Hey howdy hey! Hold on tight, it’s getting a little adventurous in this week’s vintage Disney roundup. We’re heading into the globe-trotting world of The Rescuers, where courage and friendship comes in the smallest packages.
Released in 1977, The Rescuers arrived during a rebuilding era for Disney animation, following a string of films that helped define the studio after the passing of Walt Disney. Based on the books by Margery Sharp, the film introduced audiences to the Rescue Aid Society, an international network of mice dedicated to helping those in need.
The story centers around the unlikely duo of Miss Bianca and Bernard, who set out on a mission to save a young orphan named Penny from the clutches of Madame Medusa (an iconic Disney villain in her own right).
— Concept art of Mr. Snoops and Medusa, by Disney Animator Milt Kahl
The voice cast featured Eva Gabor as the elegant and fearless Bianca (who also voiced Duchess in 1970’s The Aristocats), and Bob Newhart as the cautious and kindhearted Bernard. Their chemistry gives the film much of its charm, with some genuinely sweet moments combined with the humor that comes with being two small mice in a big world.
“Through storm and rain and dark of night, never fail to do what’s right.”
The pair returned in 1990’s The Rescuers Down Under, a sequel that took their mission to the Australian Outback. This also marked a major milestone as Disney’s first feature-length animated sequel created specifically for theaters!
While it may not always get the same spotlight as other Disney classics, The Rescuers became one of Disney’s biggest successes for its time, and helped revive the animation studio during a challenging period. In fact, the film’s huge success convinced executives to NOT shut down the animation department. Talk about rescuing!
Over the years, it’s built a loyal following, with its characters and message continuing to resonate… and occasionally pop up in vintage-inspired merchandise finds. Like a diamond hidden inside a teddy bear, ya know?
Our first feature is the rarest for today: a handmade mirror featuring character art from the film, including Bianca, Bernard, Orville, Penny and her teddy, and even Rufus! The back stamp confirms it was made in England by Cosalt Exports, “by kind permission of Walt Disney Productions”. There are a few other designs available online, but this one is a great price and makes for a fun statement piece!
Available HERE | $100
There’s just something about plush dolls from the 1970s. The oversized eyes, often finished with colorful felt, give them more of a handmade look. This pair of Miss Bianca and Bernard plush, released by Walt Disney Productions, are a great example. Dating back to around 1978, they’ve held up remarkably well and are a direct result of the popularity of The Rescuers at the time.
Available HERE | $44
Another pair, another material! These vintage Enesco figurines add just the right Disney touch to any collector’s shelf.
Available HERE | $62.99
Check out this vintage pin set of miniature icons from The Rescuers! Originally released in 1999, they feature tiny designs of Bernard, Bianca, Orville, Evinrude, and the film’s logo.
Available HERE | $20
Finally, we have one of my personal favorite vintage Disney things to collect: a metal lunchbox. Each side features beautiful artwork straight from the films we love. The wear on these give them more personality, especially if you can find one with a name scribbled inside! These are great storage containers which double as a fun display piece on a shelf, or used as a statement purse for a quirky outfit. I didn’t know this Rescuers one even existed before this week, so now it’s on my wishlist!
Available HERE | $49.50
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