In 1973, the future of Walt Disney animation was in doubt. The division had been in danger before. Whenever times got tough, the labor-intensive and not-always-profitable animation group always seemed to be the first one on the chopping block. But before, they’d always had Walt to protect them. Now, not only did they not have Walt anymore, they didn’t even have a Disney. Walt’s brother, Roy O. Disney, died at the end of 1971, just two months after the opening of Walt Disney World. The company was now run by CEO Donn Tatum and President Card Walker, two businessmen who seemed like they’d be just as happy to turn Disney into a theme park company that occasionally made low-budget movies and TV shows.
I was 10 years old in 1973 and having a rather hard time in school. This film really lifted my spirits and listening to the storyteller album (narrated by Roger Miller) gave me some peace. I agree with your assessment but I will always be grateful to this movie for being a "friend" when I needed one.
I was 10 years old in 1973 and having a rather hard time in school. This film really lifted my spirits and listening to the storyteller album (narrated by Roger Miller) gave me some peace. I agree with your assessment but I will always be grateful to this movie for being a "friend" when I needed one.