FERN GULLY
A film review by Victor-charles Scafati
Copyright 1992 Victor-charles Scafati
What an animation renaissance we are experiencing! With *multiple* prime-time animated series on the networks, the revival of after-school animated programming, Ted Turner and his announced 24-hour cartoon cable channel, Bluth's ROCKET-DOODLE around the corner, and Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, arguably the all-around finest animated motion picture of all time, animation buffs are having the times of their lives. Now they can throw the soon-to-be-released FERN GULLY onto the pile of quality entertainment.
I've just returned from a pre-screening of FERN GULLY, and was astonished at the quality of this film. It is a superb blend of a good plot (which doesn't "drown" in its attempt to deliver a message), quality character animation, lovely backgrounds, and solid voice talent.
The character animation seems to draw on a variety of influences. The fairy characters are reminiscent of Ralph Bakshi's work, while the other animals are far closer to Don Bluth's style. At times the characters take on a bit of the "jobbed out overseas" look, but not to the point of fault.
The stunning backgrounds never become tiring to the eye, largely do to the magnificent job the color stylist did in choosing his hues. There is an apparent color *progression* throughout the film the leaves the viewer always aware of where the action is taking place, be it in the canopy of the rain forest, or in Fern Gully, or elsewhere. Seldom is this much care taken in the color *style* of a movie.
The voice talent cast does a perfect job. Tim Curry plays the evil antagonist, Robin Williams practically steals the show with his comic bat character, and Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong turn in predictably amusing performances. The other lesser-known performers rise to the occasion and round out the fine cast.
Sadly, the music leaves *much* to be desired, but I almost always say that (unless it's an Ashman-Menken score). The music is weak, and the songs are teeny-bopperish. I don't know *why* animated music generally has such a poor history (with exceptions, I know), but in my opinion FERN GULLY will be added to the list of entirely forgettable animated movie scores.
I should add that FERN GULLY is a "Politically Correct" theme movie, but the message is delivered with a degree of subtlety. Rather than being obnoxious, it's the sort of movie that parents will be glad to have their children watch and be influenced by. By all means, go see it!
FERN GULLY...THE LAST RAINFOREST
FAI Films in association with Youngheart Productions Music by Alan Silvestri Animation Production by Kroyer Films Inc. Directed by Bill Kroyer / Screenplay by Jim Cox Based on stories by Diana Young Released by 20th Century Fox -- Victor-charles Scafati scafati@mr.med.ge.com
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