Jose B
"The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin" (1967) – A Whimsical Journey through the Gold Rush Era by José Beltrán
Rotten Tomatoes Rate: 7.5/10
Review:
"The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin" is a delightful and whimsical adventure that takes viewers on a thrilling journey back to the Gold Rush era of 1849. Directed by James Neilson, this Disney film captivates audiences with its endearing characters, lively performances, and a dash of humor.
The story follows the orphaned siblings Jack and Arabella Flagg, along with their family's former butler, Eric Griffin. Determined to seek their fortunes in San Francisco, they stow away aboard a ship bound for the bustling city. Roddy McDowall shines as Eric Griffin, who finds work as the ship's cook and becomes the anchor of the group.
The plot takes an exciting turn when a swindler and thief, Judge Higgins, steals a map to a gold mine from the actor Quentin Bartlett, who is also a passenger on the ship. Thus begins a chase that involves Eric, Jack, and Quentin as they set out to retrieve the stolen map and bring the cunning judge to justice.
The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, with standout performances from Roddy McDowall, Suzanne Pleshette, Hermione Baddeley, and Karl Malden. McDowall's portrayal of Eric Griffin, now affectionately known as "Bullwhip," is a true highlight. He brings charm, wit, and an unexpected strength to the character, making him instantly likable and endearing.
"The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin" successfully balances its adventurous and comedic elements, keeping the audience entertained throughout. The screenplay, penned by Lowell S. Hawley and based on the novel "By the Great Horn Spoon!" by Sid Fleischman, weaves a lively tale that combines humor, action, and a touch of romance.
The film's musical numbers, with songs written by Richard M. Sherman, Robert B. Sherman, Mel Leven, and George Bruns, add an extra layer of enjoyment. The theme song in particular is catchy and sets the tone for the adventurous spirit of the story.
It is worth noting that the Disney+ version of the film includes some edits for content, as mentioned before the film. While these edits may slightly alter certain scenes, they do not diminish the overall enjoyment of the film or its core narrative.
In conclusion, "The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin" is a charming and lighthearted film that takes audiences on a nostalgic journey back to the era of the Gold Rush. With its endearing characters, entertaining performances, and a sprinkle of Disney magic, this family-friendly adventure is sure to leave viewers with a smile on their faces. It may not be the most well-known Disney film, but it's definitely a hidden gem worth discovering for fans of classic adventures and heartwarming tales.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
07/03/23
Full Review
Liam D
Despite it being a bit mediocre and some elements that are questionable in modern viewing it still has a charming performance by the always likeable Roddy McDowall (Cleopatra, Macbeth)
Rated 3/5 Stars •
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
02/19/22
Full Review
Audience Member
The story of a butler that becomes a California gold rush legend. The premise is fun, but the execution was less fun. It turned into a live action cartoon, with guys hitting each other across the room and kisses from women setting off poorly animated cupids that revived them. I think this story would have worked better if they grounded it in reality more and the lead character used more wit than fist. Or just make it a cartoon. It's a fun silly story that is worth a watch if you're into a cartoonish adventure.
Rated 2/5 Stars •
Rated 2 out of 5 stars
02/15/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Não me simpatizo com obras baseadas em livos nos quais se altera grande parte da história, troca nomes de personagens, além de suprimir e criar outros, a obra em si, parecia maravilhosa, não carecia de tantos ajustes assim, o filme é divertido, um tanto longo, mas bem cativante, faroeste pastelão infantil…
Rated 2.5/5 Stars •
Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars
02/12/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Based on the novel By the Great Horn Spoon! by Sid Fleischman, this was the last Disney film directed by James Neilsen, who also made Dr. Syn, Alias the Scarecrow; The Moon-Spinners; Summer Magic; Gentle Giant and Moon Pilot for the studio. It also boasts songs by the Sherman Brothers, who produced more movie scores than any other songwriting team in history. They're best known for their songs from Mary Poppins as well as one of the most performed songs of all time, "It's a Small World (After All)."
After Jack (Bryan Russell) and Arabella Flagg (Suzanne Pleshette) are orphaned in Boston, Jack and the family butler Eric "Bullwhip" Griffin (Roddy McDowall) head for the gold rush in San Francisco. Jack is obsessed with the books he's been reading about the Wild West, which leads them across the country and into the orbit of the villainous Judge Higgins (Karl Malden).
Wrestling fans will enjoy seeing Mike Mazurki, who in addition to being a grappler and a heavy in plenty of movies, was also the first president of the Cauliflower Alley Club, an association of professional wrestlers. He plays Mountain Ox, who boxes against McDowall.
And Disney history fans will get to see Jimmy MacDonald, the voice of Mickey Mouse from 1947 to 1988, as a percussionist in the saloon scenes.
Rated 1.5/5 Stars •
Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars
02/06/23
Full Review
Audience Member
When a young boy runs away for the San Francisco gold rush, his butler and sister give chase in this Disney slapstick western, but parents should be aware of some outdated cultural depictions.
Rated 3/5 Stars •
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
01/15/23
Full Review
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