Bambi
1942  NR  ANIMATED  1h 10min
CAST— Bobby Stewart, Donnie Dunagan, Hardie Albright, John Sutherland, Paula Winslowe, Peter Behn, Tim Davis, Sam Edwards, Will Wright, Cammie King, Ann Gillis, Fred Shields, Stan Alexander, Sterling Holloway
MUSIC— Frank Churchill, Edward H. Plumb  DIRECTOR— David Hand  BASED ON— Bambi, A Life in the Woods (novel), by Felix Salten

     A simple, leisurely pace offset with breathtaking animation make this a true Disney classic. One spring morning a fawn is born. Mother names him Bambi and all the furred and feathered denizens of the forest bid him welcome. So begins a life full of joy and exploration; but unfortunately Bambi also faces life’s hardships, often at the hands of man. A change of seasons brings new adventures to Bambi and co. and, what’s that? Could that be love in the air? Innocence and grace feature prominently and the story (or lack thereof) is a relaxing treat. But (as stated) the animation is a stunning triumph. From the patter of rain to a harrowing (though visually arresting) forest fire this film is sure to please even the harshest of critics. Deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” by the United States Library of Congress National Film Registry.
OUR RATING— ***
FOLLOWED BY— Bambi II (midquel, 2006)