The original animated Dumbo was the first film I saw at the cinema as a young boy (not, I hasten to add, when it was originally released), and this Disney classic is well-loved but remains one of the company's more insubstantial films. This latest release in Disney's series of live-action remakes proves to be charming, as would be expected of Tim Burton in fable/whimsy mode, yet feels the need to go modern blockbuster in the finale. It is very well cast, with Colin Farrell rediscovering some of his earlier sincere twinkly charm and sincerity, Danny De Vito perfect as the old-fashioned circus owner, and Michael Keaton giving his usual villainous schtick to good effect. The visual effects are great, and moments when Dumbo takes flight in the big top arenas are glorious, wonderfully supported by Danny Elfman's thrillingly soaring score. Like the original film, this is still a lightweight confection, but it is a good re-telling of a fondly-remembered Disney classic.
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