Disney dominates the family movie genre with an endless slate of animated and live action films, including a slew of timeless, beautiful classics such as 101 Dalmatians. This family favorite has been entertaining families since 1961 with it’s cute, spotted canine friends narrowly escaping the evil hands of antagonist Cruella De Vil — it has an irresistible, cute factor, fun action with a fabulous chase scene kids — perfect for family movie night!
Now, families can watch this classic over over, 101 Dalmatians: Diamond Edition arrives on Tuesday, February 10, just in time for your next movie night. What does the 101 Dalmatians Diamond Edition include? Well, this is the first time that the film is available on Blu-ray and Digital HD. I love Digital HD, you can watch your favorite titles anywhere. A DVD is also included in this special edition and there are awesome bonus features to extend your 101 Dalmatians experience including the following:
* New Animated Short – “The Further Adventures of Thunderbolt”
* Dalmatian 101 – Hosted by Disney channel’s Cameron Boyce
* Lucky Dogs – Conversations with the Disney Team
* Walt Disney Presents “The Best Doggoned Dog In the World” 1961 Version
* DisneyView Expand Your Viewing Experience
I just recently learned that the movie was adapted from a novel of the same name written by Dodie Smith. The story follows a young songwriter, Roger, and his loyal dalmatian companion, Pongo. He’s a bit underwhelmed with their bachelor lifestyle and sets out to find a mate for himself and his human. Enter Anita and her female dalmatian, Perdita. Anita and Roger, and Pongo and Perdita fall in love. Pongo and Perdita have a litter of 15 puppies, which prompt a visit from the conniving Cruella De Vil. Her offer to buy the entire litter from Roger and Anita is refuted, rather than move on with her bad self she comes up with an evil plan to kidnap the puppies. Pongo and Perdita accept the aid of a horse and cat to find out what happened to their babies. The team eventually learn that the puppies were smuggled to be skinned and made into fur coats (gasp and that’s really gross). The four-legged rescue team out smart Cruella De Vil. Pongo and Perdita are reunited with all of their children. We also learn how Roger and Anita wind up with 101 Dalmatians.
I had the special opportunity of meeting Disney Legend Flloyd Norman. Flloyd was an animator on the film who worked side by side with Walt Disney to bring this story to life! Flloyd talked about his career as a Disney animator and gave us a drawing lesson!
I absolutely adore 101 Dalmatians. This film has a ton of heart and warmth, the animation is superb (cutting edge at the time), and please say NO to fur coats. =)
* I attended an all expense paid trip in Los Angeles hosted by Disney and ABC Family!
