The Old Mill
The Old Mill

The Old Mill

1937Movie9 minEnglish

Night in an old mill is dramatically depicted in this Oscar-winning short in which the frightened occupants, including birds, timid mice, owls, and other creatures try to stay safe and dry as a storm approaches. As the thunderstorm worsens, the mill wheel begins to turn and the whole mill threatens to blow apart until at last the storm subsides.

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Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Jack KinneyGenres: Animation, Short, Family, Fantasy

Plot Summary

In this animated short, a violent storm threatens the peaceful inhabitants of an old mill. A family of ducks, a mother hen and her chicks, and a wise old owl all face peril as the storm rages. They must find shelter and work together to survive the destructive forces of nature.

Critical Reception

Praised for its stunning animation and atmospheric storytelling, 'The Old Mill' is considered a technical marvel for its time. It effectively demonstrated Disney's advancements in multiplane camera technology, creating a sense of depth and realism previously unseen in animation. Critics and audiences alike lauded its beautiful visual design and emotional resonance.

What Reviewers Say

  • A visually breathtaking and technically groundbreaking animated short.
  • Showcases Disney's innovative use of the multiplane camera to create depth and atmosphere.
  • A charming and engaging story of overcoming adversity through community.

Google audience: Audiences admire the film's beautiful animation and timeless story of nature and community.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Academy Award for Best Short Subject (Cartoons) in 1937.

Fun Fact

This short was Walt Disney's first major production to fully utilize the multiplane camera, which allowed animators to create a sense of depth and dimension by filming on different levels of glass.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

An old and dilapidated windmill sets the scene for this engaging animation depicting all that goes on amongst the wildlife that have taken over from the long departed humans. Nesting birds share a juicy worm; cooing doves and a wise old owl...