From Amazon.com
Just because Walt Disney created contemporary and traditional classics of animation doesn't mean the studio is out of ideas--not by a long shot.
The Great Mouse Detective is richly animated and offers a clever tale. It may not be as easily recognized a title as
Aladdin or
The Little Mermaid, but all three share the same director, Ron Clements. Originally released theatrically in 1986, the mystery borrows easily from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes and is based on Eve Titus's book
Basil of Baker Street.
When a brilliant toymaker is kidnapped by a creepy peg-legged bat, his daughter, Olivia, enlists the aid of the legendary Basil. Basil, Olivia, and Basil's assistant, Dr. Dawson, are part of an intricate city system of Victorian-era London mice. Basil quickly realizes his archenemy, Professor Ratigan (a rat who wants to be a mouse), is behind the abduction. Ratigan (voiced by Vincent Price) fiendishly aspires to take over London rodents--and will stop at nothing to achieve his greatest desire. The unlikely trio of good guys become heroes, of course. The engaging story line is a perfect introduction to Doyle's work and mysteries in general. Look for a very cleverly executed voice-cameo by Basil Rathbone (as Sherlock Holmes, natch). Alan Young (Mr. Ed) also provides a voice. Ages 4 and up. --N.F. Mendoza
Review
Coming on the heels of the disappointing The Black Cauldron, The Great Mouse Detective marked a welcome, if unexceptional, return to form for the Disney studio. Mouse is a modest and unassuming entertainment with wonderful parts that somehow add up to a slightly lesser whole. The animation is clean and solid, flowing smoothly yet with energy and featuring convincing and effective character design. Backgrounds are colorful and atmospheric, and there are a number of clever and amusing inventions, including a Rube Goldberg-esque deathtrap for Basil. The plot is strong, with the genre's requisite twists and turns (although not so many as to confuse younger viewers), and the film moves along at a lively clip. Vincent Price makes his cartoon debut, supplying the oiliness and slithering vocal tones the role requires. Barrie Ingham and Val Bettin are just right as Basil and Dawson, and Melissa Manchester puts in a pleasing music hall turn. The abbreviated score is only so-so, although Ratigan's big number is well staged. Despite all these assets, the film still lacks that little extra spark; fortunately directors Ron Clements and John Musker would find that spark (in a big way) with their next effort, The Little Mermaid. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide
