The Great Mouse Detective (1986)

 

Genre: Adventure/Family

Time: 1h 14mins

Directors: Burny Mattinson, Ron Clements, John Musker, David Michener

Quick Summary: Basil, the rodent Sherlock Holmes, investigates the kidnapping of a toy maker and uncovers its link to his archenemy, Professor Ratigan.

Honestly, this is my favourite Sherlock adaptation, I love it so much. It's such a classic that is often overlooked.

The villain in this is absolutely terrifying and one of the best I've seen in a while. Every time he is on screen he just oozes cunning and evil without even doing anything, his character design is really well done. As well the song about him in this is so catchy and memorable, with a flair of extra to show how flashy he is.

I just loved Basil, his madness was just so funny and enjoyable to watch. He is such a good adaption of Sherlock Homes. The ending as well was amazing, but incredibly dark. The sequence is spectacular and one of the greatest animated pieces I've ever witnessed even today. The whole thing lasts maybe five minutes but it pushes the art of animation so far and is so thrilling to watch.

Even though the plot is simple, it works really well. It's honestly so compelling and is nicely paced throughout. This is such a good watch and incredibly overlooked. There are a lot of funny little moments, they aren't laugh-out-loud funny but intelligent chuckles.

One thing I will mention is that it has a lot of "Taboo" elements, such as guns, smoking, drinking and burlesque dancing. As an adult, it does not bother me, but this being directed towards children it can be something to consider. 

The animation isn't breathtaking, but it's still good. A lot of the character animation is done extremely well, in particular facial expressions. The backgrounds are lovely and dark, perfectly giving the film the atmosphere of foggy Victorian London.

I love this classic film, even with its "Flaws" and I fully recommend you watch this underrated gem.

8/10

"Ratigan, no one can have a higher opinion of you than I have, and I think you're a slimy, contemptible sewer rat!"

"Dr. Dawson: You're... despicable!

Ratigan: Hehe... Yes."