I agree with the criticism against this Disney classic: the plot line is not that original, the drawings are unpolished and some animations are recycled (all features of the era), the side characters are mostly filler that do not advance the story.
Then why is that I still remember most of these pointless and weak scenes from my childhood and I've slept on other Disney classics much more revered by critics? Charm. This is an asset that overflows in every scene of the Aristocats, where funny characters entertain the viewers (especially the younger) also thanks to some catchy songs, that throughout the movie evolve from a classical style to the signature jazzy groove.
As much as it's flawed, the Aristocats never ceases to amaze me. You just might not appreciate it fully if you only approach it rationally as a grownup.
Then why is that I still remember most of these pointless and weak scenes from my childhood and I've slept on other Disney classics much more revered by critics? Charm. This is an asset that overflows in every scene of the Aristocats, where funny characters entertain the viewers (especially the younger) also thanks to some catchy songs, that throughout the movie evolve from a classical style to the signature jazzy groove.
As much as it's flawed, the Aristocats never ceases to amaze me. You just might not appreciate it fully if you only approach it rationally as a grownup.