While Disney may now have Pixar in its stable now, the parent company is still trying to figure out how to steer their animation department back to the glory years that brought forth such films as “The Lion King,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty & the Beast” and “Aladdin.” While last year’s “The Princess & The Frog” seemed to be a step (in some circles) back in the right direction, the trailer for the forthcoming “Tangled” seems to to find the studio once again bringing forth a project that lacks the creative spark and distinctive voice of Pixar and even other studio projects.
Really, the biggest indication that the studio seems completely out of touch is the fact that the trailer is earnestly scored to Pink’s seven-year-old hit “Trouble.” Really? We’re not sure what audience is supposed to suddenly get excited hearing that song start pumping through the speakers, but even as a novelty choice it’s an odd one. As for the story, it’s kind of bland and feels like a rehash of things we’ve seen before. A blend between the fables of Rapunzel and Robin Hood, the story follows the unlikely pairing of a wanted thief and a kidnapped princess. Here’s the plot synopsis:
When the rogue Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi) chooses an isolated tower for his latest hideout, he has no idea the tower is already occupied by a princess who was kidnapped as an infant. Rapunzel (Mandy Moore), who can use her magical hair to heal, sees the devil-may-care bandit as her escape from the tower and a chance at a life of adventure – one that may reunite her with her long-lost parents and restore her royal heritage.
Disney has big plans for “Tangled” as it’s set to hit theaters on November 24th, Thanksgiving weekend. And yeah, it will be in 3-D.