First things off, I absolutely loved the book when I was a kid, but haven't read it for a long time. But I have always loved this film, and at 17 years old I still think it is an absolutely delightful Disney film and perfect for the whole family. Is it the best Disney film ever? Personally, I think not, then again I love Disney so much I cannot choose though I will say Beauty and the Beast especially has been the one that has always captivated me.
Swiss Family Robinson is nothing short of excellent. It has wonder, adventure and suspense, with all these elements all of which are crucial for a family film what more can you ask for. The direction from Ken Annakin is rock solid, and the music from William Alwyn is especially stirring. The cinematography is lush, the sets are imaginative and striking and the costumes are lavish. While perhaps slow to begin with, the film has lots of action, pirates and wild animals. The story while not especially faithful to the book, is compelling holds a certain nostalgic value and the screenplay is fun enough.
The acting is very good. John Mills was a fine actor, and he is excellent as Father Robinson, and Dorothy McGuire in perfect makeup is even better as Mother Robinson. Appealing performances from James McArthur, Tommy Kirk and Kevin Cocoran help too and Sessue Hayakawa makes an imposing and menacing Pirate Chief, in fact while very attractive Janet Munro is the only one who doesn't quite convince as Roberta, but everything else is so good I am willing to overlook. Other than that, this film is delightful, and teaches some nice family values including bravery, loyalty, honour, creativity and resourcefulness. 10/10 Bethany Cox
Swiss Family Robinson is nothing short of excellent. It has wonder, adventure and suspense, with all these elements all of which are crucial for a family film what more can you ask for. The direction from Ken Annakin is rock solid, and the music from William Alwyn is especially stirring. The cinematography is lush, the sets are imaginative and striking and the costumes are lavish. While perhaps slow to begin with, the film has lots of action, pirates and wild animals. The story while not especially faithful to the book, is compelling holds a certain nostalgic value and the screenplay is fun enough.
The acting is very good. John Mills was a fine actor, and he is excellent as Father Robinson, and Dorothy McGuire in perfect makeup is even better as Mother Robinson. Appealing performances from James McArthur, Tommy Kirk and Kevin Cocoran help too and Sessue Hayakawa makes an imposing and menacing Pirate Chief, in fact while very attractive Janet Munro is the only one who doesn't quite convince as Roberta, but everything else is so good I am willing to overlook. Other than that, this film is delightful, and teaches some nice family values including bravery, loyalty, honour, creativity and resourcefulness. 10/10 Bethany Cox