Lauren Mittleman
Staff Writer
Recreating the 1941 Disney film, the new “Dumbo” movie stuns audiences with phenomenal CGI effects and intriguing characters.
“Dumbo,” a 2019 movie directed by Tim Burton, tells the story of a baby elephant born with gigantic ears and a circus struggling to make ends meet. When Joe and Milly Farrier, the two children of a former circus star, discover Dumbo’s unique ability to fly using his ears, Dumbo becomes the new main attraction for the circus, bringing large crowds and lots of money. The live action film engages viewers with touching moments and important lessons relevant to today’s society.
A man by the name of Vandevere soon hears of Dumbo’s newfound talent and insists on using him as a part of his own attractions at his amusement park, Dreamland. After the circus agrees to collaborate with Vandevere, things soon go awry when surprising discoveries are made and people turn against one another.
The CGI and other special effects in the film are created with ample detail, while also bringing the original “Dumbo” movie to life. This truly makes every scene better, capturing the audience’s full attention by using such vivid, intense colors throughout the course of the movie.
At the beginning of the film, when Mrs. Jumbo gives birth to Dumbo, Dumbo is immediately mocked and made fun of. Medici, the owner of the circus, even gives the order to hide Dumbo’s abnormally large ears and keep the public from seeing them. These sad, heartbreaking moments are used to portray how people can feel the need to hide anything that is perceived to be different or less than perfect, even if it’s what makes someone special.
However, when Joe and Milly Farrier find out about Dumbo’s ears, they love him anyways, just like his mother does. When Dumbo’s mom can no longer be there for him, Joe and Milly comfort him, creating a strong, heartwarming bond between the three of them. The relationships and dynamics between the characters make scenes even more emotional and captivating for the audience.
Another important aspect that shows up throughout the film is how Milly Farrier wants to be a scientist rather than be a part of the show in the circus. She uses her skills and knowledge of the scientific method, for example, to help Dumbo learn to fly, showing how if one keeps trying their best, almost anything is possible.
The film concludes with Dumbo and Mrs. Jumbo living happily together with dozens of other elephants in the jungle, ending the amazing movie in a happy, cordial way.
Although “Dumbo” is a movie meant for kids, it can truly entertain any age group. It’s mix of sad, dark scenes with happy, inspirational moments provides the perfect balance for a movie that anyone and everyone will enjoy.
Released on Mar. 29, “Dumbo” is rated PG and is available in theaters nationwide.
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