PIC of the Week – Peter Pan
Article series by Ray Schillaci
Interesting how Disney timed the release of their dismal failure A Wrinkle in Time with the re-release of one of their all-time classics, Peter Pan. Perhaps Disney is hoping the timing will give Wrinkle a chance at a new life on the home entertainment front. But, as the Magic 8 Ball would tell you, “Outlook not so good”.
It’s been five long years since Disney released their “Diamond Collection” version of this beloved animated film. Since then, those who profit from the OOP (out of print) market have charged up to $60. That price should drastically drop with this new release. There is not a big difference between the “Diamond” and “Signature” versions. With that, cinephiles and Disney fans may think twice before double dipping.
For anybody that is unfamiliar with the “Lost Boys”, “Neverland”, “Tinkerbell” and the boy who would never grow up, here’s your chance to immerse yourself into one of the greatest fairy tales to touch our hearts. This especially addresses all the men with the “Peter Pan Syndrome”: you guys will be teary-eyed. What Beauty and the Beast did for girls and women, Peter Pan does for boys and men. Okay, maybe not all men, but us big-hearted guys cannot help but love this film.
This is the story of a family in London, England, The Darlings, and their oldest, a young girl named Wendy who loves to live out the tall tales of Peter Pan with her two brothers. One night, that tall tale comes to life while visiting them, having lost his shadow. Pan invites all three to Neverland, and the sail off into the sky on the adventure of a lifetime.
Walt Disney’s adaption of the popular J.M. Barrie novel is brought to vivid life with memorable songs and touching themes that go straight to the heart of so many men, women, and children. The story also is not just out to entertain, Disney’s version has us contemplating a bigger picture painted for the adults as well. The animation is classic with absolutely some of the very best characters in a Disney movie: Captain Hook, Mr. Smee, and the wonderful pet dog that was more like a nanny, Nana.
I mentioned there were little differences in the new and previous Blu-ray version offered by Disney. Picture and audio is nearly the same. Although, this version does offer a 7.1 audio. All the classic extras from the “Diamond” version have been ported, and a few new ones have been added:
¥ Stories from Walt’s Office: Walt & Flight – Rebecca Cline and Edward Ovalle from the Walt Disney archives have us step into Walt’s office and talk about his inspiration for flight
¥ A Darling Conversation with Wendy & John: the voice actors reunite at the Disney Studio to reminisce
¥ A lyric video of the song “You Can Fly” with new CG backgrounds
¥ A lyric video for the deleted song “Never Smile at a Crocodile”
For me, personally, the big difference is the artwork for the front cover. The “Diamond” version is near breathtaking while the new “Signature” version is almost too clean and less classic. Compared to the “Diamond” version, the design almost looks like it was outsourced which is a shame for such a classic release. But, for those who did not have the chance to purchase the Blu-ray in 2013, now is your time to own this timeless classic.
Best Price: Tie – Target and Best Buy – $22.99
