The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) Review in 2025
A classic Disney animated film set in 15th-century Paris, following the story of Quasimodo, a deformed bell-ringer who falls in love with a beautiful gypsy girl named Esmeralda.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be suitable for very young children due to some intense scenes and themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is definitely worth watching, especially for fans of Disney animation and adventure films. It's a classic tale of love, acceptance, and self-discovery, with stunning animation and memorable characters.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film tells the story of Quasimodo, a deformed bell-ringer who lives in the famous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. He befriends a beautiful gypsy girl named Esmeralda, and together they face the evil Frollo, who seeks to capture and punish her for her supposed witchcraft. Along the way, Quasimodo discovers his own identity and finds love, but ultimately faces a tragic fate.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a good balance of action, romance, and drama. However, some scenes may feel a bit rushed or convenient.
acting9.50/10
The voice acting is superb, with all the main characters being well-acted and memorable. The singing and music are also excellent.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with Quasimodo being a standout. The voice acting is also excellent, with Tom Hulce bringing Quasimodo to life.
direction9.00/10
The direction is solid, with some impressive animation and cinematography. However, some scenes may feel a bit disjointed or lacking in coherence.
cinematography9.00/10
The animation is stunning, with beautiful and detailed backgrounds and characters. The use of color and lighting is also excellent.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a beautifully animated and engaging film with memorable characters, stunning music, and a timeless story. The voice acting is superb, and the animation is stunning.
Cons
Some scenes may feel a bit rushed or convenient, and the direction may feel a bit disjointed at times. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"Frollo, you are a monster!"
"I see beauty in the world. Beauty in the darkness."
"Sanctuary! Sanctuary!"
