Disney has made a stunning film which anyone who has felt like an outcast can truly relate to. When Quasi sings "Out There" (nice gay connections) it leaves the viewer breathless as he swings from steeple to steeple. When Esmerelda sings "God help the Outcasts," it rings true to the hearts of anyone who has ever felt pushed out. The lyrics read "God help the outcasts, strangers from birth, show them the mercy they can't find on earth..." The animation is absolutely smashing. The special edition laserdisc is worth all of its 89.00 price and more. Another great scene, very adult and perhaps the greatest 5-6 minutes in Disney history: when Frollo lusts for Esmerelda in front of a glowing fire. The scene beautifully flows from a song by Quasi right into Frollo's wrenching guilt-ridden portrayal. It is genuinely spine-tingling. The overall effect of "Hunchback" is not diminished by the new Disney ending. In fact, as Quasi is invited "out there" by the hand of a little girl, the movie delivers a bittersweet moment of personal growth. Come out. COME OUT! The world no longer thinks you are a hideous monster. And so...Quasi does.
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame," Disney-style, is in my all-time Top Ten.
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame," Disney-style, is in my all-time Top Ten.