Directed by: Brian Pimental
Starring, Alexander Gould, Patrick Stewart, Brendon Baerg, Nicky Jones, Andrea Bowen, Anthony Ghannam & Cree Summer
Distributed by: Buena Vista
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 72 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Do not even try to compare “Bambi II” to “Bambi”, it is just not possible. This film is considered a midquel since it takes place in between in the middle of the original. Disney went through a phase a while ago when it would produce these midquel follow-ups to its classic films. Some of the films that were explored were “Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas”, “The Lion King 1½”, “Tarzan II”. and “The Fox and the Hound 2”. They are all sub-par for Disney and do not rank even close to their original films. “Bambi II” is a cute kids film that will introduce a new audience to “Bambi” who maybe weren’t aware of the original. Even though it enjoyable let’s just say I am happy that Disney cut it out making these direct to video films.
The film begins after Bambi’s mother is killed by hunters and he has to follow in the footsteps of his father, the Great Prince of the Forest. This story features Bambi’s best friends Thumper, Flower and Faline. Bambi has to prove to his father that he can become the leader of the forest. In the quest to find and rescue his dad, he has to lead and also protect his friends. It includes some life-learning for kids and overall they will enjoy it. This Blu-ray release includes a beautiful colorful video which really shines and also includes an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio track. This worth the purchase alone if you are a fan of Disney animation films
The extras on this are ok but not spectacular, especially not for Disney. The first feature is called “The Legacy Continues” it runs less than 10 minutes and features the cast and crew discussing the original film’s legacy, the development of the story and characters and the film’s production. There is a deleted song called “Sing the Day”. There are four interactive games and activities including “Friend Owl’s Forest Fun”, new to Blu-ray and “Thumper’s Hurry and Scurry”, which was included on the DVD. There is a feature called “Disney Sketch Pad”, which showcases animator Andreas Deja giving tips about getting started in animation. Lastly there is a pop-up trivia track, called “Bambi’s Trivia Tracks” aimed for kids.