Review of Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001) by Scryptkeeper — 13 Jan 2023

Often overlooked in the long history of Disney’s animations, “Atlantis” presents a meticulously-crafted interpretation of its namesake. Overall, its depiction of the fall of the ancient city and its subsequent rediscovery is engaging and well executed; unfolding at a swift pace that sets the plot in motion while avoiding excess drag and needless filler. Many of the characters are colorful in their presentation and breathe life into the story through a combination of intelligent dialogue and fine tuned visual aesthetics. Moreover, the rich, hand-drawn art manages to capture their vibrant personalities alongside the wonder and mystique of the world settings around them: from the bustling streets of the early 1900’s to the foreign atmosphere of the lost empire itself.

Though the film takes on a more serious undertone by presenting death and humanity’s darker tendencies in a number of its action segments, it also respects and utilizes the traits of honor, sacrifice, and a genuine element of innocence to stave off an entirely nihilistic outlook. That is to say that while “Atlantis” is a poignant departure from the more kid-friendly and blindly optimistic films that dominate the genre, it contains enough wit-driven humor and slapstick antics to still appeal to younger audiences.

In summary, if you are looking to embark on an adventure that may have slipped under the radar, or are interested in taking a closer look at a renaissance animation, you may just discover a diamond in the rough.