Fantasia/2000
Leave it to Disney to dazzle, delight and dare to dream up a magical reprise to its original animated concert concept, "Fantasia". With "Fantasia 2000", a new generation of moviegoers can experience the brilliant, beautiful blend of Disney 'toons and classical tunes as they share the screen in an electrifying exhibit of sight and sound.
Walt Disney's revolutionary vision is revived and revisited in seven short animated sequences set to the mesmerizing music of classic composers. Fans of "Fantasia" will recognize a first-film favorite, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice", which stars Mickey Mouse in a battle with brooms that becomes a bewitching ballet. A collection of celebrities, including Bette Midler, Steve Martin and Penn & Teller, introduce each stunning sequence and set the stage for the eye-popping, heart-stopping magic that sparkles on the screen.
"Fantasia 2000" is artistic and amusing enough to appeal to an audience of all ages. The classical compositions combine with creative cartoons to display dramatically different themes. Beethoven's Fifth Symphony astonishes with abstract animation while "Rhapsody in Blue" is a sleek, stylish show that captures Al Hirschfeld's compelling caricatures. There's a world of whimsy with a flock of flamingoes in "Carnival of the Animals," a whale of a tale in "the Pines of Rome," and Donald Duck alongside an ark of animals in "Pomp and Circumstance." Rounding out the roster are the more magnificent fairytale fables that spring to life in the forest with "Firebird Suite" and in the heart with Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No. 2.
"Fantasia 2000" is a dramatic display of intensity and imagination that scintillates all of the senses. Far from another kiddie cartoon, the amazing animation is elevated to a higher level by the spellbinding sounds of the classics. The vibrant visual effects create irresistible images that dance, prance and romance their way into the imagination. "Fantasia 2000" captures the magical message of Disney and puts "A Small World" on the big screen.
Simply put, Disney does it again.