Loosely based on Victor Hugo's 1830 novel about the fictitious bell ringer in the top of the famous Paris cathedral, Hunchback has been given the typical mouse-house treatment as Hugo's tragedy is moulded into the patented happy ending formula with lots of singing and dancing and many of the stock Disney characters that have adorned their recent animations.

Yet, for some reason, Disney's Hunchback really works for me. I went into it expecting Hugo's novel to be mere inspiration--not script--and therefore wasn't disappointed by the modifications. Even with the alterations, Disney is still attempting to put it's most complex story to animation--a story that has more adult appeal than previous Disney flicks, which is why many parents are confused.

The problem is for children to understand the core plot of the movie, they need to see that lust is the entire reason for bad guy Frollo's infatuation for the beautiful Esmeralda. As a parent, that's a pretty complex subject to address to a five year old, which is why my younger children will be waiting a few more years to see the movie. However, the script administers appropriate consequences for Frollo's bad choices, and in the culminating Hellfire scene, he admits to making a choice to follow the devil.

I wish Hollywood would receive the same outcry from parents when far more violent films are released along with promotional toys being pandered to children at hamburger outlets. This is a beautiful film with amazing animation and inspiring music that even shows religion as being positive and beneficial. But animation alone does not mean "suitable for all ages." For young children, Hunchback may be a wait-and-see situation--but worth the wait.

Rod Gustafson

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