It’s the season finale of Animusings, and we are wrapping things up (for now) with a sojourn to Colombia and the home of the Madrigal family. Both Seid and Benjamin are back to help us talk about this 2021 feature, with discussions including family dynamics and drama as a focal story point, the significance of Mirabel’s glasses, how Dolores deserved her own musical number and why we can’t stop talking about Bruno (and his ability to speed-repair drywall).
56 - Moana (with Seid and Raevell)
The ocean calls to us as Kaela, David, Seid and Raevell dive in to this 2016 voyage of adventure and discovery set in the mythic South Pacific. Discussion points in this episode include the studio’s attempt at proper cultural representation, animating water and hair, sneaking in a Flight of the Concords-style song, scenes that give us chills (in a good way) and Alan Tudyk’s most prolific role yet.
49 - The Princess and the Frog (with Seid)
Dreams do come true in New Orleans, or at least they do for Kaela, David and Seid in this beloved 2009 return to traditional 2D animation. Topics include Clements and Musker’s trip to the Crescent City, small moments that acknowledge systemic racism, a rare character arc for a prince and villain showboating at its finest.
47 - Meet the Robinsons (with Seid)
We keep moving forward to 2007, and are once again joined by Seid to break down this tale of very eccentric family from the future - a film that, up to this review, Kaela and David had never seen before! Major talking points include hand-waving time travel conundrums, making jokes land effectively, positive messages about failure and great big beautiful tomorrows.
42 - Lilo & Stitch (with Seid)
The Hawaiian Islands are the backdrop for this oddball child-befriends-alien story that was a surprise success for Disney. Seid returns as our guest to discuss the Pudge Theory, watercolor wonders, animated crushes and the significant message of finding one’s own family.
33 - Pocahontas (with Seid and Raevell)
Kaela and David seek riches in the new world of 1995, and find only this VERY loosely historical animated feature instead. Joined by old friends Seid and Raevell, they’ll listen with their hearts in hopes to understand the real history, animation history and unusual expectations for this film on its release. Topics include deep-diving into Jamestown lore, comic relief dos-and-don’ts, magic wind and character chemistry in unusual places.
07 - The Three Caballeros (with Jesse Reyes)
They're brave and they say so. They're bright as a peso. Who says so? They say so: Kaela, David and special guest Seid (The Witching Hour, Darkly Lit) who take a look at this upbeat 1944 package film featuring Donald's birthday, an annoying bird, the return of José and the introduction of Panchito Pistoles, bringing the namesake trio together.