Watch Dumbo

In 2019, the live-action adaptation of the beloved classic Disney film Dumbo was released, directed by Tim Burton and starring an ensemble cast including Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton, and Danny DeVito. Set in the aftermath of World War I, the film follows the struggling circus owner Max Medici (DeVito) as he acquires a pregnant elephant for his show, only to discover that her baby, Dumbo, has enormous ears that allow him to fly. At first ridiculed and treated as a freak, Dumbo becomes a sensation and attracts the attention of V.A. Vandemere (Keaton), a ruthless entrepreneur who offers to buy Medici's circus and showcase Dumbo in his own lavish theme park. With the help of a former horseman named Holt Farrier (Farrell) and his children, Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins), Dumbo must navigate the dangers of show business and find a way to reunite with his mother. The film expands upon the original story of Dumbo by introducing new human characters and plotlines, while still maintaining its heartwarming and fantastical elements. The performances are standout, particularly DeVito's portrayal of the jaded but kind-hearted Medici and Keaton's charismatic yet villainous Vandemere. Farrell's character Holt, a veteran who lost his arm in the war and returned to find his family and career in shambles, serves as a poignant reflection of the post-war societal shifts and economic struggles that affected many during that time period. The visual effects are impressive, particularly in Dumbo's flight sequences and the elaborate sets and costumes of Vandemere's theme park. Burton's signature dark and whimsical style is also present throughout the film, adding a unique flavor to the familiar story. Despite the changes and additions made to the original plot, the film still remains true to the core message of the importance of family and embracing one's differences. It also addresses timely themes such as animal cruelty and the danger of greed and exploitation in the entertainment industry. Overall, Dumbo is an endearing and visually stunning film that successfully captures the magic and charm of the original while also adding new depth and complexity to the story. It is a must-see for fans of the classic animation and for those who simply enjoy a heartwarming story with a touch of whimsy.