Dumbo (2019) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Dumbo (2019), directed by Tim Burton, is a live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved 1941 animated classic. The film reimagines the story of the charming elephant with oversized ears who learns to fly, blending Burton’s signature whimsical and dark elements with a heartwarming tale of family and acceptance. Featuring a cast that includes Colin Farrell, Eva Green, and Danny DeVito, Dumbo offers a fresh take on the iconic story while paying homage to its roots. In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s key elements and provide information on where to watch it online.
Plot Overview and Themes
In Dumbo (2019), the story begins with Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell), a former circus star who returns home from World War I to find that his family’s circus, the Medici Brothers Circus, is struggling. The circus owner, Max Medici (Danny DeVito), acquires a new elephant with a baby that has unusually large ears. The elephant, named Dumbo, is initially ridiculed for his appearance, but soon it is discovered that he can fly.
The plot follows Dumbo’s rise to fame as he becomes the star of a new circus attraction, while Holt, his children, and trapeze artist Colette Marchant (Eva Green) work to protect him from those who seek to exploit his abilities. The film explores themes of acceptance, family, and the magic of believing in oneself.
The narrative highlights the bond between Dumbo and the human characters who care for him, contrasting with the darker elements of exploitation and greed represented by the antagonist, V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton).
Cinematic Style and Direction
Tim Burton’s direction in Dumbo is characterized by its blend of whimsical fantasy and darker undertones. Burton brings his unique visual style to the film, combining vibrant and imaginative elements with a sense of melancholy.
The cinematography by Ben Davis captures the magical and visually stunning aspects of the circus environment. The film’s use of color, lighting, and special effects creates a visually engaging experience, enhancing the fantastical elements of Dumbo’s story.
The pacing of the film allows for a balance between character development and the spectacle of Dumbo’s flying abilities. Burton’s direction ensures that the film maintains a sense of wonder and emotion, while also addressing more serious themes.
Performances
- Colin Farrell stars as Holt Farrier, delivering a heartfelt and grounded performance. Farrell’s portrayal captures the character’s love for his family and his compassion for Dumbo, adding emotional depth to the story.
- Eva Green plays Colette Marchant, the talented trapeze artist, with a graceful and engaging performance. Green’s role highlights the film’s themes of self-discovery and the importance of following one’s dreams.
- Danny DeVito appears as Max Medici, the circus owner, providing a lively and charismatic performance that adds humor and warmth to the film.
- Michael Keaton plays V.A. Vandevere, the film’s antagonist, with a performance that adds a touch of menace and greed. Keaton’s portrayal contrasts with the more heartfelt elements of the story.
The supporting cast includes performances from actors such as Alan Arkin and Lorenza Izzo, who contribute to the film’s rich and engaging narrative.
Critical Reception
Dumbo (2019) received mixed to positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its visual effects and Tim Burton’s imaginative direction. The performances, particularly those of Colin Farrell and Eva Green, were also well-received.
Critics appreciated the film’s attempt to modernize and expand upon the original story, with its blend of fantasy and emotional depth. However, some reviewers felt that the film’s pacing was uneven and that certain aspects of the plot were underdeveloped.
Overall, Dumbo is seen as a visually captivating and heartfelt adaptation that successfully brings Burton’s unique style to the classic tale.
Where to Watch Dumbo (2019) Online
If you’re interested in watching Dumbo online, here are some options available:
Streaming Services
- Disney+: As a Disney production, Dumbo is available for streaming on Disney+. Check the platform for current availability.
Rental and Purchase
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent or purchase Dumbo on Google Play Movies & TV. Renting provides temporary access, while purchasing offers permanent access to the digital copy.
- Apple TV: The film is available for rental or purchase through the Apple TV app for Apple device users.
- Vudu: Vudu offers options to rent or buy Dumbo. The service provides high-definition streaming and various formats for purchase.
- YouTube Movies: You can also rent or purchase Dumbo on YouTube Movies, providing another platform to access the film.
Conclusion
Dumbo (2019) is a visually enchanting and heartfelt live-action adaptation directed by Tim Burton. With strong performances from Colin Farrell, Eva Green, and Danny DeVito, the film offers a modern take on the beloved classic while staying true to its core themes. Available for streaming on Disney+ and for rental or purchase on various platforms, it’s easy to access and enjoy this magical film.
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