Lexi Hight

Written by Lexi Hight

Modified & Updated: 09 May 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

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Source: Amazon.com

An American Tail is a classic animated film that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. Released in 1986, this beloved movie tells the story of a courageous little mouse named Fievel who embarks on a journey to find his family after they get separated during their immigration to America. The film, directed by Don Bluth and produced by Steven Spielberg, combines adventure, humor, and heartfelt moments to create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. With its memorable characters and timeless themes of hope, friendship, and perseverance, An American Tail continues to be a cherished favorite among fans of all ages. In this article, we will delve into 30 fascinating facts about this charming film that will make you appreciate it even more. So, grab some popcorn and join us on a journey into the world of An American Tail!

Key Takeaways:

  • An American Tail, released in 1986, tells the heartwarming story of Fievel Mousekewitz’s immigrant journey, showcasing the power of family, resilience, and the timeless magic of storytelling.
  • The film’s captivating animation, memorable characters, and universal themes continue to inspire audiences of all ages, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of animated cinema.
Table of Contents

An American Tail was released in 1986

An American Tail, directed by Don Bluth, was released in 1986 and quickly became a beloved animated film.

It was produced by Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg, the renowned filmmaker, served as the executive producer of An American Tail, adding his touch of magic to the film.

The movie tells the story of a young mouse named Fievel Mousekewitz

An American Tail revolves around the adventures of Fievel Mousekewitz, a brave little mouse who journeys from Russia to America in search of his family.

It explores the theme of immigration

An American Tail tackles the theme of immigration, highlighting the challenges and hopes of immigrant families during the late 19th century.

Fievel Mousekewitz is voiced by Phillip Glasser

The voice behind the courageous Fievel Mousekewitz is Phillip Glasser, who brought the character to life with his voice acting talents.

An American Tail was a box office success

The movie was a box office hit, grossing over $47 million in the United States and Canada during its initial release.

It was the highest-grossing non-Disney animated film at the time

An American Tail held the honor of being the highest-grossing non-Disney animated film until the release of The Land Before Time, another Don Bluth film.

The film features the memorable song “Somewhere Out There”

One of the most unforgettable aspects of An American Tail is the beautiful song “Somewhere Out There,” sung by the characters Fievel and his sister Tanya.

“Somewhere Out There” was nominated for an Academy Award

The heartwarming song “Somewhere Out There” received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, further solidifying its impact and popularity.

An American Tail spawned several sequels

The success of the first film led to the creation of four sequels: An American Tail: Fievel Goes West, An American Tail: The Treasure of Manhattan Island, An American Tail: The Mystery of the Night Monster, and Fievel’s American Tails, a television series.

The character Tiger the cat provides comic relief

Tiger, a lovable and bumbling cat, brings comic relief to the movie with his hilarious antics and unexpected friendship with Fievel.

It explores the importance of family

An American Tail emphasizes the importance of family bonds and the enduring love and support that family provides, even in the face of adversity.

Don Bluth left Disney to start his own animation studio

Don Bluth, the director of An American Tail, left Disney to establish his own animation studio, focusing on creating films with a unique and distinct style.

An American Tail depicts the harsh reality of immigrant life

Through the struggles faced by the Mousekewitz family, the film portrays the hardships that immigrants often encountered in their pursuit of the American Dream.

It was one of the first animated films to deal with such heavy subject matter

An American Tail broke new ground by addressing serious themes and complex social issues within the context of an animated film, paving the way for future animated movies to explore deeper themes.

The movie showcases stunning animation

An American Tail features visually stunning animation, with attention to detail that captivates audiences and brings the characters and settings to life.

It explores the concept of unity

Throughout the film, An American Tail teaches the value of unity and coming together, emphasizing the strength that can be found in a community working towards a common goal.

An American Tail was inspired by the experiences of Steven Spielberg’s grandparents

Steven Spielberg drew inspiration from the stories of his immigrant grandparents when conceptualizing and developing the film, adding a personal touch to the story.

It highlights the resilience of the immigrant spirit

An American Tail showcases the resilience and determination of immigrants, emphasizing their ability to overcome challenges and build a better future for themselves and their families.

The film received critical acclaim

An American Tail received positive reviews from critics, who praised its heartfelt story, memorable characters, and emotional impact.

An American Tail was a groundbreaking film for its time

The movie broke new ground by tackling important social issues while still being accessible and enjoyable for audiences of all ages.

It sparked a resurgence in animated films

An American Tail played a significant role in rekindling the public’s interest in animated films, leading to a wave of successful animated features in the late 1980s and 1990s.

