It’S Not Worth The High Price

Mon., Jan. 10, 2000

Theresa Carpine, Ferris

“Fantasia 2000” (Rated G)

The truth is, I did not hate “Fantasia 2000,” the updated Disney feature combining beautiful symphony music and new animation. Most music lovers would enjoy James Levine’s conducting of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the cartoon images match each piece of music perfectly.

Of course, given that these are all separate works of music, there is no plot to keep the interest of the most casual movie viewers. Several cartoons were quite obscure, especially a working of “Beethoven’s 5th Symphony” involving abstract butterflies and a rendition of “The Pines of Rome” with flying whales. These could actually be considered disturbing to children.

The real problem I had with “Fantasia 2000” was the situation it was released under. To make the film more appealing, Disney had it formatted for IMAX screens. This was an interesting touch, but not a needed one. Also, since there are a limited number of IMAX screens, the price of a normal Spokane IMAX adult ticket was raised to $9. Nine dollars?! For a movie? I nearly didn’t see the movie when I saw the price.

If you are a true classical music fan and think $9 is a bargain for a professional orchestra concert, it is more than worth it to see “Fantasia 2000.” Otherwise, avoid the film and save your money for something you’ll enjoy 100 percent.

Grade: C+

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