Gulliver's Travels

19391h 16m Directed by Dave Fleischer
6.2
(130 votes)
AnimationFamilyActionAdventure

Overview

Gulliver washes ashore on Lilliput and attempts to prevent war between that tiny kingdom and its equally-miniscule rival, Blefiscu, as well as smooth the way for the romance between the Princess and Prince of the opposing lands. In this he is alternately aided and hampered by the Lilliputian town crier and general fussbudget, Gabby. A life-threatening situation develops when the bumbling trio of Blefiscu spies, Sneak, Snoop, and Snitch, manage to steal Gulliver's pistol.

Gulliver's Travels

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CAST

Lanny Ross
Lanny Ross
Prince David (singing voice)
Sam Parker
Gulliver (voice)
Pinto Colvig
Pinto Colvig
Gabby (voice) (uncredited)
Jack Mercer
Jack Mercer
King Little (voice) (uncredited)
Cal Howard
Prince David (voice)
Tedd Pierce
Tedd Pierce
King Bombo (voice)
Livonia Warren
Princess Glory (voice)
Jessica Dragonette
Jessica Dragonette
Princess Glory (singing voice)
Max Smith
Singer (voice) (uncredited)
Gus Wicke
Various (voice) (uncredited)

A Timeless yet Flawed Animated Adventure: Revisiting the 1939 "Gulliver's Travels"

WatchListHQSep 10, 2025
The 1939 animated film "Gulliver's Travels" is a fascinating relic of a bygone era, offering a unique blend of action, adventure, and family-friendly entertainment. Based on the classic novel by Jonathan Swift, the movie brings to life the fantastical world of Lilliput and its tiny inhabitants, with the titular character Gulliver finding himself at the center of a brewing conflict between the miniature kingdoms of Lilliput and Blefiscu. The film's animation, while dated by today's standards, still boasts a certain charm, with intricate details and a distinct visual style that sets it apart from other animated features of the time.

One of the standout aspects of "Gulliver's Travels" is its ability to balance lighthearted humor with more serious themes, such as the dangers of war and the importance of diplomacy. The character of Gabby, the Lilliputian town crier, provides much of the comedic relief, with his fast-talking antics and general fussiness adding a layer of humor to the proceedings. However, the film's pacing can be somewhat uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed or disjointed. Additionally, the storyline is not without its flaws, with some characters feeling underdeveloped or one-dimensional. The Blefiscu spies, Sneak, Snoop, and Snitch, are a prime example of this, serving as more of a plot device than fully fleshed-out characters.

Despite these limitations, "Gulliver's Travels" remains a captivating and entertaining film that is sure to delight both children and adults. The movie's themes of cooperation, understanding, and the power of friendship are timeless and well-worth exploring, even if the execution is not always flawless. The film's historical significance also cannot be overstated, as it represents one of the earliest feature-length animated films produced in the United States. While it may not be as polished or sophisticated as modern animated features, "Gulliver's Travels" is a charming and nostalgic throwback that is worth watching for its unique blend of adventure, humor, and heart. With its richly detailed world and memorable characters, this 1939 classic is a must-see for animation enthusiasts and fans of classic literature alike.

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