The film has a timeless quality

An American Tail’s themes and messages continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by viewers of all generations.

An American Tail showcases the power of dreams

The film inspires viewers to follow their dreams, as Fievel’s unwavering determination to reunite with his family drives the narrative and serves as a powerful motivator.

It features memorable and endearing characters

From Fievel Mousekewitz to Tiger the cat, An American Tail boasts a cast of charming and lovable characters that have become iconic in the world of animated films.

The movie introduced the character Tony Toponi

An American Tail introduced audiences to Tony Toponi, a street-smart mouse who befriends Fievel and becomes a pivotal character in the film’s storyline.

An American Tail is a heartwarming tale for all ages

With its universal themes, compelling story, and memorable music, An American Tail is a film that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages, from children to adults.

The film captures the spirit of hope

An American Tail instills a sense of hope and optimism in its audience, reminding viewers that even in the face of adversity, there is always a glimmer of hope.

An American Tail has left a lasting legacy

Decades after its release, An American Tail continues to be celebrated as a beloved animated film that has left an indelible mark on the genre.

It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling

An American Tail’s enduring popularity and cultural impact serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to touch hearts and inspire generations.

The Timeless Magic of An American Tail

An American Tail, a film brimming with heart, soul, and a touch of nostalgia, remains a cherished classic in the world of animated cinema. With its captivating story, endearing characters, and powerful themes, the movie continues to enchant audiences of all ages. The journey of Fievel Mousekewitz, the young and courageous protagonist, resonates with viewers as he navigates the challenges and triumphs of immigrant life in America.

From the very beginning, An American Tail captured the hearts of audiences, garnering critical acclaim and becoming a box office success. It not only broke new ground by addressing weighty themes within the context of an animated film but also paved the way for a resurgence in the popularity of animated features.

The film’s impact extends beyond its initial release. Its timeless quality, timeless emphasizes the importance of family, the resilience of the immigrant spirit, and the power of dreams. Through its stunning animation, memorable characters, and a heartfelt soundtrack that includes the Academy Award-nominated song “Somewhere Out There,” An American Tail continues to captivate and inspire.

As we celebrate the 30 facts about the movie An American Tail, we are reminded of the film’s enduring legacy and the lasting impression it has left on audiences worldwide. Whether it is your first time experiencing the film or revisiting it after many years, An American Tail will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who believe in the magic of storytelling.

Conclusion

An American Tail is a beloved animated film that continues to captivate audiences with its heartfelt story and memorable characters. This movie, directed by Don Bluth, tells the tale of a young Russian mouse named Fievel who journeys to America with his family in search of a better life. Through its beautiful animation, catchy music, and poignant themes, An American Tail has stood the test of time and remains a classic in the world of animated cinema. Whether you’re a fan of adventure, family, or animal films, this movie is sure to leave a lasting impression.

FAQs

Q: When was An American Tail released?

A: An American Tail was released on November 21, 1986.

Q: Who directed An American Tail?

A: The movie was directed by Don Bluth.

Q: What is the storyline of An American Tail?

A: The movie follows the journey of a young mouse named Fievel and his family as they immigrate to America from Russia in search of a better life.

Q: Who are the main characters in An American Tail?

A: The main characters include Fievel Mousekewitz, his family members – Papa, Mama, Tanya, and Yasha – and his new friends such as Tony Toponi and Bridget.

Q: Is An American Tail a musical?

A: Yes, the movie features several memorable songs, including “Somewhere Out There,” which became a hit and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Q: Are there any sequels to An American Tail?

A: Yes, there are three sequels: An American Tail: Fievel Goes West (1991), An American Tail: The Treasure of Manhattan Island (1998), and An American Tail: The Mystery of the Night Monster (1999).

Q: What is the significance of the movie’s title?

A: The title “An American Tail” is a play on words, referring to the famous American expression “A tall tale” while also hinting at Fievel’s small size and his journey to a new homeland.

Q: What are some notable themes explored in An American Tail?

A: The movie explores themes of hope, family, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream. It also touches on the challenges faced by immigrants as they adapt to a new culture.

Q: Did An American Tail receive any awards?

A: Yes, the film received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Q: Is An American Tail suitable for children?

A: Yes, the movie is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. It offers entertainment and valuable life lessons in an accessible and engaging way.

If you enjoyed learning about "An American Tail," don't miss exploring more captivating facts surrounding Fievel's continued adventures in the Wild West. Uncover behind-the-scenes stories, memorable moments, and heartwarming lessons that make this beloved sequel a must-watch for fans of all ages.

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