The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) is an animated, dramatic retelling set in 15th-century Paris that follows Quasimodo, the gentle but deformed bell ringer of Notre Dame, who has been raised in isolation by the fanatical Minister of Justice, Claude Frollo. When Quasimodo sneaks out for the boisterous Festival of Fools, he meets the compassionate gypsy Esmeralda and the dashing soldier Phoebus. Their friendship and defiance draw them into a desperate struggle against Frollo’s cruelty and prejudice as he threatens Esmeralda’s people and the cathedral itself. Watching the film you’ll experience a wide emotional range: moments of warm humor (especially from Quasimodo’s playful gargoyle companions), soaring musical numbers, and intense, darker scenes that probe themes of prejudice, justice, and the meaning of sanctuary. Visually the movie contrasts the shadowed grandeur of Notre Dame with the bustling streets and the colorful Court of Miracles, giving a strong sense of medieval Paris. The narrative builds to tense confrontations that test loyalty and courage, while offering moments of tenderness and moral complexity. Overall, viewers can expect an animated family epic that blends heartfelt character drama, memorable songs, vivid production design, and a powerful message about acceptance and standing up to abuse of power — balanced by lighthearted comic relief but not shying away from serious, sometimes unsettling conflict.

Actors: Demi Moore, Jason Alexander, Mary Kay Bergman

Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise

Runtime: 91 min

Genres: Animation, Drama, Family

74 /100 7.0 /10 7.2 /10