Cast
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Meg Ryan
as Anastasia (voice)
John Cusack
as Dimitri (voice)
Kelsey Grammer
as Vladimir (voice)
Christopher Lloyd
as Rasputin (voice)
Hank Azaria
as Bartok (voice)
Bernadette Peters
as Sophie (voice)
Kirsten Dunst
as Young Anastasia (voice)
Angela Lansbury
as Dowager Empress Marie (voice)
Rick Jones
as Czar Nicholas / Servant / Rev. Soldier / Ticket Agent (voice)
Andrea Martin
as Phlegmenkoff / Old Woman (voice)
Glenn Walker Harris Jr.
as Young Dimitri (voice)
Debra Mooney
as Actress (voice)
Arthur Malet
as Travelling Man / Major Domo (voice)
Charity James
as Anastasia Impostor (voice)
Liz Callaway
as Anastasia (singing voice)
Crew
Director
- Don Bluth
- Gary Goldman
Producer
- Gary Goldman
- Don Bluth
- Laura Jo 'L.J.' Wentworth
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This adaptation is quite similar to the Brynner/Bergman telling of this story from 1956 - only this one features one of Disney's better baddies to liven it up and inject a bit of nasty menace to the proceedings. When Rasputin is cast aside by the Russian Imperial family, he brings down a curse on their heads that results in revolution, murder and mayhem. Shortly afterwards, a young girl is walking past a boarded-up palace one chilly evening and she breaks in. That's when she encounters the sheltering young "Dimitri" and his cohort "Vladimir". The former man takes a bit of a shine to the young girl, and after a few glances at some of the portraiture adorning the walls, concludes that she could be the eponymous Grand Duchess and their ticket to riches in Paris. She's not as willing at the con artistry as they are, but is hungry and cold and desperate so accompanies them to France where an intense course of training, a convenient friendship with "Sophie" and some perseverance sees her in the presence of her would-be grandmother, the Dowager Empress. Will the old and somewhat sceptical lady be convinced...?Meantime, the spectre of their erstwhile spiritual advisor is aware that she is perhaps on the cusp of restoring the Romanov fortunes, and so conjures up all of his dastardly might to ensure that the demise of the family is complete. Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens provide a modestly powerful score but the lavish look of the film, some colourful visual effects (mindful of "Sleeping Beauty" from 1959) and a solid script deliver an entertaining story of just how powerful love can be - even when faced with the lure of an enormous diamond tiara.
Dec 6, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Anastasia represents a fascinating example of Animation/Family/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 Don Bluth 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 1997, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Anastasia took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $53.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 206 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Anastasia shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Man with the Golden Gun, which focuses more on action than character development, Anastasia offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Fantasia and Aladdin explore similar territory, Anastasia 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: November 20, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Budget: $53,000,000
- Revenue: $139,804,348
Where to Watch
