It’s been a while since I last watched a movie. With autumn marking its arrival and the cold night sets in, our beloved projector has been taken down for the remainder of the year. I know, I sound dramatic, but some films are just made to watch on the projector and the projector alone. Nevertheless, I’ve managed to tick another handful of films off of my to-watch list. This is what I’ve been watching.

Dumbo

Out of all the Disney films, they could have adapted, many of us never thought we’d hear the words Dumbo live-action. How you take a flying elephant and turn it into something believable and meaningful is beyond me. Yet, after watching the film, there is a certain charm to be had. It’s by no means a blockbuster, but there is something captivating about seeing Dumbo take flight. The story itself is lacklustre, but if you read my Overrated Disney films post, you’d know that Dumbo is not high on my classics list. The human characters are basically props to wonder in awe at Dumbo, and while they try to tug the heartstrings with the family and the circus, they fail to add any real depth to them. Visually the film is quite striking, but the story leaves a lot to be desired for.

Broken Arrow

One of my dad’s favourite films, Broken Arrow takes us on a cat and mouse chase between rogue Air Force Pilot, Deak (John Travolta) and Riley Hale (Christian Slater) who gets caught up in a bomb heist after Deak attacks him. It’s a ridiculous thriller, but you have to just roll with it. Don’t expect this film to be anything but an action thriller. It’s not a classic, but it’s perfect for those nights you just want to watch something quick and easy. This one won’t blow your mind, and you won’t watch it again, but it’s fun in its ridiculousness. 

Atlantis: The Lost Empire

The single most underrated Disney film you will ever see. In fact, this is one of the most underrated sci-fi films you will ever see. Atlantis has everything going for it, and while many may baulk at a Dinsey film being a sci-fi classic, Atlantis explores a whole range of mature themes highlighting the consequences of greed and the unspoken damage of archaeological excavations on historic landmarks. Featuring the stellar voice acting of Michael J. Fox, our protagonist, Milo Thatch gets the prime opportunity to finally prove to the world that Atlantis does exist. With an eccentric benefactor to endorse the excavation, Milo’s research proves to be vital for this journey to the lost empire. Visually, the animation really captivates the magic and wonder of Atlantis, and the supporting characters don’t serve as a prop to the main character. They each serve a purpose, and while their quirks and unique skill set allow them to retain their individuality, this quality also highlights that unity within the crew, respecting the part they have to play in the crew. Atlantis is both a Disney and a sci-fi classic.

Have you seen any of these films?
What have you been watching?