Review of The Last Unicorn (1982) by David S — 17 Apr 2010

Being a Rankin/Bass's initial theatrical attempt, the production values are not half bad. In fact it's almost like watching Disney's Sleeping Beauty which makes sense as both films were inspired by tapestry designs. This was released during a time when kids films treaded on some risky territory and god bless it for that. It doesn't stray too far from the maturity that the original book had.

Even though this is from the same people who gave us the Christmas specials, the character designs are a bit more refined looking. Lady Amalthea's design is very ethereal while the main villain is very intimidating and has an almost 100 percent stone face. The voice work is also excellent with Christopher Lee's strong deep voice being a sole reason to see the movie if there ever was a sole reason. Mia Farrow does a decent job lending both an otherworldly quality as well as innocent curiosity to the Unicorn. Alan Arkin and Tammy Grimes provide welcome comic relief.

The only downside to this whole affair is the songs by America. Honestly, they feel so out of place from the elegant design that the movie has. They could've gotten a then up-and coming singer named Enya to do it. That would have at least been more suitable. Oh and you know there's a problem when Mia Farrow sings one song (perhaps her weakest bit in the film) and a reprise is sung by someone else who is an even better singer. In Aladdin at least, they were more consistent in who sang and who spoke.

All in all, a really good version, but perhaps if they ever do that live action version, they could make some of the requested improvements.