Thru the Mirror

In this enchanting 1936 Disney animated short film, 'Thru the Mirror,' Mickey Mouse embarks on a fantastical journey after discovering the magical world of Lewis Carroll's beloved classic, 'Alice in Wonderland.' The story unfolds as Mickey, entranced by the whimsical tale, falls asleep while reading the book. His vivid imagination is transported to a world within the mirror, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. As Mickey enters this fantastical realm, he finds himself surrounded by anthropomorphic furniture, each with its own distinct personality. A grand piano serves as the town square, while a set of stairs functions as a bustling marketplace. The furniture, now living entities, are going about their daily lives, seemingly unaware of the sudden arrival of this bewildered mouse. The charming scene is a testament to the creativity and imagination that Disney Animation brings to the table. Mickey's curiosity gets the better of him, and he begins to explore this strange new world. He encounters an elegant sofa, which he mistakes for a fashionable hat, much to the amusement of the other furniture. This lighthearted moment sets the tone for the rest of the film, showcasing Mickey's wit and adaptability as he navigates this fantastical world. The animation is nothing short of stunning, with detailed backgrounds and intricate character designs that transport viewers to a world of wonder. As Mickey continues to explore the world within the mirror, he becomes fascinated with the concept of the 'red rose.' In Carroll's 'Alice in Wonderland,' the red rose is a symbol of love and passion. The furniture in the mirror's world seems to share this fascination, with many admiring the beauty and allure of the red rose. Mickey's own infatuation with the rose grows, leading him to participate in a series of whimsical and fantastical dances with the furniture. The film's climax reaches a delightful pinnacle as Mickey participates in a grand masquerade ball, with the furniture dressed in elegant attire, adorned with intricate masks and elaborate headdresses. Mickey, now dressed in a dashing black mask, dances with the rose, which is personified by a beautiful, elegant woman. The scene is pure magic, with its beautiful animation, elegant music, and charming choreography. However, as the night wears on, the spell of the masquerade ball begins to break. The furniture, it seems, are mere reflections of the real world. As Mickey dances, the mirror begins to distort and ripple, threatening to extinguish the magic of the world within. The furniture begin to fade away, and Mickey finds himself back in his own world, sitting next to the bed where he fell asleep while reading 'Alice in Wonderland.' In 'Thru the Mirror,' Disney brings the fantastical world of Lewis Carroll to life, reimagining the surreal landscape and characters of 'Alice in Wonderland' through the lens of Mickey Mouse's imagination. The film is a charming and whimsical adventure, with stunning animation and beautiful music, showcasing the boundless creativity and imagination that is the hallmark of Disney's most beloved classics.