March 30 - Meet the Robinsons

Image copyright Disney

On this day, in 2007, Walt Disney Pictures released its 47th animated feature, Meet the Robinsons. Robinsons is (very) loosely based on a children's book by William Joyce, A Day with Wilbur Robinson (really the only similarities are the descriptions of the family members). The film had been scheduled for release a year earlier, but then Disney bought Pixar and John Lasseter became head of animation. When he saw a cut of the movie, he proposed so many changes that almost two thirds of the thing was scrapped and done over, pushing the release date back. It then became the first Disney animated film to be released under John's leadership.

Robinsons has a stellar cast: Tom Selleck, Adam West, Angela Bassett, Laurie Metcalf, Harland Williams and Nicole Sullivan, for starters. The film's director, Steve Anderson, took a page from Brad Bird's book and provided the voice of the enigmatic (and supremely incompetent) villain, Bowler Hat Guy, as well as Grandpa Bud and Cousin Tallulah. He enlisted fellow Disney director Don Hall (who helmed Big Hero 6)to play Uncle Gaston.

Image copyright Disney

The critical response to Meet the Robinsons was mostly positive. Many critics praised it for its lush visuals and dense time traveling story. Others called it the worst theatrical Disney release in some time (they either clearly hadn't seen Home on the Range just three years earlier or they really can't be trusted to review movies). Audiences were a bit mixed in their reaction. It managed to gross almost $170 million but, on a budget of nearly $150 million, that's barely more than a break even situation. A direct to video sequel had been planned until John said let's do less of those and more higher quality original stuff. Personally, I think Robinsons is one of those vastly underrated Disney films. I find it delightfully eccentric and worth several more looks than it generally gets. If you missed it before, check it out. Just beware of hats that don't stay where you put them (and it may be a good idea to steer clear of bowler hats all together).