The Sword in the Stone

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The Sword in the Stone

G

1963

1h 20m

Kids & Family

Fantasy

Animation

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Popcornmeter

65%

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31 Reviews

73%

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100,000+ Ratings

This Disney adaptation of the classic fable chronicles King Arthur's humble beginnings. As an orphaned child, Arthur, who was then known as Wart, wants to help his foster brother, Kay, succeed in becoming a knight. While helping Kay train, Wart stumbles upon a cabin belonging to Merlin, a bumbling but talented wizard. Merlin does his best to convince the boy that he is bound for greatness, and when Wart and Kay travel to London to attend a jousting contest, they learn that Merlin was right.

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Critics Consensus

A decent take on the legend of King Arthur, The Sword in the Stone suffers from relatively indifferent animation, but its characters are still memorable and appealing.

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Nell Minow

Common Sense Media

12/29/2010

4/5

Delightful classic brings Arthur legend to life.

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Empire Magazine

11/03/2009

3/5

It feels older than contemporary Disney work due to flat, creaky animation. The story still has resonance for kids, though.

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Dave Kehr

Chicago Reader

11/03/2009

There is still some life in the characterizations, though the animation is turning stiff and flat.

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Carson Timar

ButteredPopcorn

12/23/2023

While Disney has had some misses, few are as obvious and consistent as The Sword in the Stone.

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Wesley Lovell

Cinema Sight

10/05/2023

3/4

Those who enjoy Disney animation, as I do (I have all but seven of Disney’s animated features on video cassette), may take special liking to this feature with its crazy villainess, but may feel a bit let down in the plot area.

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Matt Brunson

Film Frenzy

09/08/2023

2/4

Aside from the owl Archimedes, none of the characters make any impression whatsoever.

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Caleb R

@calebderosa Dec 15

One of the Best Disney films of all-time! Perfect for ages 5+, the whole family, and adults! Prepare for adventure, laughter, and heartwarming moments in this cinematic masterpiece - The Sword in the Stone

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TheMovieSearch R

@TheMovieSearch Dec 11

The Sword in the Stone is one of Disney’s most overlooked classics, yet it remains a lively and entertaining adventure that still holds up today. The film follows young Arthur as he crosses paths with Merlin, and their chaotic magical lessons bring a fun, energetic charm to the story. Merlin’s eccentric behavior and Arthur’s innocence create a dynamic that keeps the journey engaging, while characters like Archimedes add even more personality. Madame Mim steals every moment she’s in, proving she deserves far more recognition as a standout Disney villain. The film’s animation style feels warm and nostalgic, and the screenplay provides humor and heart without losing sight of Arthur’s growth. Even though Disney rarely highlights these characters, the movie itself is filled with memorable moments and creative storytelling. It may not be as widely celebrated as other classics, but it remains a delightful and magical experience worth revisiting.

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Sarah S

@Braxton188 Dec 2

More like bored in the stone! OOOOOH

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L. F

Jul 2

Such an underrated Disney film!!! Loved it when I was little and appreciate it even more as an adult. Layered storyline, brilliant characters with a tight, funny script. Brilliant!

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Luke R

@LuckyM0vi3Buff Jul 1

It’s an alright film. Most characters of this film are morons. When the father bumps that oafish brute with a sword, that could’ve injured him. And by the way, I hate it when Arthur change his voice. The man version, sounds weird.

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Juju S

Jun 26

Une adaptation divertissante mais sans plus.

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Wolfgang Reitherman

Director

Sebastian Cabot

Sir Ector

Rickie Sorensen

Wart

Alan Napier

Sir Pelinore

Karl Swenson

Merlin

Norman Alden

Sir Kay

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Synopsis

This Disney adaptation of the classic fable chronicles King Arthur's humble beginnings. As an orphaned child, Arthur, who was then known as Wart, wants to help his foster brother, Kay, succeed in becoming a knight. While helping Kay train, Wart stumbles upon a cabin belonging to Merlin, a bumbling but talented wizard. Merlin does his best to convince the boy that he is bound for greatness, and when Wart and Kay travel to London to attend a jousting contest, they learn that Merlin was right.

Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Producer: Walt Disney
Screenwriter: Bill Peet
Distributor: Buena Vista Distribution Co. Inc.
Rating: G
Genre: Kids & Family, Fantasy, Animation
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 25, 1963, Original
Release Date (Streaming): Sep 23, 2013
Runtime: 1h 20m

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