Written by Bonita Pollock
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Oliver and Company is a beloved animated film that holds a special place in the hearts of many moviegoers. Released in 1988, this Disney classic tells the story of a charismatic ginger kitten named Oliver who finds himself in the bustling streets of New York City.
With its catchy musical numbers, memorable characters, and heartwarming message, Oliver and Company has become a timeless favorite for both children and adults alike. In this article, we will delve into 35 fascinating facts about this iconic movie, from its production process to the behind-the-scenes tidbits that make it truly unique.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan of Oliver and Company or just curious about its legacy, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the intriguing world of this animated gem.
Key Takeaways:
- “Oliver and Company” is a classic Disney movie released in 1988, featuring a lovable cat named Oliver and his adventures in New York City. It’s a heartwarming tale of friendship, catchy songs, and the importance of finding a place to belong.
- The movie is based on the novel “Oliver Twist” and showcases the beauty of adopting rescue animals. It’s a timeless story that teaches us about loyalty, second chances, and the power of community, all set against the backdrop of the vibrant streets of New York City.
Oliver and Company was released in 1988 and is an animated musical film.
Oliver and Company is a delightful movie that captivated audiences with its catchy songs and heartwarming story. It combines elements of comedy, adventure, and friendship, making it a perfect film for viewers of all ages.
The movie is loosely based on Charles Dickens’ novel, Oliver Twist.
Director George Scribner took inspiration from the classic story of Oliver Twist and gave it a modern twist by setting it in contemporary New York City. This unique blend of old and new creates a captivating and relatable story for the audience.
Oliver, the main character, is an adorable orange tabby cat.
Oliver, a stray kitten, is the charming protagonist of the movie. His journey from the streets of New York to finding a loving family touches the hearts of viewers and teaches valuable lessons about loyalty and belonging.
Dodger, a street-smart dog, befriends Oliver and introduces him to the world of thieving.
Dodger, voiced by the talented Billy Joel, adds a touch of excitement and adventure to the story. His catchy musical numbers and confident personality make him a fan-favorite character.
Oliver and Company features an unforgettable soundtrack.
The movie’s soundtrack, composed by Barry Manilow, includes hit songs like “Why Should I Worry” and “Streets of Gold.” These tunes perfectly complement the film’s energetic and uplifting atmosphere.
Jenny, a young girl, becomes Oliver’s loving owner.
Jenny, voiced by Natalie Gregory, is the kind-hearted and compassionate girl who opens her heart and home to Oliver. Their bond highlights the importance of love and companionship.
The villainous character, Sykes, is voiced by Robert Loggia.
Sykes is a ruthless loan shark who brings an element of danger to the story. His menacing presence adds tension and pushes Oliver and his friends to new heights of bravery.
The movie showcases the dynamic and diverse streets of New York City.
Oliver and Company beautifully captures the essence of the bustling city, from Central Park to the iconic skyline. Its vibrant animation transports viewers to the heart of New York.
Georgette, a pampered but kind-hearted poodle, provides a touch of glamour.
Georgette, voiced by Bette Midler, brings both humor and elegance to the movie. Her dazzling personality and impressive vocal talent make her an unforgettable character.
The film’s animation style combines traditional hand-drawn elements with computer-generated techniques.
This blending of animation styles gives Oliver and Company a visually stunning look that still holds up today. The animation captures both the grittiness of the streets and the beauty of the characters and settings.
Oliver and Company was a commercial success, grossing over $74 million at the box office.
The film’s success cemented its place as a beloved classic and delighted audiences worldwide.
It received generally positive reviews from critics.
Critics praised the film’s catchy songs, engaging story, and memorable characters. It holds a special place in the hearts of many Disney fans.
Oliver and Company marked a significant milestone as the first Disney animated film set in contemporary times.
This shift in setting allowed for a fresh and modern take on the classic tale, appealing to a broader audience.
Whoopi Goldberg lent her voice to one of the film’s characters.
Goldberg brings her unique talent to the movie, adding depth and humor to her character’s portrayal.
Oliver and Company continues to inspire and entertain new generations of fans.
The film’s timeless message of friendship, bravery, and finding one’s place in the world ensures its enduring popularity.
The movie showcases the importance of community and sticking together during tough times.
