Few bonds are as profound as that which exists between humans and dogs. Few relationships can equal the loyalty, love, and trust that exists between a dog and its person. Perhaps no story exemplifies this bond better than the real life story of Balto and his heroic team of fellow sled dogs. Inspired by Nome, Alaska's 1925 serum run, 1995's animated cult classic Balto relates a timeless tale of sacrifice, self-acceptance, and the eternal bond between human and canine. For viewing even the furry members of the family will love curl up with Balto.
The story begins with an elderly woman showing her granddaughter Central Park's statue of sled dog Balto. The woman then relates the story behind the statue, launching the film into an animated flashback which transports viewers to 1925 Nome Alaska. The city is eagerly awaiting try outs for the annual Iditarod race Since the local team led by arrogant thoroughbred Steele is heavily favored spectators are shocked when half-wolf stray Balto wins the race. Despite his skill, the city's residents distrust Balto because of his wild heritage and reject him from the team. He faces similar rejection from the local dogs with the exception of his crush, kind-hearted husky Jenna. When a diphtheria outbreak sweeps into Nome the young daughter of Jenna's owners becomes deathly ill. Weather conditions prevent supplies of antitoxin serum from reaching the isolated city, leaving the city's children at the mercy of a devastating epidemic. The only hope for transporting the serum is Steele and his team. When the team disappears in a storm, however, Balto finds himself in a race against time that no dog can win, but just maybe a wolf can.
Released in the midst of the so-called 'Disney Renaissance' Balto entered a market saturated with fairy tale characters on fantastic adventures. Rather than adhere to the trends of the time the film instead struck out on its own path, allowing it to stand out from its contemporaries decades later. Rather than a fairy tale kingdom filled with larger than life obstacles the film instead opts for a historical setting subject to real world struggles. In place of a quest to save a fictional world the film instead explores the horrors of epidemic diseases and the efforts of real people to combat them. As a result, the stakes of the story are all too real and devastatingly high. The film also sets itself apart by choosing to focus upon society's unsung heroes in the form of Balto and his team. Through its exploration of Balto's efforts to help the children of Nome the film recalls the work of first responders and pays apt tribute to them. The film's depiction of his struggles to accept his mixed heritage acts as a clever metaphor for real world prejudice without becoming heavy handed or lecturing viewers. The portrayal of his journey towards self-acceptance also lends complexity to his character while making him relatable to viewers. The depiction of the loyalty and selflessness of dogs is guaranteed to warm the heart of dog lovers and may even win over a few cat owners. For family entertainment that is truly a breed of its own follow the path of the lone wolf with Balto.
The film transports viewers to the snowy streets of 1920's Nome Alaska thanks to its stunning animation and excellent voice cast. The traditional animation brings the Alaskan wilderness to vivid life in all of its brutality and beauty. The character designs infuse each character with an emotion and expressiveness that is sure to endear them to viewers. The dazzling animation works in perfect tandem with the vocal performances. Juliette Brewer is cute but never cloying as Jenna's tomboy owner, Rosy. Phil Collins lends apt comedic support in dual roles as Balto's unlikely allies, hapless polar bears Muk and Luk. Bob Hoskins steals each scene in which he appears in his by turns witty and wise portrayal of Balto's best friend, expat Russian snow goose Boris. Jim Cummings perfectly captures the arrogance, callousness, and hidden insecurities of lead sled dog Steele. Bridget Fonda conveys girl next door charm, intelligence, and warmth as Balto's love interest, Jenna. Kevin Bacon once again proves that he is leading man material as he brings Balto's journey from underdog to heroic life.
At once a unique retelling of a historical event and a universal underdog story Balto is every bit as inspiring as its namesake. The script brings a fascinating piece of history to life while still offering enough humor, drama, and emotion to entertain audiences of all ages. The animation is never less than gorgeous as it recreates the beauty of Alaska and brings an ensemble cast of various species to vibrant life. The vocal performances imbue each member of the ensemble cast with a broad range of distinct distinct personalities. For adventure for the young and young at heart explore the Alaskan wilderness with Balto.
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