The nineties was a decade filled with tons of iconic children's movies like Toy Story, Lion King, Space Jam, and Jumanji, to name a few. But there's one underrated movie for me that never rose in popularity, as far as I know, here in the Philippins and that is James and the Giant Peach. I only became aware of this film thanks to my uncle who gave me a VHS copy.
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Too Dark for Children
I would honestly say that James and the Giant is a very dark film in more ways than one. First, the setting of the story is grim. James lost his parents at an early age and was forced to live with his two cruel and abusive aunts. Now you might argue that a lot of Disney films have similar plot, but with James and the Giant Peach being part live action, the story hits closer to reality.
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Secondly, since this is a Tim Burton movie, it has a very depressing and gloomy ambiance, similar to The Nightmare Before Christmas. Half of the film was also done via stop motion puppets and their appearances can be a bit initimating to younger viewers especially Mr. Centipede.
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Third, there were a couple of nightmare-inducing scenes in this film like the metal shark. That took the fear of sharks to a whole new level with sharp rows of teeth and a harpoon for a tongue. There's also a scene where it gobbles up fishes and then spits out their severed heads in a platter, with the fishes still alive and gasping. Then there's the dreadful 'rhino' that rides through the storm clouds. It's cene was a true nightmare fuel when we were kids, I can only imagine what it would have felt like seeing it in the cinemas.
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Still a Great Children's Movie
And despite me calling it too dark for children, James and the Giant Peach has catchy and memorable songs that I still remember close to two decades after. The film also has many heartwarming moments highlighting the importance of having hope and striving to fulfill your dreams.
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The film ends with James finally reaching his destination of New York City and even parks his Giant Peach on top of the Empire State Building. It was in this moment that he finally learns to have the courage to stand up for himself which is a very important lesson to teach children.
Overall, James and the Giant Peach is a good movie to enjoy with the family. It has a good plot and a very unique style that's no longer present in these modern times.
I absolutely have to Rewatch this movie now, used to be one of my favorites! Totally forgot it existed until seeing your post. Much appreciated 😍