Disney Plus is drawing attention to a lesser-known animated feature, The Rescuers Down Under, which celebrates its 25th anniversary on November 16, 2020. Released in 1990, this film, often overshadowed by its more popular counterparts, is a sequel to the original The Rescuers (1977) and marks a notable chapter in Disney’s history.
Following the death of Walt Disney in 1966, Disney faced a challenging era, with several of its releases falling short against competitors. The studio found its footing again with the 1989 release of The Little Mermaid, which initiated the Disney Renaissance. Despite being part of this resurgence, The Rescuers Down Under has a unique identity that sets it apart from films like Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King.
The film, directed by Hendel Butoy and Mike Gabriel, is notable for being Disney’s first animated theatrical sequel. It follows the adventures of the Rescuers, a group of mice dedicated to saving those in peril, as they attempt to rescue a boy named Cody from the sinister poacher Percival C. McLeach, voiced by the formidable George C. Scott. Despite its ambitious narrative, the film struggled at the box office, debuting to disappointing numbers and facing stiff competition from Home Alone.
Yet, The Rescuers Down Under stands out for its engaging storytelling and thematic depth. Unlike many Disney films, it avoids musical numbers, opting instead for a score by Bruce Broughton that evokes a sense of adventure reminiscent of John Williams’ work. The film’s opening scene, showcasing Cody’s liberation in the Australian Outback, captures the wonder of exploration, paralleling the fantastical settings of Disney’s other classics.
The sequel’s plot is more cohesive than its predecessor, focusing on the urgent mission to save Cody from McLeach, who poses an extreme threat not only to the boy but also to the wildlife he seeks to exploit. With a narrative that intertwines environmental concern and action, the film remains relevant today, emphasizing themes of conservation and bravery.
It also features moments of humor and charm, particularly through the interactions between the main characters, Bernard and Bianca, who embody the classic odd-couple dynamic. Their journey includes memorable encounters, such as a scene in a fine restaurant where cricket chefs prepare meals, showcasing the film’s creative world-building.
While the film did not achieve the commercial success of its Disney peers, it has garnered a dedicated fan base over the years. Its influence can be seen in subsequent adventure-oriented animated films that eschewed traditional musical formats for narrative-driven storytelling, paving the way for titles like Atlantis: The Lost Empire and Treasure Planet.
Ultimately, The Rescuers Down Under deserves recognition as a significant work within the Disney canon. As it becomes available for streaming on Disney Plus and other platforms, it offers a chance for a new generation of viewers to appreciate its unique contributions to animation and storytelling. With its compelling message and enchanting visuals, this film is poised to find its rightful place among Disney’s cherished classics.
