Sinbad stands tall as an iconic animated fantasy classic, breaking boundaries for black male actors while introducing audiences worldwide to his unique adventures as…
Sinbad stands tall as an iconic animated fantasy classic, breaking boundaries for black male actors while introducing audiences worldwide to his unique adventures as Sinbad the Sailor.
Not only is the plot of this movie ridiculous and high-spirited; animators created some truly beautiful visual concepts as they brought to life its sexy, energetic style. Furthermore, viewers of all backgrounds found the film entertaining; even those unfamiliar with animation movies found it enjoyable viewing experience.
At the start of this dazzling adventure, evil wizard Jaffar casts an evil spell that throws an otherwise prosperous kingdom into darkness and despair. Now it is up to Sinbad (Lou Ferrigno in full pirate regalia and sporting an Afro), an adventurous sailor led by legendary seaman Captain Davy Jones (Lou Ferrigno with an Afro) to recover magical stones necessary to break it; his journey will lead him past Amazon women, into caves full of sword-wielding skeletons, into giant rock monster heart before culminating with Sinbad facing off against his evil double!
This version of the classic tale is more violent and sexual than previous adaptations, yet still delivers the familiar feeling of swashbuckling adventure that many viewers have grown accustomed to experiencing. Overall, this movie provides an energetic and enjoyable viewing experience even if its inspiration lies elsewhere.
Sinbad’s motley group of sailors who accompany him on his quest are wonderfully animated and entertaining to watch, including wise old man Luca and surly weapon-hoarder Jed; Jin and Li (two Asian shipmates who like gambling); Chum and Grum who seem there mainly as extra bodies to fill out numbers; Chum and Grum also add something different: two other characters just for variety’s sake.
The only major drawback in this movie is that its attempts at romance and humor don’t always work out; its storyline depicting muscular female allies competing with seductive pirates for Sinbad’s attention is uninspired, while Sinbad is torn between Proteus and Marina seems contrived and forced. Still, however, this film makes an enjoyable choice for children of all ages as an entry into his canon of movies.