Richard Rich

A very bland and forgettable sequel, and of course of an animation quality as far below the original as the plot is, but still not without some decent moments of comedy. The many logical holes are annoying, but mostly expected of this type of film and era (though the happy ending is particularly nonsensical, unfortunately), and at least the magic seems actually magical, and the storylines more or less organically grown from the established continuity. Not a terrible film, just not a good one.

Ironically for the film where Don Bluth quit during production, this is the Disney film that to me feels the most like a Don Bluth film. It's a bit dark, but full of heart, can feel slowly paced, but has a genuine story that drives it forward. Even so, for a children's movie, it's not all that stimulating (see aforementioned slow pace), and I never cared much for it myself growing up. As an adult, I have a much bigger appreciation for it than I ever did as a child (as I indeed do with the show more better ones among Don Bluth's films) which is how it edges up to four stars now. show less

Good condensation of the mission of Alma & Amulak to the apostate Zoramites. Impressive interpretation of the Rameumpton. Gives a subtle shout-out to present-day missionaries making door approaches without success, but the anachronistic "so long" was jarring.
Animated slow motion for effect was okay; violence is blacked out since this is intended for children.

The song about the seed of faith was nicely illustrated.
The song over the credits slipped in a phrase from "You'll Never Walk Alone" show more from Rodgers & Hammerstein's "Carousel," but I don't know if that was deliberate or just an unconscious memory.
Most of the target viewing audience of children may not recognize it, but their parents may, as it has been covered by many modern groups, including Elvis, Groban, & Celtic Women, and is the "anthem" of the Liverpool Football Club (soccer). show less

Oof, right in the feels, especially if you know how it ends in the book. Loved this movie as a kid but it lost its shine with a more mature perspective.