23 Years Later, This Is the Movie That Proves Disney's Audience Was (Very) Wrong
This is not only an underrated masterpiece, but also a perfect example of how genuine emotion and a bold creative idea can produce a work that grows more valuable over time.
In 2002, Disney experienced one of its most notorious flops – Treasure Planet not only failed to recoup its budget, but it was also quickly forgotten.
However, the movie has recently experienced a well-deserved resurgence. More than two decades later, we can finally appreciate this bold, beautiful work.
What Is 'Treasure Planet' About?
The story introduces us to Jim Hawkins, a boy who has been fascinated by stories of space pirates since childhood. His life changes dramatically when he receives a map to Captain Flint's legendary treasure.
With the help of a friend of his mother's, Jim assembles a crew and embarks on a space voyage. Little does he know, some of his companions are real pirates eager to seize the treasure.
'Treasure Planet' Is a Genius Reimagining of the Familiar Story
Unlike modern, safe remakes, Treasure Planet is a bold and wild fantasy adaptation of Stevenson's Treasure Island.
The creators didn't just set the story in space – they reimagined the classic by combining Dr. Livesey and Squire Trelawney into one character and replacing Captain Smollett with a female captain named Amelia.
They enriched the plot with dimensional portals and the threat of planetary destruction while preserving the spirit of the original.
'Treasure Planet' Is Made in the Rare Style of Retrofuturism
Treasure Planet isn't your typical sci-fi fantasy filled with spacesuits and blasters. Instead, it's a stunning retrofuturistic world where sailing galleons with fancy sails travel through space and officers wear classic uniforms.
The robots' and cyborgs' designs are particularly striking – they resemble steampunk-era mechanisms with gears and springs that make a distinctive creaking sound.
Even Two Decades Later, 'Treasure Planet' Is Still a Visual Feast With Heartfelt Story
Disney used unique technology to transform 3D models into frames that capture the warmth and vibrancy of classic hand-drawn animation.
Every frame, from the crescent-shaped spaceport to the soaring space whales, is a work of art.
However, Treasure Planet's main strength lies in its emotional depth. Jim's search for his father in John Silver becomes a touching drama about growing up, finding oneself, and balancing dreams with loyalty to loved ones.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Treasure Planet'?
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Treasure Planet has 68% from critics and 73% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.2/10.
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On Letterboxd, Treasure Planet scored 3.9/5.0.
Where to Watch 'Treasure Planet'?
Treasure Planet is available to stream on Disney+.
