REVIEW: While ‘Dumbo’ may be weightless, the 2019 remake leaves audiences waiting for more

The+new+film+is+a+repetitive+letdown.

Courtesy of Google Images

The new film is a repetitive letdown.

Tim Burton’s 2019 “Dumbo,” released Friday, March 29, attempts to modernize the 1941 Disney classic of the same name into a heart-racing, mystery-filled movie. The film may touch some hearts when it points out the importance of trust and keeping promises, but overall, it feels like a repeat of the original film, and the plot is a “copy-paste” of many movies out there today.

The film features a young elephant with massive ears, Dumbo, who is put in the hands of World War I veteran Holt Farrier. His children, Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins), discover that Dumbo can fly, and he soon becomes the main attraction. The Farrier family must endure hardships of keeping Dumbo safe since many others want him.

“Dumbo” lacks a new story structure and is very predictable. There is not enough story to sustain this live-action film for nearly two hours. The movie struggles to stay interesting by dragging itself out with slow action scenes and long conversations.

Although the graphics are visually pleasing, they are overshadowed by repeated clichés like, “But dad, you promised!” The children come off as the heroes, and the parents appear to be evil and egomaniacal, much like many other classic Disney films.

Despite the Farrier children’s stereotypical roles, there is never a dull moment with them. Their on-screen relationship almost convinces the audience that they are siblings.

The soundtrack is twisted and gothic, especially the song “Baby Mine.” The original song is a soothing lullaby, while the new one has a screeching and scary sound. This is very on-brand for Burton’s style and adds something new to a classic.

Overall, Burton’s film is a major letdown compared to the classic 1941 movie. Despite the many talented actors and an incredible soundtrack, “Dumbo” is brought down by the overdone plot points and cliché themes. Disney’s recent remake trend leaves audiences bored and wanting more than the same recycled stories.