Cast
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Orson Bean
as Frodo Baggins / Bilbo Baggins (voice)
Roddy McDowall
as Samwise Gamgee (voice)
John Huston
as Gandalf (voice)
Theodore Gottlieb
as Gollum (voice)
Casey Kasem
as Meriadoc 'Merry' Brandybuck (voice)
Sonny Melendrez
as Peregrin 'Pippin' Took (voice)
Theodore Bikel
as Aragorn (voice)
William Conrad
as Lord Denethor (voice)
Don Messick
as King Theoden / Easterling / The Mouth of Sauron (voice)
Paul Frees
as Orc / Uruk-Hai / Capt. Shagrat / Lt. Snaga / Lord Elrond (voice)
John Stephenson
as Gondorian Guard / Dwimmerlaik - The Witch-King of Angmar (voice)
Nellie Bellflower
as Eowyn / Dernhelm (voice)
Glenn Yarbrough
as The Minstrel (voice)
Crew
Director
- Arthur Rankin, Jr.
- Jules Bass
Writer
- Romeo Muller
Producer
- Jules Bass
- Masaki Îzuka
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Return of the King represents a fascinating example of Animation/Fantasy/Adventure cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Arthur Rankin, Jr. brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Return of the King took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 41 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 380 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Return of the King shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Neptune Frost, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Return of the King subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir, The Movie and Frozen IV explore similar territory, The Return of the King stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 11, 1980
- Runtime: 1h 38m