Oliver and his newfound friends form a tight-knit group, teaching viewers the value of unity and support.
The film’s tagline is “The first Disney movie with attitude!”
The tagline perfectly encapsulates the movie’s modern and rebellious spirit, setting it apart from other Disney classics.
It features memorable side characters, such as Tito, Francis, and Einstein.
These lovable characters provide comic relief and contribute to the film’s overall charm.
Oliver and Company showcases the beauty of adopting rescue animals.
The movie promotes the importance of giving stray animals a chance and the unconditional love they can bring to our lives.
The film’s animation team drew inspiration from real-life locations in New York City.
They studied the city’s architecture and atmosphere to create an authentic and immersive experience for viewers.
Oliver and Company received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.
The film’s catchy tunes and memorable lyrics garnered recognition for its exceptional music.
The movie showcases the message that family can come in different forms.
Oliver finds a sense of belonging not only with Jenny but also with the group of misfits he meets along the way.
Oliver and Company was one of the last films to feature the involvement of Disney’s veteran animators.
As Disney transitioned to computer-generated animation, Oliver and Company marks a significant moment in the evolution of the animation studio.
The film’s emotional moments are balanced with humor and lightheartedness.
Oliver and Company strikes the perfect balance between heartfelt moments and fun-filled adventures, creating a well-rounded viewing experience.
The movie’s theme song, “Why Should I Worry,” became a hit on the Billboard charts.
The catchy tune performed by Billy Joel resonated with audiences and became a fan favorite.
Oliver and Company was the first film to be directed by George Scribner.
Scribner’s directorial debut added a fresh perspective to Disney’s lineup of animated films.
The film’s opening sequence features stunning graphics and a memorable chase scene.
Right from the start, Oliver and Company captivates viewers with its visually impressive animation and exciting action.
The movie was re-released on DVD and Blu-ray as part of Disney’s “Special Edition” collection.
This re-release allowed new generations to experience the magic of Oliver and Company and introduced bonus features for fans to enjoy.
The film’s voice cast includes a mix of established actors and rising stars.
The talented ensemble brings the characters to life, showcasing their remarkable vocal abilities.
Oliver and Company showcases the importance of second chances and redemption.
Several characters in the movie go through personal growth and transformation, emphasizing the power of forgiveness and starting anew.
The movie has become a cult classic among Disney enthusiasts.
Its unique story, memorable characters, and energetic music have contributed to its enduring popularity and devoted fanbase.
The film’s animation team faced challenges in creating the realistic movements of the animal characters.
They spent hours studying the natural behavior of cats and dogs to accurately portray their movements and expressions.
Oliver and Company was the last Disney film to be released under the guidance of Ron W. Miller.
Miller’s influence on the film reflects Disney’s commitment to creating entertaining and heartwarming stories.
The movie’s success led to the creation of an animated television series based on Oliver and his friends’ adventures.
The TV series further expanded the story and allowed fans to continue enjoying the world of Oliver and Company.
Oliver and Company remains a beloved film that holds a special place in the hearts of Disney fans worldwide.
Its timeless themes, memorable characters, and unforgettable music continue to captivate audiences to this day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oliver and Company is a classic animated film that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. With its memorable characters, catchy musical numbers, and timeless message of friendship and belonging, it continues to entertain and inspire viewers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of animation, music, or heartwarming stories, Oliver and Company is definitely a movie worth watching.
FAQs
Q: Who directed Oliver and Company?
A: Oliver and Company was directed by George Scribner.
Q: When was Oliver and Company released?
A: The film was released on November 18, 1988.
Q: Is Oliver and Company based on any book or real-life story?
A: No, Oliver and Company is an original story created for the screen.
Q: Who provided the voice for Oliver?
A: The voice of Oliver was provided by Joey Lawrence.
Q: What is the main theme of Oliver and Company?
A: The main theme of Oliver and Company is the importance of friendship and the search for belonging.
Q: Are there any memorable songs in the movie?
A: Yes, Oliver and Company features several memorable songs, including “Why Should I Worry?” and “Streets of Gold.”
Q: Did Oliver and Company receive any awards?
A: While the film was not a major awards contender, it received positive reviews and has gained a dedicated fanbase over the years.
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