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DVD Review

Pinocchio is far from a groundbreaking new release.  Originally released to film in 1940, it was certainly a challenge to restore this film to it's current digital master.  The animations transferred well to this DVD -- credit to both the mastering artists and the use of relatively high bit-rates to ensure minimal loss of detail.  Colors are surprisingly vibrant and I'm sure they have been touch up and enhanced a bit, but look much as they probably should have in the original film.  

Despite a THX-certified transfer, there is only so much you can do with a 1940's animation and film speck are plenty as are some other inevitable distortions.  All things considered, however, the transfer to DVD is quite good and it is very likely this is the best the film has ever looked (this was only Disney's second full-length animated film)!  High scores for clarity and sharpness are given compared to other versions of the film I have seen -- this isn't going to compare with the sharpness of most 1999 films.

The sound is quite clear but nearly all of the sound comes from the center channel -- not surprising since this film was originally mono.  

Features are lacking, as we will probably come to expect from Disney releases (pay twice as much, get half as much -- and you'll love it!).  While short on features, great detail has been paid to the appearance of the menus, which while they don't DO anything special, they do look very pretty thanks to some very nice "wooden" icons and backgrounds which tie the look together.  This is a great DVD for families, as kids will doubtless watch the movie over an over.  As a DVD, however, it is average at best.

Movie Review

Oh, come on, if you don't know the story of Pinocchio, you need to get to the video store and rent (or buy) it, ASAP!  It's a classic (like most Disney movies) and is a must watch for one and all!  

The very short version is that Pinocchio is a wooden marionette who is brought to life by a fair at the wish of its creator, Geppetto.  In order for Pinocchio to become a "real boy" he must be steadfast and honest, etc.  -- a task that proves difficult, despite the help of his conscience, represented  by the loveable Jiminy Cricket.

It's a good story, with good morals.  It is a bit slow by today's standards, and adults may be a bit bored, but most kids will probably like it -- watch it with them -- it'll be good for ya!