Must See Movie Monday - Anastasia (Animated)

Film: Anastasia
Released: 1997
Rating: G
Directors: Don Bluth, Gary Goldman
Voices By: Meg Ryan, John Cusack, Kelsy Grammer, Bernadette Peters, Angela Lansbury, Christopher Lloyd
Short Summary: Anya has spent most of her life as a orphan not knowing who she is. In her quest to discover her origins she meets two con men that want to pass her off as the last surviving Romanov child Anastasia, not knowing that she is actually the Russian Princess. Meanwhile the undead  Rasputin seeks Anastasia death.

Why It's A Must See Movie

I've picked Anastasia because I can't think of a single kid I know right now that has seen it. That makes me sad, because they are missing out on something great. Just because Anastasia isn't a Disney Princess doesn't mean that she doesn't deserve some love. Anastasia is one of my favorite animated films. It's one of the children's films that still has something in it for grown ups. Thus, you can never grow out of it.

Anastasia to me is great as just a film. The reason why is because the screenplay was treated just like any other film not just an animated one. The movie takes you for a ride with lots of well timed action scenes, all those great self discovery moments, of course a little romance. Throw in two of the cutest animal side kicks (Bartok and Pooka are awesome), a villain you love to hate, and an excellent musical soundtrack you've got a great animated film. The great thing about the music is that every song is good and they all propel the story.  I also love that Anastasia is based loosely on historical fact. Thus it is a period piece with magical elements.

In short this movie is just cool. I don't care if you're a kid or a grown up you need to watch it at least once. A hint to the parents out there...Anastasia is on Netflix. Although I remember that my younger cousins were kind of scared of Rasputin back when the movie came out, but other kids were fine with it. I think it just depends on the kid who is watching. Just be aware of that I suppose.

Thanks for reading. Happy Monday!