Anastasia (1997) Review – A Timeless Animated Classic

Introduction

Released in 1997, Anastasia is an animated musical adventure film directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman. Produced by 20th Century Fox, the film is loosely based on the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. Featuring stunning animation, an enchanting soundtrack, and a captivating story, Anastasia continues to be a beloved classic among audiences of all ages. This review explores the film’s plot, characters, music, animation, and cultural impact while incorporating SEO-friendly elements.

Plot Summary

The film follows the journey of Anastasia “Anya” Romanov (voiced by Meg Ryan), who, as a child, is separated from her family during the Russian Revolution. A decade later, she has no memory of her past and grows up in an orphanage. Determined to discover her true identity, Anya sets out for Paris with the help of con men Dmitri (John Cusack) and Vladimir (Kelsey Grammer), who hope to pass her off as the lost princess to claim a reward from the Dowager Empress Marie (Angela Lansbury).

As Anya undergoes training to become the perfect princess, she gradually regains lost memories and develops a deep connection with Dmitri. However, her journey is fraught with danger, as the sinister sorcerer Rasputin (Christopher Lloyd) seeks to eliminate her to fulfill his curse on the Romanov family. The climax of the film sees Anya facing her past and making a life-altering decision about her future.

Character Development

Anastasia (Anya)

Anya is a strong-willed and independent protagonist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Her character arc is compelling, as she transforms from a lost orphan into a confident young woman who embraces her past while shaping her own destiny.

Dmitri

Dmitri starts as a cynical con artist but gradually develops into a caring and selfless individual. His growing affection for Anya and his willingness to sacrifice his own interests for her happiness make him one of the film’s most endearing characters.

Rasputin

Unlike historical accounts, Rasputin is portrayed as a supernatural villain with dark magic powers. While exaggerated, his menacing presence and comedic moments (often due to his sidekick, Bartok the bat) add an entertaining contrast to the film’s dramatic elements.

Animation and Visuals

The animation in Anastasia is breathtaking, blending traditional 2D animation with early CGI techniques to create a visually stunning experience. The film’s depiction of historical locations such as St. Petersburg and Paris is beautifully detailed, adding depth to its storytelling. Character animations are fluid and expressive, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.

Music and Soundtrack

One of Anastasia’s greatest strengths is its remarkable soundtrack, composed by David Newman. Songs like “Once Upon a December” and “Journey to the Past” have become iconic, with their haunting melodies and poignant lyrics perfectly complementing the film’s themes of memory and destiny. The voice performances, particularly Meg Ryan and Liz Callaway (Anya’s singing voice), add emotional depth to the musical numbers.

Themes and Messages

Self-Discovery and Identity

The central theme of Anastasia revolves around self-discovery. Anya’s journey symbolizes the search for one’s identity and the realization that family is not just about blood but also about the people who truly care for you.

Love and Sacrifice

The film highlights the transformative power of love, as seen in the evolving relationship between Anya and Dmitri. Dmitri’s eventual willingness to put Anya’s happiness above his own ambitions adds a heartfelt layer to the story.

The Power of Memory

Memories play a crucial role in the film, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. The song “Once Upon a December” encapsulates this beautifully, illustrating how memories, even when forgotten, remain an integral part of one’s identity.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Anastasia received widespread acclaim from audiences and critics, earning nominations for two Academy Awards (Best Original Song and Best Original Musical or Comedy Score). The film was praised for its stunning animation, engaging characters, and unforgettable music. Over the years, Anastasia has maintained a strong fan following and was even adapted into a Broadway musical in 2017.