In the world of animated feature films, Don Bluth has left an indelible mark. From his work on movies like The Secret of NIMH and An American Tail to his collaborations with industry heavyweights like Steven Spielberg, Bluth has captivated audiences with his storytelling prowess and unique animation style. But did you know that there's a hidden story behind one of Bluth's most beloved movies, The Land Before Time?
During a panel discussion at Mega-Con, Don Bluth reminisced about his experience working on The Land Before Time and the unexpected intervention by Steven Spielberg. Bluth revealed that Spielberg found certain scenes in the film to be too scary for young viewers, leading him to make the decision to remove and destroy them. This move was motivated by Spielberg's desire to prevent children from getting too frightened and upset while watching the movie.
Bluth admitted that he and his team had intentionally tried to create moments of tension and fear in The Land Before Time because they believed that every good story needed a formidable villain and a scare that would resonate with audiences. However, Spielberg felt that some of these scenes crossed the line and would leave children in tears, ultimately leading to their removal from the film.
The scenes in question were specifically related to a particularly menacing Tyrannosaur, which became slightly less intimidating after Spielberg's edit. Although the decision was made to appease worried parents, Bluth couldn't help but express disappointment. The scenes were not only scrapped but also destroyed, which meant they would never be seen again.
Bluth highlighted his sorrow over this loss, mentioning that the process of creating animated films is a labor of love. Each scene, sketch, and animation is like a precious creation, something that the artists pour their hearts into. To have a piece of their work destroyed, especially after bringing it to life with color and motion, was truly disheartening.
The conversation surrounding what is suitable for children's entertainment has evolved over the years. In modern times, there is a tendency to avoid tapping into fears and traumatic moments in movies and TV shows aimed at young audiences. However, in the past, many esteemed children's authors and filmmakers did not shy away from including dark and challenging elements in their stories.
Disney's The Black Cauldron is a prime example of a film that faced criticism for its horror-oriented narrative, featuring undead characters, witches, and demons. This darker tone caused a setback for the studio until it made a triumphant comeback with The Little Mermaid. Yet, other films like Jim Henson's The Dark Crystal, Roald Dahl's The Witches, and the Wizard of Oz sequel Return to Oz embraced moments that could give children nightmares, as it was the intention of their creators. Similarly, animated movies such as The Brave Little Toaster, Coraline, and Pinocchio explore themes and scenes that can leave a lasting impact on young minds.
Don Bluth's comments shed light on a timeless debate about the balance between light and dark in children's entertainment. While Spielberg's decision to remove and destroy the scarier scenes from The Land Before Time may have protected young viewers from potential distress, it also showcased the importance of including moments of tension and fear in storytelling. Bluth's movies, with their darker undertones, offer a refreshing departure from the typically lighthearted fare associated with Disney and Spielberg, striking a harmonious balance that can engage and captivate audiences of all ages.
Today, The Land Before Time remains a beloved classic that continues to resonate with both children and adults. While we may never get to witness the chilling scenes that were lost, the enduring magic and enduring themes of friendship and resilience still shine through in this iconic animated adventure.
For those who wish to experience the wonder of The Land Before Time, the film is available to rent on Apple TV+.
