The Small One

The Small One is an enchanting animated feature by Don Bluth, released in 1978. This heartwarming tale is completed with an amazing voice cast that includes the talents of Sean Marshall, William Woodson, and Olan Soule.

Set in biblical times, The Small One tells an emotionally charged story of a young boy living in ancient Nazareth whose devoted companion is his aging donkey, affectionately referred to as 'Small One'. The boy, the son of a woodcutter, shares a deep bond with Small One. The grey, long-eared donkey, though old and weak, has a heart full of affection and loyalty. Together, the boy and his donkey share an idyllic life, filled with laughter, kindness, and a deep, abiding friendship that surpasses the barriers of species.

However, the tranquility of their days is interrupted as the boy's father determines that Small One, due to his age and declining health, is no longer able to help with their work, and hence, it would be best to sell him off. This revelation throws the boy into a painful dilemma - he pledged to take care of his beloved donkey and finding the most suitable home for him becomes a provider of many emotional moments that form the highlights of the movie.

Despite his sorrow at having to part with his best friend, the boy is determined and sets off with Small One into the marketplace of the ancient city, embarking on a quest to find a home for the beloved creature. Marshal's empathetic voice acting strikes a chord with viewers throughout this journey as he convincingly brings to life the emotions of a young boy poised on the verge of a difficult farewell.

The movie retains an aura of charm and innocence even amidst the bustling marketplace scenes of the ancient Middle Eastern city, beautifully animated with a warm color palette. The landscapes breathe authenticity and immerse the viewers in ages far removed from their own.

The interactions that the boy has with potential buyers form the backbone of his journey, showcasing the constant tussle between maintaining his loyalty towards Small One and the practical necessities of life. Glimpses of human nature and their varying approaches towards animals are subtly portrayed through these exchanges.

Small One and the boy's journey reach their climax suggested by strains of hope and themes of sacrifice, acceptance, and overwhelming love. The storyline is immaculately sewan into the larger biblical narrative, treating viewers to a nuanced and emotional portrayal of characters that have often been relegated to the backdrop.

Supporting characters, including the boy's father and the people he encounters while trying to sell Small One, have been quintessentially voiced by William Woodson and Olan Soule. While Woodson's father figure is filled with pragmatism and concern, Soule's diverse characters bring humor and depth to the narrative.

The Small One is much more than a captivating storyline and beautiful animation. It skilfully blends entertaining moments with profound lessons about friendship, loyalty, love, and sacrifice. The film balances levity and depth with ease, making it a suitable viewing choice for both children and adults. The overall animation quality impressively reflects the vintage style of Don Bluth – the mastermind behind timeless classics such as The Secret of NIMH and An American Tail.

Among the most significant highlights of the movie is its music. The soundtrack beautifully complements the narrative, tugging at the viewer's heartstrings and amplifying the movie's emotional resonance. The musical backdrop sets the tone for the narrative and provides a pulse to the story's progression.

In conclusion, The Small One stands testament to Bluth's ability to weave emotional tales with an inherent simplicity that strikes a chord with the viewers - regardless of their age. While being rooted in the past, the narrative carries integral messages about compassion and friendship that remain timeless, making it a classic that continues to charm audiences even after decades since its release. The Small One is a wonderful exploration of the relationship between a young boy and his faithful companion, gently taking us through a tale filled with sadness, joy, hope, and an underlying theme of undying love.