Fun and Fancy Free (1947) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Released in 1947, Fun and Fancy Free is one of Disney’s lesser-known animated features, yet it remains an essential piece in the studio’s history. This film is part of Disney’s “package film” era, which came about during and after World War II, when financial constraints and a lack of resources pushed the studio to combine shorter films into feature-length releases. Fun and Fancy Free brings together two distinct stories—Bongo and Mickey and the Beanstalk—interwoven with lighthearted narration and musical interludes. Despite its structure, the movie still delivers classic Disney charm through vibrant animation, memorable characters, and a playful tone.
In this review, we’ll explore the stories, animation, music, performances, and where you can stream Fun and Fancy Free online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: Two Stories in One
1. Bongo
The first story, Bongo, is adapted from the story “Little Bear Bongo” by Sinclair Lewis. It tells the tale of a circus bear named Bongo who yearns for freedom and the chance to live in the wild. After escaping from his life in captivity, he encounters the challenges of life in the wilderness but eventually finds love with a female bear named Lulubelle. However, Bongo’s romantic pursuit is complicated by a rival bear, Lumpjaw, leading to a classic showdown for Lulubelle’s affection.
Narrated by Dinah Shore, Bongo is a sweet and whimsical tale, showcasing Disney’s early animation style with a focus on animals, nature, and a loveable protagonist. While it doesn’t have the same cultural impact as other Disney shorts, it remains a charming and enjoyable story, especially for younger audiences.
2. Mickey and the Beanstalk
The second segment, Mickey and the Beanstalk, is a Disney adaptation of the classic “Jack and the Beanstalk” fairy tale, starring three of Disney’s most beloved characters: Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. In this version, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy are poor and hungry, living in a cottage in the valley of Happy Valley, which has been devastated by the theft of a magical singing harp. Mickey trades their last cow for magic beans, which, of course, grow into a giant beanstalk leading to the sky, where they encounter Willie the Giant, who has stolen the harp.
Mickey and the Beanstalk is narrated by ventriloquist Edgar Bergen, accompanied by his dummies, Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd. This segment is filled with the signature humor and slapstick that made Mickey, Donald, and Goofy such iconic figures in animation. The dynamic between the trio is at its peak here, and the animation, while simple compared to modern standards, is filled with energy, color, and fun.
Animation: A Classic Disney Look
The animation style in Fun and Fancy Free reflects the transitional period of Disney in the 1940s. Both Bongo and Mickey and the Beanstalk showcase the studio’s traditional hand-drawn animation style, which had become a hallmark of Disney’s films. The colors are vibrant, the character designs are charming, and the animation flows smoothly, although it’s simpler compared to later Disney masterpieces like Cinderella (1950) or Sleeping Beauty (1959).
Mickey and the Beanstalk, in particular, stands out for its inventive use of scale, as the animators creatively depict the contrast between the small characters of Mickey, Donald, and Goofy, and the enormous world of Willie the Giant.
Music: Memorable Tunes and Classic Disney Songs
The music in Fun and Fancy Free is a key element of the film’s charm. In Bongo, Dinah Shore’s narration is paired with lively musical numbers that complement the whimsical tone of the story. The songs, while not as iconic as Disney’s more famous tracks, are catchy and fun.
In Mickey and the Beanstalk, the music plays a central role, particularly with the magical harp’s song, which brings peace and prosperity to Happy Valley. The harp’s song, while brief, has a dreamy and ethereal quality that enhances the magical atmosphere of the story. The rest of the score is upbeat and fits the comedic and adventurous tone of Mickey’s beanstalk adventure.
Voice Cast and Performances: Iconic Disney Characters
The voice acting in Fun and Fancy Free is classic Disney, with legendary performers bringing the characters to life.
- Mickey Mouse is voiced by Walt Disney himself, who continued to lend his voice to the character until the late 1940s.
- Donald Duck is voiced by Clarence Nash, who was the original voice actor for the character, bringing his distinctive and iconic speech patterns.
- Goofy is voiced by Pinto Colvig, the long-time voice behind the lovable and clumsy dog.
Each of these performances brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminding viewers why these characters became such enduring icons in the world of animation.
Critical Reception: A Forgotten Gem
While Fun and Fancy Free is not as widely remembered as other Disney classics, it holds a special place in the studio’s history. Critics at the time appreciated the film’s charm and humor, but it was clear that it didn’t have the same groundbreaking impact as films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) or Pinocchio (1940).
Today, Fun and Fancy Free is often viewed as a nostalgic favorite for Disney fans, particularly for its role in keeping Mickey Mouse and his friends in the public eye during a challenging period for the studio. The film is also notable for being one of the last appearances of Walt Disney as the voice of Mickey.
Where to Watch Fun and Fancy Free (1947) Online: Streaming and Rental Options
As of 2024, Fun and Fancy Free is available for streaming on several platforms in the U.S. Here are the best options:
1. Disney+
Fun and Fancy Free is available to stream on Disney+, making it easily accessible to subscribers. Disney+ is home to most of the studio’s classic animated features, including those from the package film era. You can stream it in HD on any compatible device, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles.
2. Amazon Prime Video
The film is available for digital rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting Fun and Fancy Free typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing it costs around $9.99.
3. Apple TV
Fun and Fancy Free can be rented or purchased through Apple TV, available in SD and HD formats. Similar to Amazon, the rental price is around $3.99, with the purchase price being approximately $9.99.
4. Google Play Movies & YouTube
You can also rent or purchase the movie on Google Play Movies and YouTube. This option allows you to stream it on any device with access to these platforms.
Is Fun and Fancy Free Available on Netflix or Hulu?
As of September 2024, Fun and Fancy Free is not available on Netflix or Hulu. It remains available primarily through Disney+ and other transactional video-on-demand (TVOD) platforms like Amazon and Google Play.
Final Thoughts: Is Fun and Fancy Free Worth Watching?
For fans of classic Disney animation and those interested in the history of the studio, Fun and Fancy Free is a delightful film that captures the charm of the 1940s era. While it may not be as groundbreaking or iconic as some of Disney’s more famous films, its combination of Bongo and Mickey and the Beanstalk offers a nostalgic and enjoyable viewing experience.
Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy’s adventure up the beanstalk remains a highlight, and for those who love vintage Disney, the film is a must-watch. With the convenience of streaming on Disney+ and other digital platforms, it’s easier than ever to revisit this forgotten gem. If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted and whimsical Disney feature, Fun and Fancy Free is a great choice for family movie night or a personal dive into Disney’s animation history.
