The Fox and the Hound

The Fox and the Hound is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus, and it uses the format for more than just a visual hook. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. 3,534 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Mickey Rooney's voice work is a big part of what makes it distinctive. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Disney Plus.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, The Fox and the Hound earns its spot. The Fox and the Hound has the visual identity that makes it immediately recognisable, and the writing to back it up. When a feisty little fox named Tod is adopted into a farm family, he quickly becomes friends with a fun and adorable hound puppy named Copper. Life is full of hilarious adventures until Copper is expected to take on his role as a hunting dog -- and the object of his search is his best friend! Every line from Mickey Rooney and Kurt Russell lands with more craft than you'd expect. It hit screens in 1981. The Fox and the Hound uses the freedom of animation to tell stories live-action could not attempt. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Animation fans will appreciate the craft, but The Fox and the Hound works for viewers who do not typically seek out animation too. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Visually distinctive and narratively ambitious in ways that hold up regardless of format. Worth watching in order from the beginning.