Disney’s live-action Pinocchio released was on Disney+ today as part of Disney+ Day. The film, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a new, live-action version based on the 1940’s animated film.
Pinocchio was the second animated Disney film, made after the initial success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and has been a beloved classic. As is with most live-action remakes, we went into this a bit skeptical of what the overall film would look like, as well as how they’d bring Pinocchio to life. However, the film is incredible and will tug at your heartstrings in all of the best ways.
Leading the cast as Geppetto is the incomparable Tom Hanks. With the live-action leaving Hanks as the main human in the film whose main interactions are his pets and Pinocchio, Hanks leaves you hanging onto every word. His work as Geppetto leaves you in love with the character and rooting for his happiness. He truly is stunning in this film.
Someone who completely surprised us but blew us out of the water was Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Jiminy Crickett. His voice is so spot on that hearing him say iconic lines such as “Well I’ll be” makes you nostalgic in remembering the voice of Cliff Edwards. Gordon-Levitt delivers a stunning vocal performance, and Jiminy Crickett is going to be a favorite for so many viewers. Benjamin Evan Ainsworth is wonderful as the titular character, making him as lovable as the original. Cynthia Erivo is simply stunning as the Blue Fairy, and when she breaks out into song, full-body chills erupted. She’s a wonderful vision on the screen and a perfect Blue Fairy. Keegan Michael-Key’s voice is easily recognizable as Honest John, and John is just as sleazy as the original. Key gives him his own flare that makes his performance great. Jaquita Ta’le, Sheila Atim, Giuseppe Battiston, Angus Wright, Lorraine Bracco, and Luke Evans all round out the cast with incredible performances.
Some viewers may be skeptical based on making this film live-action, but it knocks it out of the park. All of the characters are incredibly well done. Pinocchio looks just like the animated film. The visual effects are so great. Figaro and Cleo are there and add to the characters, as well as Honest John. They did very well using the effects to turn this beloved film into something that is going to make people nostalgic, versus having the effects look nothing like them. The story is right on point with the original, not adding anything that makes the story sluggish or totally out of character.
There are a few Disney easter eggs as well that will make fans of the film and other Disney films excited as well.
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If you’re a fan of Disney and Pinocchio, this is one live-action film you don’t want to miss! Pinocchio is now available to stream on Disney+.
