First off, you never expect a direct to video movie to be as good as the first two movies that went theatrical. I was really looking forward to this film, ever since I bought the two classic masterpieces during their re-release on video. I saw the trailer, and it looked like fun. Tell you the truth, The Treasure of Manhattan Island plays out more like an animated TV show than a movie. It's not nearly as kind and gentle hearted as the first two...it's not as fun either. As for the music, it's not really top notch either. 2 of them are completely disposable and the other one, I dunno the name, works perfectly in a scene featuring Fievel and his new found friend and their ride in a water bucket supported by string. This is by far the best part of the film, and the only part in this 3rd film that really resembles true American Tail magic. All in all, it's a good film, just a huge step down from the first two. If they worked more on a better script and if it had more of a movie feel to it and not a TV animated show, it would've been better. Throw in more quality songs (there were only 3 songs in this film)and that also would've made it better. More magic was needed, and here for the most part it was lacking....though Dom Deluise is still great with his tiny role. Worth watching, just be aware of the flaws
An American Tail: The Treasure of Manhattan Island
(1998 Video)
Not as good as the first two
6 July 2000