Movie Night spins ‘An American Tail’

The Northwest Montana History Museum’s next Movie Night at the Museum will present the 1986 animated classic “An American Tail” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22.

“There are no cats in America!” — or so believes the Mousekewitzes, a Russian-Jewish family of mice in 1880s Slovakia. So when their village is attacked by the dreaded felines, the family decides to high-”tail” it across the Atlantic to the cat-free Land of Opportunity. But when 7-year-old Fievel gets separated in New York City, he has to cross paths with a number of colorful characters (yes, including cats) to find his family in this animated, family-friendly retelling of the immigrant experience.

Today, it is difficult to remember a time when Disney was not the undisputed king of American animation, but it was only a few decades ago that its place at the top was seriously challenged. Former Disney animator Don Bluth had found success on his own in 1982 with “The Secret of NIMH.” For his follow up, Bluth teamed up with Steven Spielberg for “An American Tail” in 1986, and the movie went toe-to-toe with Disney's “Great Mouse Detective,” both commercially and critically. Round two went to Bluth, as his “Land Before Time” proved to be much more successful with critics and audiences than Disney's “Oliver and Company” in 1988. However, Disney took control for good in 1989, when “The Little Mermaid” was released on the exact same day as Bluth's “All Dogs Go To Heaven.” The Disney Renaissance had begun, and Disney would not be challenged for animation superiority again until Pixar's “Toy Story” in 1995.

Everyone is welcome to attend, however, those who have a cough, fever, or are feeling under the weather, are asked to visit the museum another time — for your own health, the staff and other supporters.

There is no charge for the film, and donations will be accepted to help defray the cost of showing the films. Popcorn is also free; wine, beer, pop and water will be for sale. Seating is provided, but film fans can bring their own floor pillows, portable chairs, or whatever is comfortable for viewing the film.

The Northwest Montana History Museum is located at 124 Second Ave E., Kalispell. Call 406-756-8381 for more information.