The Rescuers Down Under (1990) - 3/5

This fun family adventure follow-up to its dour masterpiece predecessor leaves something to be desired. It’s a great romp and if taken on its own merits is a pretty solid Disney fare, but when compared to its earlier installment has as much depth as a kiddie pool. There are several creative plot turns that keep it interesting for more seasoned viewers and some great cinematography to keep the whole family entertained. It throws in several ‘funny’ scenes apparently for younger viewers that stumble the pacing and introduce a mean humor that runs at odds to the emotional core of the story.

Closest comparison: It’s like The Rescuers by way of Treasure Planet.

Setting: Adventure
Plot: Rescue
Tone: Family

The Rescuers (1977) - 5/5

This is an understated contemplation on the nature of faith in the face of hopelessness. It boasts an unrelentingly bleak atmosphere that it douses with equally unrelenting heart. In true Don Bluth fashion the silliness is limited to a flavor of villain caricature and avoids affecting the plot. Instead, it allows the story themes to play out with a lot of depth without becoming too intense for more sensitive viewers. It’s masterfully executed and achieves its conservatively ambitious goal with real staying power for those not driven off by the family-friendly aesthetic.

Closest comparison: It’s like The Pursuit of Happyness by way of The Great Mouse Detective.

Setting: Crime
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Film Noir