Animal Farm-1954
Director Joy Batchelor, John Halas
Voices Gordon Heath, Maurice Denhall
Scott’s Review #45
Reviewed June 18, 2014
Grade: B+
The animated film is based on the classic fable written by George Orwell.
This film is quite different from the typically wholesome Disney animated film of the time and reportedly many parents were shocked by the subject matter (didn’t they read the book??).
Animation-wise, this film does resemble a Disney film as the colors and animals are meticulously drawn and composed.
The tale, as anyone who has read the book knows, is quite dark and satirical/political, and sadly, is relatable today as class systems, power, and greed are still quite prevalent in today’s society.
The ending of the film is changed and is more hopeful than the book ending, presumably to appeal to a larger audience.
The written fable is far superior to the film, though the film is well done and effective and gets the message across.
Made in the 1950s, Animal Farm (1954) still holds up well and is a look at the dark side of humanity.
