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Rating:  - this is the better movie - no contest
This 1963 version of Incredible Journey is so much better than the 1990's version it's hard to know where to start. In the first place, the animals in this movie are the breeds and characters of the book. With all due respect to the talents of M. J. Fox, D. Ameche and S. Struthers (the voices in the newer movie), one of the great joys of the original is that the only voice for most of the movie is Rex Allen's voice over. The animals tell the story here, just as they do in the book, and they do it by their actions, not words.
The story unfolds as the author designed it to, letting the incredible scenery of Canada play its role. The pets (Tao, Luath and Bodger) take off on their journey in search of the home they love and need and they walk, swim and fight their way every step of the way. The ending of this movie is the only happy movie that has ever made me cry (and still does) because I once had the amazing joy of knowing the kind of love between human and pet, between friends, that's shown here. But even if you haven't, track down this movie, sit back, and let the story unfold at its own wonderful pace.
Could be a little scary for very young children. The bear didn't bother me as much as the cat in the river did.
Rating: - Terrific film
The cinematography and filming of the "Incredible Journey" is spectacular. The remote Canadian scenery is wonderfully displayed and becomes the perfect setting for the three pets as they make their way across the country in search of their owners.
This first version is a classic, possessing a charm that the 90's release lacks. The animals that Disney chose in 1963 are perfect in their roles, and it is easy to become immersed with their purpose. Their adventures bind them together, and their love and loyalty are unquestionable. It was a wise move to have only a narrator (rather than voices for each animal)... it forces the viewer to understand the animals on a much deeper level, deeper than any human words can interpret or express.
Today, people may find this movie slow-moving and boring. However, I believe that this is because we are continually bombarded by split-second action in today's shows and fast-talking commercials... therefore, anything that tries to slow life down and make a person truly THINK for a bit just doesn't sink in for some people, sadly.
This movie is recommended for all ages.
Rating:  - Incredible Animals
I was lucky enough to see this with my whole family when it was first released. I bought the VHS copy since the DVD is not available yet. I will give Disney a little credit though, they are finally starting to release some of their classic movies on DVD. I miss the days of Disney movies drawing the whole family to the theater for wholesome entertainment. It is rare that they do that in this age of dysfunctional families and kids with attitude to others. Somewhere along the line they got the idea that kids think this makes them look cool. Well the first time they get out on their own and they mouth off like that to the wrong person they find out how uncool that can be.
This movie is so far above the remake it makes you wonder how Disney's staff keep their jobs. If you want a movie you can let the whole family watch and enjoy together be sure to get this one. The scenery, acting, and the animals themselves are great. When I was a kid we got a Siamese and named him Tao because of this movie. The quality of this VHS is good. I look forward to the DVD release for better picture and sound and hopefully some extras. If you have seen the remake I'm sure you will be pleasantly surprised when you see this version. The remake tried to hard to be funny and it just isn't.
Rating:  - One of the more boring Disney films I've ever seen.
I am a big Disney film fan, animated or live-action. But this film, 1963's "The Incredible Journey" just didn't cut it. During most of the film, there is almost no dialogue except for a boring narration of the story by Rex Allen. I liked the remake, 1993's "Homeward Bound", much better because it had human actors doing the voices of the animals. They gave the story a lot more spark, spice, action, and adventure, as well as a lot of humor. I believe that an adventure story with animals needs a lot of action and humor, especially in the case of "The Incredible Journey". Unfortunately, this 1963 Disney adventure has virtually no action or humor or even adventure; it's pretty much an extended version of Walt Disney's True-Life nature documentaries he made during the 1950's.
Rating: - Ten Thousand Times Better Than The Remake
This earlier version of the movie is straightforward storytelling, without any rediculous attitude. (I'm wagering that 90% of the reason the new Disney Movie, "Treasure Planet" failed is because of the absolutely hideous haircut the lead character wears.) Even my six year old loved this video. The nature scenery is spectacular. I hate the fact that the inferior updated version of this movie can be found on DVD but this classic version is only on video. Some of the people currently making the decisions at Disney ought to be replaced.
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