"The Island at the Top of the World" is a fantasy-adventure film produced by Walt Disney Productions. Released on December 20, 1974, the movie was directed by Robert Stevenson. It is based on the novel "The Lost Ones" by Ian Cameron.
Synopsis:
Set in the year 1907, the story follows a British archaeologist named Sir Anthony Ross who organizes an expedition to the Arctic to search for his missing son, Donald.
Believing his son might be searching for the legendary lost island of Astragard, Ross hires Captain Brieux, a French aeronaut, to take him to the Arctic in his advanced airship, the Hyperion. Joined by an Eskimo named Oomiak and Professor John Ivarsson, the team embarks on a perilous journey.
They eventually discover a hidden island where a lost Viking civilization exists, untouched by time. As they navigate the challenges of this new world and its inhabitants, the team must also find Donald and make their way back home.
Cast and Characters:
- Donald Sinden as Sir Anthony Ross: A determined British archaeologist searching for his lost son in the Arctic.
- David Hartman as Captain Brieux: A French aeronaut who pilots the Hyperion and aids Ross in his quest.
- Jacques Marin as Professor John Ivarsson: An archaeologist and expert on Norse history who joins the expedition.
- Mako as Oomiak: An Eskimo who assists the team with his knowledge of the Arctic region.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
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Australia (AU):
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United Kingdom (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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- Free: None
France (FR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
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Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: Disney Plus
- Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube
- Free: None
Production Details:
- Director: Robert Stevenson
- Producers: Winston Hibler
- Screenplay Writers: John Whedon, based on the novel "The Lost Ones" by Ian Cameron
- Filming Locations: The movie was filmed in various locations, including Norway and the United States. The Arctic landscapes and the depiction of the lost Viking civilization posed challenges in terms of set design and visual effects.
- Budget and Box Office Performance: Specific figures for the budget and box office returns are not widely reported, but the film was not a major commercial success upon its release.
Reception and Awards:
- Critical Reception: The film received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its visual effects and adventurous spirit, others felt it lacked depth and originality.
- Audience Reception: Over the years, "The Island at the Top of the World" has gained a cult following among Disney enthusiasts and fans of classic adventure films.
- Awards and Nominations: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Art Direction.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Airship Design: The design of the Hyperion was inspired by real-life airships from the early 20th century, but with a touch of steampunk flair.
- Lost Viking Civilization: The concept of a lost Viking civilization in the Arctic is purely fictional, but it draws inspiration from real Norse sagas and exploration tales.
- Disney Theme Park: Elements from the film were once featured in a Disneyland attraction called "Adventure Thru Inner Space."
In conclusion, "The Island at the Top of the World" is a classic Disney adventure that transports audiences to a fantastical world of lost civilizations and daring expeditions. While it may not be among Disney's most celebrated films, it remains a nostalgic favorite for many.