To think of animated, feel good things and not think about Disney is impossible. In fact, Disney has been the flag bearer of animated film full of bright, colourful themes and cheerful, joyous narratives. Started in 1923 as Walt Disney Studios these films have withstood the test of time.
And even now, 106 years later they continue to entertain us. Adapting to the changing times, the narratives have changed, the princess have gone from being naive like Snow White to brave hearts like Moana. However, there was a time around 1980s when the Disney Studios were on the brink of a collapse.
Some of the most unexpected films that barely resembled the Disney narratives of being uplifting, cheerful helped it survive the 1980s. Today, we will take a look at these films that were not expected to be a massive hit and yet they surpassed every expectation to become one.
In fact, Disney was able to comeback in full form in the era that spawned from 1989 to 1999. You can red more about it, here.
1. The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)
Along with cartoon films, Disney was also known for live action films. And, the Apple Dumpling Gang remains one of the most loved films of its time. It was a time when buddy comedies were a becoming a thing In Hollywood. Although, the endearing outlaws in the film—Don Knotts and Tim Conway, were not buddy comedies in actual sense, their roles as a confused outlaw pair do create an iconic comedy pair.
The plot of the film is just as simple as the title: A gambler unexpectedly becomes responsible for three orphans who have inherited wealth from their father. However, the wealth attracts unwanted attention. And to save them and their wealth, the responsibility of its safekeeping is handed over to two confused yet totally loveable outlaw.
Although, the budget of the film is unknown, it made approximately $31 Million in box office collections. It went on to become one of the highest grossing Disney Films in 1970s.
2. The Fox And The Hound (1981)
This animated film is a dark, sombre one unlike Disney’s usual vibrant and happy films. It is also due to the fact the overall atmosphere of Disney was like it was trying its best to survive the changing times. And, though it is layered with emotions of friendships and letting go, it is authentic. A bay fox called Tod and a pup called Cooper become friends. However, growing up they realise they are meant to be adversaries and hence part-ways. It is an underrated gem way ahead of its time.
The film collected $43 Million at box office and is said to have been the one that helped keep Disney keep afloat in changing times.
3. Good Morning Vietnam (1987)
Venturing into unchartered terrains is one of the hallmarks of a great film. And the same is true about Good Morning Vietnam. A war-comedy film, it explores the discomforts of military seniors stationed in Vietnam during the war, when a military radio DJ Adrian Cronauer is sent there. He entertains the troops with his jokes and humor and quickly gains popularity. However, this too has consequences.
Good Morning Vietnam is sought to be Robin William’s one of the most breakthrough performances. The film made a total collection of $123 Million for Disney.
4. Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
Disney has forayed much into dark comedy fantasy films as well. Its just that we do not know enough, arrogance is bliss..ahh. Okay, coming back to topic, the film is set in a parallel world. It is 1947 and you are in Los Angeles. Here, humans and cartoons( called Toons) live together. Though usually peaceful, a recent death has put a question mark on a much loved popular toon actor, Roger Rabbit. He is being framed for the murder of the business tycoon Marvin Acme(human).
Twist of the tale is that the detective selected to clear Roger’s name harbours deep resentment for toons. The film that starts with a murder mystery turns out to be a much bigger conspiracy. If you like the plot do watch, because we are spilling the beans no more.
The film went on to become the second big hit of 1988, collecting, $351.5 million worldwide at box office.
5. Sister Act (1992)
A woman called Deloris witnesses her boyfriend commit a murder. She escapes and in order to safeguard her, the authorities make her hide in a convent, under the guise of a nun. However, being a nun and acting like one are two different things. And that’s why Deloris never quite gels in with them. So, she is made to head a choir group in the convent. However, that turns out to be a turning point for the church choir.
The feel good comedy musical went straight to the hearts of people and connected with them quite easily. It is evident from the fact that it was made on a budget of $31 Million and went on to collect $231 at the box office. It cast Whoopi Goldberg as Deloris and made her a household name.
In fact, after the film’s success the makers made a sequel and also a Broadway musical.
6. The Sixth Sense (1999)
Dr Malcom Crowe, a child psychologist, treats Chole, his 9-year old patient. Chloe tells him about his unnatural abilities of being able to interact with ghosts of the dead. Initially, he tries to dismiss him as a Schizophrenic, however his former client also narrates a similar experience. So, he believes Chloe and treats him, helping him use his abilities to interact with the dead . However, when Chloe suggests him something to repair his marriage with Anna, Malcom stands face to face with a truth, he did not expect.
Disney’s supernatural thriller film made on a budget of $40 Million went on collect a record $672 Million at Box office.
These films barely meet the expectations of a Disney film we hold in our mind. However, they leave us with a beautiful message that conformity can be a good thing. However, a little experiment here and there in what we do can lead to massive success. Do you agree?