The remake of Dumbo has a ‘blessedly surprising pro-animal rights agenda’, according to one film critic who was given an advanced viewing of the highly anticipated movie.

Disney’s remake does not premiere until March 29, but many film critics have been given a sneak-peak.

Original

The original movie, released in 1941, features a young circus elephant who is flaunted by the show for having comically huge ears.

When a group of boys taunt the elephant, Dumbo’s mother tries to defend her child and is then isolated and imprisoned by circus bosses as punishment.

Anyone who’s seen the original couldn’t possibly forget the tear-jerking scene in which the pair are reunited through metal bars.

Following the preview of the remake, which is directed by Tim Burton, Disney sent the movie to a selection of critics and journalists to get the public excited for the release.

‘Pro-animal rights’

Hordes of journalists have since taken to social media to give their view. Tomatometer approved critic Courtney Howard was impressed by the film’s message. 

She tweeted: “#Dumbo has a blessedly surprising pro-animal rights agenda wrapped in a subtle, rebellious meta-commentary on a band of outsiders shaking up a corporate establishment. Its aesthetic design is dazzling, gorgeous & meticulous. The CG elephant is absolutely adorable.”

The remake of Dumbo has a star-studded cast, including Danny DeVito as circus owner Max Medici, who hires former star Holt Farrier, played by Colin Farrel, while Michael Keaton plays persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere.

Overall, reaction from critics was mixed. Some critics suggested the relationships between the human characters in the movie were ‘under cooked’.

However, most agreed it is visually a masterpiece, the animated Dumbo is endearing and lovable, while many praised the performances of the movie’s leading roles.

• Read: Disney’s theme parks have gone vegan

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