Le Lac des Cygnes

I first viewed this anime when I was around 9 years old. Of course, I saw it in English. I am now 19, and viewing it again, I find that this movie hasn't lost most of its charm.

A big plus in this film is how the original music from the ballet is integrated into the action going on-screen. This film actually introduced me to the music of Peter Tchaikovsky.

Aside from the music, I loved how the 6 main characters interacted with each other.

First, there are the two main leads, The Swan Princess herself, Odette, and Sigfried. You truly believe that these two are in love with each other. Odette also is not your typical damsel in distress, yet she's also not a tomboy. She's elegant throughout the whole movie while at the same time remaining the strong woman she is. The Prince grows through out the movie very subtly. The evil Wizard and his daughter are the total opposite of our two heroes. The Wizard Rothbart is very powerful, but appears to weaken while in the presence of Odette, whereas Sigfried seems to be more mature in the presence of Odette. The Wizard's daughter, Odelle, is very much like Odette in the way that they are both elegant. The differences start where Odelle is more provocative and sneakier than Odette. Her affection for the prince is also left up for interpretation.

Finally, the movie has added in two cute squirrels into this love story. They add much to the story, although I believe commentary on the drama that unfolds before them is most likely so the target audience, young children, will not get lost in all the twists and turns the movie goes through. They are a nice addition.

In conclusion, this is a really good movie to watch with your kids. A lot of heart was put into this movie and much is to be enjoyed while watching this movie.

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