1955’s Lady and the Tramp was Disney’s first widescreen animated release, a format which reportedly added an additional 30% to the production costs of the film. Though it may seem like an odd first film to try the format on, given the relatively small nature of the story, the results are impressive.
The wider picture allows for the world to be more richly characterized and is used to greatest effect during establishing shots. For the more intimate scenes it becomes apparent that the animators and director were not fully confident is how to use this extra space to maximum effect, but the scenes that do, notably the chase and rat fight, are worth it. Another standout element here is the characterization of the dogs, with the animators filling them with small nuances that will be instantly recognizable to anyone who has owned a dog, belying the initial impression that the animation is simplistic.
Production wise, there is nothing here to suggest its age. The simple nature of the story may cause some viewers to lose interest, but both children and animation fans will find plenty to enjoy.
Up next: Sleeping Beauty (1959)
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