Review of The Great Mouse Detective (1986) by Adrian B — 15 Jan 2011

Very likable, low-key Disney film. It follows the kidnapping of a toy-making mouse, and eventually his daughter, with the additional of a mouse named Basil trying down the kidnappers and uncovering their devious plot against the Queen (mouse). There are some very amusing characters, especially the cat "Olivia" and some beautiful animation, such as the "Big Ben." There are also similarities to classic old films. First, Basil reminds me of Laurence Olivier, although more recently as his character in his 1973 film "Sleuth." Second, the film, perhaps because of its dark animation, feels like an animated version of a film noir. Finally, the film resembles, perhaps because of when it has taken place, reminds of the film "Gaslight" starring Ingrid Bergmann and Charles Boyer. Although it does compare to some of the other greats of Disney, it is an appealing, though scary, film for children to watch. Perhaps this is where I fell in love with mystery and suspense films, although that was many years ago.

An additional note is the casting of Professor Ratigan, played by Vincent Price. Price was known for his acting career decades over and his is in another film that I really like, which is a film noir, from the 1940's called "Laura." He sounds nearly the same. In addition, "Laura" is a film worth checking out in addition to "The Great Mouse Detective.".