The Aristocats (1970) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“The Aristocats,” directed by Wolfgang Reitherman and released by Disney in 1970, is an animated classic that has charmed audiences with its delightful characters, jazzy soundtrack, and whimsical story. The film is known for its heartwarming tale of feline adventure and its charming depiction of Parisian life.
Plot Overview
The film follows Duchess (voiced by Eva Gabor) and her three kittens, Thomas O’Malley (voiced by Phil Harris), Berlioz, Toulouse, and Marie, who live a luxurious life in Paris with their owner, Madame Adelaide Bonfamille. When Madame Adelaide decides to leave her fortune to her beloved cats, her greedy butler, Edgar (voiced by Roddy Maude-Roxby), becomes determined to get rid of them so he can inherit the money himself.
Edgar abandons the cats in the countryside, but they are rescued by Thomas O’Malley, a street-smart alley cat with a heart of gold. Thomas and the kittens embark on a journey back to Paris, encountering a colorful array of characters along the way. They receive help from various animals and ultimately confront Edgar to reclaim their home and fortune.
Performances and Characters
- Eva Gabor as Duchess: Gabor voices Duchess, the elegant and refined mother cat. Her performance adds grace and warmth to the character, making Duchess both endearing and relatable.
- Phil Harris as Thomas O’Malley: Harris voices Thomas O’Malley, a charismatic and carefree alley cat. His performance brings a sense of fun and adventure to the film, with Harris’s voice adding a distinctive charm to the character.
- Roddy Maude-Roxby as Edgar: Maude-Roxby voices the villainous Edgar, who schemes to eliminate the cats. His portrayal captures the character’s cunning and greed, providing a classic Disney antagonist.
- Paul Winchell, Sterling Holloway, and Scatman Crothers: They voice various supporting characters, including the jazzy cats and the country animals who assist Thomas and the kittens. Their performances add humor and variety to the film.
Direction and Animation
Wolfgang Reitherman’s direction of The Aristocats is characterized by its lively and engaging animation style. The film’s animation, produced during Disney’s “Gold Era,” features vibrant colors, fluid movements, and a charming portrayal of Parisian scenery.
The film’s animation also includes memorable musical sequences, such as “Everybody Wants to Be a Cat,” which showcases the jazzy influence and adds to the film’s playful atmosphere.
Themes and Emotional Impact
The Aristocats explores themes of family, friendship, and adventure. The film emphasizes the importance of loyalty and kindness, as well as the value of finding home and belonging.
The emotional impact of the film is heightened by its endearing characters and heartwarming story. The film’s light-hearted humor and positive messages make it appealing to audiences of all ages.
Music and Score
The film’s score, composed by George Bruns, complements the narrative with a blend of jazzy and classical music. The standout song, “Everybody Wants to Be a Cat,” is a lively and memorable number that captures the film’s fun and whimsical spirit.
Where to Watch “The Aristocats” Online
For those interested in watching The Aristocats, there are several streaming and rental options available:
- Disney+: The film is available for streaming on Disney+, which offers access to the full Disney library, including classic animated films.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for purchase or rental through Amazon Prime Video, providing a high-quality viewing option.
- Apple iTunes: The Aristocats can be purchased or rented in HD on iTunes, accessible on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: The film may be available for purchase or rental through Google Play Movies, making it accessible on various devices.
- Vudu: The film is available for digital rental or purchase on Vudu, ensuring a clear and crisp viewing experience.
Conclusion
The Aristocats is a timeless Disney classic that continues to enchant audiences with its charming story, lovable characters, and jazzy soundtrack. With strong performances, delightful animation, and heartwarming themes, the film offers a joyful and entertaining experience.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney animation, enjoy heartwarming tales of adventure, or simply want to revisit a beloved film from your childhood, The Aristocats provides a memorable and enjoyable viewing experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to explore this beloved animated classic.
