Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue Rings the Bell

The world of fairies and sparrowmen that Tinker Bell inhabits is a fun place full of new characters and a familiar mythos that we’ve been introduced to through the Peter Pan stories and the previous two Tinker Bell movies. The third film, Produced by DisneyToon Studios, Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue brings all the stories and characters together in a captivating and exciting adventure for all the family.

Tinker Bell, the world’s favorite fairy, spreads her mirth and magic for audiences of all ages, as the worlds of fairies and humans meet for the first time in Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue. The all-new, original full-length CG animated film features breathtaking animation, spectacular music and an all-star cast of voice talents. Available online and in stores today on Blu-ray Combo Pack (includes Blu-ray and bonus DVD of the film in a single package), DVD and Movie Download.

From time to time Disney Studios has produced movies that started out as Direct-to-DVD but ended up released into theaters. The Peter Pan ‘Return to Neverland’ movie comes to mind, and Toy Story 2 started out as a direct-to-DVD movie, although the path isn’t exactly equal. The third film in DisneyToon Studios Tinker Bell DVD series is so good, I believe it could have done well in theaters (presuming it had little or no competition from similar child fare when released).

The biggest problem I had with the film was the third act, which was not in proportion to the rest of the film as far as pace, style, and mood. But it was fun and not really predictable (unless you had the misfortune of seeing one preview that gave it away).

However, don’t let the somewhat hokey ending distract you from the love and care that was put into producing this film. The animation and character development in Rescue is a notch or two above previous efforts. Perhaps it’s because they’re away from Neverland for the whole film, but everything is more fully realized, including the plot. All the characters from the previous two films are there and most get a moment or two to shine.

For me, the film’s big moment came a bit early when Tinker Bell touched the heart of the human girl in a special way. You can really see how Tinker Bell is a special fairy. Plus it’s great to see some of the back story you imagine when watching the Peter Pan films come to life.

Here’s a clip from the film that really captures the beauty and amazement you feel through much of the movie:

If you enjoyed the first two films or any of the Peter Pan series, I really think you’ll like Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue.