Bambi II

What’s the Story?

BAMBI II starts with Bambi learning of his mother's death. His father (voiced by Patrick Stewart), is the Great Prince and therefore has no time to raise a fawn. He seeks the help of the wise owl to find a doe to raise him as her own. In the meantime, Bambi reunites with buddies Thumper, Flower, and Faline to romp in the forest. In steps a new character, Ronno, a young bully fawn who teases Bambi, usually resulting in scuffles between the two.

Is It Any Good?

Most parents have distinct memories of watching Bambi as a child, and will be happy to know that Bambi and his father have come a long way in accepting their new life together. Disney has made great efforts to maintain the classic style of animation that gave Bambi the recognition and honor as one of Disney's greatest films. There's also typical feel-good Disney music by Allison Krauss and Martina McBride that accompanies a few scenes.

Although it's mostly the story of a mother-less fawn, Bambi II also shows the emotional development of a father who has lost a soul mate and is learning to be a single parent. But it's the inner drama of Bambi's struggle to accept his mother's death that may upset today's kids. At one point he hears his mother calling to him. It turns out to be a hunting ploy, and Bambi is cornered by several fierce-looking dogs. His father rescues him and Bambi is scolded for falling for "man's tricks." When Bambi asks about his mother, he's told to leave the past in the past. Swallow it down and let the pain stay there -- not the best message for kids.