PAGE 6 • August 2019
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Dumbo continued from pg 5 Medici (the perfectly cast Danny DeVito) filling in as makeshift parents. While Joe is eager and excited to be involved in the show, his sister has loftier expectations. She’d rather be a scientist, and spends her time reading and performing experiments. Looking to give his flailing circus a much-needed boost, Medici purchases a pregnant elephant name Jumbo. He foresees the baby being a main attraction, something that will set his show apart from all others. When the baby is born, however, he has gigantic ears and Medici views this deformity that will push audiences away, as opposed to bringing them in. Enraged, he tells Holt to find a way to take care of it, while he desperately tries procure a refund. Like in the original production, Dumbo’s debut goes horrifically wrong, leading Jumbo to rampage while trying to protect her child. As a result of her actions, she is caged and sent away, leaving poor Dumbo alone and heartbroken. Witnessing the devastation of the separation, and understanding the shattering emotions of losing a mother, the Holt children strike up a friendship with the pint-sized pachyderm, and in the process, uncover an incredible secret. Though the huge ears may have initially been viewed as blight, they are, in fact, a blessing. With these ears, Dumbo can do something not a single other elephant in the world can do; he can fly. Elements of the original Disney story are certainly recognizable in this initial setup for the film, but
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Here, a classic shot of Dumbo with the feather that makes him believe he can fly. from here, it differs mightily. Dumbo becomes a massive attraction, and garners the attention of greedy businessman V.A. Vandevere (a delightfully over-the-top Michael Keaton). Showering Medici and his crew with promises and compliments, he intends on pairing Dumbo with the high-flying Colette Marchant (Eva Green) in a show that will stand as the greatest show in the world. Burton’s film definitely earns points for originality, and while I loved the execution of THE LION KING and its faithful adaptation (which was a main point of criticism for some), it was also intriguing to see the story of DUMBO going in a different direction. As we’ve come to expect from the visionary filmmaker, Burton’s lavish set pieces and designs were beautiful to behold, and Dumbo was downright adorable. Without uttering a word, he emerges a soft-souled, kind, and enduring character that shines brightly 2018 2019 2012 2013 even when the film itself does not. Though Dumbo is the title character, and should indeed stand as the focal point of the production, the human element is featured much more prominently and there are many moments that should NEWLY CROWNED engage the audience far more than they BEEF ON A do. Whereas the 1941 production was a WECK BURGER snappy 64 minutes, the remake clocks in at nearly two hours. As a result, it is a production that feels forced and unnecessary at times, testing the patience and attention spans of viewers of all ages. This isn’t to say the film isn’t enjoyable, Voted Best Burger in because it certainly has moments that New York State by the exude sheer joy and elation, but as a whole, it proves that there can be too much of a good thing, and even Burton’s skill and Dumbo’s whimsy can’t always save the day. 238 Harrison St. • Syracuse, NY 13202 DUMBO- C+ 315-426-9672 • www.ALENANGUSPUB.com (Currently available on Blu-Ray)
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