12-01
  Forget about The Lion King, Tarzan, Mulan, and all of the above, this is the finest piece of animated movie ever created on earth. Simply, superior, moving, heart-breaking, and emotionally sensational. The best movie ever by Disney, untouchable, and excellent in every way. If you are a critical viewer, Pinocchio is for you.
  
  
• Any real boy or girl will enjoy this; a true classic!
  By A6225HHQKBE2M on 2002-01-12
  The world was still marveling at the astonishing accomplishments the Disney stuido had made with 1937's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" when this second feature film, "Pinocchio" (and the third, "Fantasia"), came along in 1940. Quite like most of the other early classics and quite unlike some Disney efforts today, this one never grows old and will continue to endure forever.

  The enchanting story of a little wooden puppet who wanted to become a real boy is here told with what is still stunning anamation and real, emotion-filled characters that will warm your heart. This will not only provide an enjoyable 88 minutes of entertainment but also some wonderful lessons -- lies grow and grow (here, literally); bravery and love always will conquer; do right instead of wrong; bad things happen to you when you do bad things and make bad choices; and, most of all, as Jimminy Cricket says, "Always let your concience be your guide."

  The DVD itself only contains one bonus feature -- the original 1940 theatrical trailer -- and while many people are quite upset about this (and the fact that the VHS contains a new behind-the-scenes doccumentary whereas neither the rare OOP Limited Issue or current Gold Collection DVD has this), I myself think that the truly timeless animated classic that is the disc's centerpiece is reason enough to want to add this wonderful movie to your collection, regardless of the lack of DVD extras. But act quickly - the majestic Blue Fairy and her coworkers at Disney will work their magic once again on January 31, 2002 and discontinue any further printings of this timeless movie for approx. another ten years. So now is the time to make sure that you own all the magic and fun of this amazing animated feature for the next ten years -- and forever.
  
  

• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Disney Special Platinum Edition)
• Sleeping Beauty (Two-Disc Platinum Edition)
• Beauty and the Beast
• Dumbo (Big Top Edition)
• Bambi (2-Disc Special Platinum Edition)