Disney's animated movies have alternated between extraordinary masterpieces and pitiful failures. Lately, they have accomplished two magnificent feats, Aladdin and The Lion King, both providing superior graphics, animation, and enjoyment. Next came Pocahontas, which, by all means, was a failure, mainly because it lacked the certain aspects required to make a hit. Graphics, music, and screenplay are all essential in a Disney movie and Pocahontas didn't excel in any of these.

As for The Hunchback of Notre Dame, it varies. Far better than Pocahontas, but no where as good as Aladdin, The Hunchback of Notre Dame will be one of those movies lost in dozens of others and will not be the source of any sequels or television shows like what Aladdin or The Lion King accomplished. It's the theme of the story that was The Hunchback of Notre Dame's downfall.

First, though, there are the graphics. Sometimes in the movie, The Hunchback of Notre Dame has exceptional graphics, dazzling animations, and sensational artwork. Elsewhere, the art seems poor and sub par, compared to previous works such as Aladdin. The music and sound has the same problem. The theme song is extraordinary but some of the other songs are stupid and unlikable. There is no way that children will flock to the music store to buy the soundtrack.

Now, back to the story. Based on a previously-written work, there is nothing meager about the plot. Unfortunately, this is a Disney animated movie; there are some things that must be added which ruin the screenplay and some which are kept that are inappropriate for little kids. Quasimodo himself is nothing to get excited about; Esmerelda (Demi Moore) steals the scene. The talking gargoyles was really the only attempt Disney made to make The Hunchback of Notre Dame appear to be a kid's story, but parents know better. Esmerelda is tied to a post and Frollo plans to burn her alive, accusing her of witchcraft. Now, maybe this doesn't seem like a big deal to you but the theme is much darker than need be for a Disney film.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame is not a suitable movie for little children, deserving more than a "G" rating, but, from an older person's standpoint, it does have a vibrant touch to it that keeps the movie from being a complete waste.

Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.