While it sucks that the DVD itself isn't as great as it could have been, I disagree with the review about the movie, specifically Three Caballeros.
Saludos Amigos IS pretty boring and shallow at times, except for "Aquarela Do Brasil" which is fantastic in its presentation and easily the best short in the feature, but Three Caballeros is anything but forgettable.
I used to LOVE this film as a kid, but as an adult I greatly appreciate it for its fast paced presentation and maniac animation. Simply put, for a movie commissioned by the US Government in order to keep allies intact during the War the animation is impressive! The Mary Blair artwork gives it so much vibrant color I am stunned the UD review didn't point this out. The music is also very, very good. Its also one of the best "head" movies Disney has ever produced, with Alice in Wonderland and the Pink Elephants on Parade sequence in Dumbo coming very close. I just LOVE how manic and frantic the final moments of the movie are. Plus, as stereotyped as they are I LOVE Jose and Panchito. With Donald they make an awesome trio, and I am very happy to know that Disney has reunited them for the "River of time" attraction at Disney World.
The opening shorts (Pablo the Hot Blooded Penguin, the Aracuan, Bahia etc.) were also great. I love the Aracuan, especially his song. I want a ringtone of it!).
Finally, the subtext hidden underneath the humor is funny as all heck. This film celebrates Latin culture, but in the final minutes focuses greatly on the beauty of its women.
I look at it and say; "Wow, Disney and his writers were thinking ahead of their times". Think about it for a second, Donald goes insane at the women in Cancun and Acapulco. Fast Forward to present times. When Spring Break comes around, what do you see on MTV? Crazy, sex starved, alcohol injected teens and college people chasing women (and men) around in Mexico.
Notice the similarities? Again, Disney knew what would happen a few years after the film was released
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But stopping my ramble for a bit, to me the film should NOT be viewed as part of the majestic canon of Disney films. It is not meant to tell a captivating story, present us with incredible animation or heart stopping music. Its basically a pop corn film where you turn your brain off and just enjoy the ride.
If you look at Caballeros that way, you'll have a blast, hence why its so beloved in the animation community.
"Has estado en Bahia, Donald?"
"BUENO PUES VAMOS!!!"
Oh yeah, Saludos Amigos has a character named Pedro from Chile. Since my name is Pedro the film gets kudos for naming him that
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Trivia: An artist from Chile felt very offended by the Pedro short, believing that Disney was stereotyping the country by using a small, somewhat coward plane. He was so upset that he created a character named "Condorito" in response to the short. Years later, the character has become one of the most popular comic book characters in Chilean history.
So the DVD comes out tomorrow. Any specific in-store bonuses planned for this one or not? Will Wal-mart have any bonus with it?
I'll be picking up my copy tomorrow as I do not yet own either title.