On Wednesday 7 September 2022, we had the chance to attend the preview of the film Pinocchio, directed by Robert Zemeckis. It was an opportunity for us to rediscover this masterpiece on the big screen! When we left the theatre, we were both perplexed and seduced by the fairy tale universe. A few days after its release on Disney +, it is time for us to tell you what we thought of it.
Warning! If you have not yet seen the film, this review contains some spoilers!
The plot follows the chronology of the animation classic fairly closely, so that the same stages are found in order. It deviates only slightly from the animated movie. Let’s analyse these few differences.
Some points are certainly interesting but the film would have gained in depth if, instead of following the cartoon point by point, it had really detached itself and incorporated elements of the novel for example. The only nod to the book is the analysis of Pinocchio’s name (from pino: the pine tree, and occhio: the eyes) which is totally absent from the cartoon.Â
Plot : 3/5Â
Robert Zemeckis‘ direction offers some very nice shots and allows a successful immersion in the fairy tale’s universe. If we had to summarise, there are three atmospheres to remember.Â
The exhibition scene presents Gepetto’s workshop as a house full of magic. The warm light contrasting with the dark exterior, the various clocks on the walls, the toys and music boxes all contribute to making this place a reassuring home. Many references to the Disney universe are made through the cuckoo clocks, which makes them one of the film’s comical elements.   Â
The second atmosphere is that of the Italian village. When Pinocchio crosses it on his way to school, we have plenty of time to admire the scenery with stone houses, fountains, arches and climbing plants. If we can distinguish two or three extra characters, it is a pity not to have deepened this village life. Indeed, the latter appears more like a ghost village (or a village in the South-East during the siesta) than a meeting place.Â
Finally, the third memorable atmosphere is of course the Pleasure Island. This gigantic funfair, where everything appears disproportionate and disturbing, is very successful.Â
Atmosphere: 4/5
The film obviously features the main characters from the cartoon such as:
The film also introduces two new characters, Sofia, a seagull and Sabrina, a dancer and her wooden ballerina. However, they will have no impact on the narrative of the film.Â
Characters: 3/5
The animated movie songs appear almost as they were in the film. Well sung, some of the lyrics, such as La vie d’artiste, have a special resonance for today’s children in the age of youtubers and influencers.Â
There are new ones for Gepetto and Sabrina, among others. They were supposed to convey strong emotions, but did not have the desired impact.Â
As for the film’s soundtrack by Alan Silvestri, it goes unnoticed and unfortunately does not leave an unforgettable memory in the viewer’s ears…  Â
Songs and musics: 2/5
To conclude, Zemeckis’ Pinocchio is a faithful retranscription of the animated movie. Some points would have deserved to be deepened in order to give it more cachet and originality. Unfortunately, the good ideas, offering a different reading and interpretation, only scratch the surface before sinking into oblivion… Of course, we have a good time but it doesn’t bring anything more to the animated classic.Â
Global rating: 12/20Â
We like | We like less |
The magic inherent in the different atmospheres | New characters that add nothing to the plot |
The character of Pinocchio, more daring | The cheap special effects, especially on Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket |
The new songs |
See also our review of Buzz Lightyear!
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