It is of course a fabulous entertainment for a young child, and I first saw it when I was very young indeed. But, now a trained musician, I reviewed it not too long ago and they get all the music wrong, which is a shame. I remember the number "I Can't Do That Sum" from elementary school music instruction, can still sing it backwards and forwards, and am depressed as to how they botched it in this movie.
First, they changed the classic words without any apparent motivation. Then, operettas need crisp, serious singers. Someone like Funicello who can barely carry a tune after serious direction does not belong in this context. The style for a number in the Mickey Mouse Show won't do for any serious song, whether classical or show tune.
Victor Herbert deserved better. Musicals that got it right (aside from the great classics)? "Pennies from Heaven," and one I've been looking for for a quite a while, "Newsies." You put a voice where a voice should be.
First, they changed the classic words without any apparent motivation. Then, operettas need crisp, serious singers. Someone like Funicello who can barely carry a tune after serious direction does not belong in this context. The style for a number in the Mickey Mouse Show won't do for any serious song, whether classical or show tune.
Victor Herbert deserved better. Musicals that got it right (aside from the great classics)? "Pennies from Heaven," and one I've been looking for for a quite a while, "Newsies." You put a voice where a voice should be.