Bambi II

Bambi II, also known as Bambi and The Great Prince of the Forest, from 2006 is an American animated drama film that serves as a parallelquel to the original 1942 Bambi, valiantly returning to the lush wilderness and capturing the endearing charm of the original movie. Director Brian Pimental presents the unusual parallelquel, filling the narrative gap of the original film, focusing on the time immediately following the death of Bambi's mother and his experiences under the guardianship of his father.

In Bambi II, the Great Prince of the Forest, voiced by the renowned actor Patrick Stewart, takes center stage. After the untimely demise of Bambi’s mother, the Great Prince, unacquainted with parenthood, is forced to take his son under his wing. Now the responsibility of teaching his young son about the world around him and the laws of nature rest on the Great Prince's shoulders, offering an unconventional view into the relationship between a father and son navigating the complexities of loss and growing up.

The doe-eyed fawn Bambi, voiced by Alexander Gould, is as loveable as ever. He is an innately curious creature still learning to stand on his feet. He explores his surroundings with a charming innocence, stumbling over the laws of the wilderness, trying to understand his place within the vast expanse that is the forest. Simultaneously, Bambi starts to experience the various feelings that existence brings with it: Fear, joy, sadness, courage, and love, all of which are intricately captured in Gould’s voice acting.

Bambi II further explores the enduring friendship between Bambi and his playful pals, Thumper and Flower. Brendon Baerg returns to voice the spunky rabbit Thumper, with Keith Ferguson lending his voice for the adorable skunk, Flower. Their camaraderie and high-spirited adventures offer a light-hearted offset to the challenges Bambi faces, painting a well-rounded and wholesome picture of life in the forest.

Not just a simple retreading of the first film, Bambi II is a cinematic feat of storytelling that brings the personalities of the characters to life in a way that is deeply touching and relatable. The narrative of Bambi II revolves around themes of family, friendship, courage and coming of age. It offers a deep dive into the connections between the characters, an exploration of their relationships, and a narrative that ties together the entire cycle of life in nature, from the breeding of butterflies to the changing of the seasons.

Bambi II reaffirms the majestic aesthetic of the original 1942 classic, with animation that not only captures the essence of nature but also renders it in a magical, almost otherworldly light. The softness of the colors, the intricate detailing of the wildlife, and breath-taking landscapes showcased represent an important visual treat. The nature scenes are symphonies of colors, sparkling with an artistry that brings life to the wilderness' wonders, the tender emotions of the characters, and the beautiful chaos of survival.

Finally, the movie features a captivating soundtrack that perfectly captures the varying moods throughout the narrative. The flawless blend of dialogue, background score and animation in this film make for an immersive cinematic experience. Patrick Stewart’s commanding baritone, coupled with Gould’s innocent voice, creates an interesting dynamic that resonates throughout the narrative. Amid life's hardships, there's a striking emphasis on hope and love that creates an enriching and warm-hearted viewing experience.

In conclusion, Bambi II takes audiences on an emotive journey through the forest, unearthing the untold narrative of Bambi's younger days together with the Great Prince. The movie showcases relationships, responsibilities, and the unruly course of nature, creating a profound representation of life in the wild as we reminiscence the charm of the original tale. It's an absolutely enjoyable watch for those who loved the first Bambi and a great introduction to the classic for new audiences.