86 Years Ago Today, a Disney Classic Based on 1883 Novel Was Released
86 Years Ago Today, a Disney Classic Based on 1883 Novel Was Released
Madz DizonTue, February 24, 2026 at 1:10 AM UTC
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Walt Disney released its second full-length animated feature, Pinocchio, on Feb. 23, 1940, based on Carlo Collodi’s 1883 Italian novel The Adventures of Pinocchio.
Following the monumental success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, expectations were sky-high. Yet, Disney’s ambitious adaptation proved that animation could transcend mere entertainment, blending artistry and moral lessons into one unforgettable cinematic experience.
The story follows Pinocchio (voiced by Dickie Jones), a wooden puppet magically brought to life, who dreams of becoming a real boy. Guided by his conscience, Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards), Pinocchio faces a series of moral trials that explore honesty, courage and selflessness.
Pinocchio, lobbycard, from left: Figaro, Cleo the Fish, Jiminy Cricket, , 1940.Photo by LMPC via Getty Images (Photo by LMPC via Getty Images)
From evading the scheming fox Honest John (Walter Catlett) to navigating the perils of Pleasure Island and the belly of Monstro the whale, the adventures are thrilling and, at times, dark, proving Disney’s willingness to tackle mature themes in children’s storytelling.
Every character pops in vibrant Technicolor: Pinocchio’s bright blue bow-tie, Jiminy Cricket’s dapper suit, Cleo the goldfish’s ruby-red lips, and the Blue Fairy’s ethereal glow.
Despite critical acclaim, Pinocchio struggled at the box office due to its $2.5 million budget and the outbreak of World War II, which limited international markets. However, re-releases after 1945 helped the film become profitable, and it now ranks among Disney’s greatest successes.
The movie made history at the 1941 Academy Awards, winning Best Original Score and Best Original Song for “When You Wish Upon a Star,” a tune that has become synonymous with Disney itself.
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Over 86 years later, Pinocchio holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 99 on Metacritic, cementing its status as a cinematic masterpiece.
Pinocchio’s Lasting Influence in Disney Parks
The magic of Pinocchio extends beyond the silver screen. In 1983, Disneyland’s Fantasyland introduced Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, a dark ride depicting key scenes from the film, including Stromboli’s puppet show and Monstro’s terrifying chase.
According to Guessing Headlights, the attraction also inspired Pinocchio-themed restaurants and shops in Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney World, and Shanghai Disneyland, ensuring that each generation experiences the story firsthand.
Pinocchio is more than a story about a puppet wishing to be real. It’s a technical marvel, a tale of moral growth and a piece of cinematic history that proves animation can evoke deep emotion and wonder.
As Disney celebrates its 86th anniversary, fans worldwide continue to marvel at how a small wooden puppet could leave such a massive, enduring impact.
Related: Disney 'Lion King' Legend Dead at 76
This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
