On this day July 2, 1986, The Great Mouse Detective premiered in theaters and marked a turning point for Walt Disney Animation during a time of creative transition. With a budget of 14 million dollars and a talented team of directors including Ron Clements, Burny Mattinson, Dave Michener, and John Musker, the film brought a fresh sense of energy to Disney’s animated storytelling.
Set in Victorian London, the film followed Basil of Baker Street, a brilliant mouse detective modeled after Sherlock Holmes. Voiced by Barrie Ingham, Basil sets out to stop the evil Professor Ratigan, played with theatrical flair by Vincent Price. The plot mixed mystery, adventure, and suspense while maintaining the charm expected from a Disney production.
The Great Mouse Detective earned 38.7 million dollars at the box office and became a modest hit that helped restore confidence in Disney’s animation department. It is often credited with helping to pave the way for the late 80s and early 90s Disney Renaissance.
80s insight: Before The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, Disney was quietly rebuilding its magic. The Great Mouse Detective was a key step in that comeback, showing that the studio still had the heart and imagination to craft memorable animated adventures.
Set in Victorian London, the film followed Basil of Baker Street, a brilliant mouse detective modeled after Sherlock Holmes. Voiced by Barrie Ingham, Basil sets out to stop the evil Professor Ratigan, played with theatrical flair by Vincent Price. The plot mixed mystery, adventure, and suspense while maintaining the charm expected from a Disney production.
The Great Mouse Detective earned 38.7 million dollars at the box office and became a modest hit that helped restore confidence in Disney’s animation department. It is often credited with helping to pave the way for the late 80s and early 90s Disney Renaissance.
80s insight: Before The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, Disney was quietly rebuilding its magic. The Great Mouse Detective was a key step in that comeback, showing that the studio still had the heart and imagination to craft memorable animated adventures.
