Mickey Down Under

About Mickey Down Under

Mickey Down Under is a delightful Disney cartoon released in 1948, set in the Australian Outback and starring the legendary character, Mickey Mouse. Venturing far from his usual home, Mickey encounters a host of Australian wildlife on his Outback adventure. He meets an energetic kangaroo and tries to mimic its way of moving, leading to hilarious antics. All the while he struggles to keep Pluto out of trouble, preventing his mischievous pet from continually running afoul of a frilled lizard.

Making / Production

Directed by Charles A. Nichols and produced by Walt Disney himself, Mickey Down Under took audiences on an exotic adventure to the wilds of Australia. Production was handled by Walt Disney Productions, and the film was distributed by RKO Radio Pictures. The production followed Disney's high standards of animation, bringing the vibrant Australian outback to life in captivating detail.

Actors

• Mickey Mouse: Played by Walt Disney, Mickey is his usual self: Brave, adventurous and always getting into trouble. Disney's voice work brings the beloved character to life in this unique setting.
• Pluto: Voiced by Pinto Colvig, Pluto finds himself at odds with the native wildlife, causing plenty of chaotic moments that Colvig handles with humorous precision.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This was one of the last times Walt Disney voiced Mickey Mouse.
• Despite its title, the majority of the film takes place in a Kangaroo's pouch.
• The film makes use of authentic Australian wildlife sounds, enhancing its sense of place.

Awards

While Mickey Down Under did not receive any specific awards, it further cemented the Disney studio's reputation for fun, beautifully animated shorts.

Quotes

• "Blimey, it's a city slicker!" - Mickey Mouse
• "G'day mate!" - Mickey Mouse

Music, Soundtrack

• The bouncy score was composed by Oliver Wallace, featuring upbeat tempos that underscore Mickey's adventures in the Outback.
• Authentic Australian Aboriginal music was also used to set the atmosphere.