This sci-fi adventure adapted from Jules Verne novel film deals with an expedition organized by a wealthy man (Donald Sinden) , an adventurer (David Tomlinson , unforgettable Lucas Tanner) and a genius inventor (Jacques Marin) . They along with an Eskimo (Mako) set out in search for his son on an ingenious blimp called Hiparion . But they suddenly encounter a lost civilization , a Viking kingdom . They are captured by the Vikings and are judged at a temple under the sculptures of Northern Gods : Thor and Odin . They're condemned to death penalty but achieving to flee. The movie displays exciting flying i scenes nvolving a spectacular Zeppelin over the skies of Arctic where we see different animals : Seals , oxes , White bears , Orcas , Reindeers and a Whales cemetery .

This fantasy picture gets action , adventures , derring-do , amusing images and breathtaking landscapes . Colorful atmosphere in this entertaining story in which with tension and adventure are maintained throughout. Splendid aerial cinematography showing marvellous outdoors . Abound matte painting , including enjoyable special effects by Disney specialist Peter Ellenshaw who is production designer too . Evocative and agreeable musical score by Maurice Jarre (Lawrence of Arabia, Bridge on the River Kwai). The motion picture was beautifully directed by Robert Stevenson , a Walt Disney's usual director (In search of the castaways : his fist attempt to recreate Verne novel , Gnome mobile , Herbie rises again , Mary Poppins). Mainly recommendable for all family and specially for children and adventure lovers .

One of the most painful acknowledgments you often have to make in adult life is admitting that the vast majority of movies that you loved so much as a child are actually quite stupid and insipid when seen again through the eyes of a grown-up. I've seen so many fond childhood memories deteriorate into disappointment that I've almost become reluctant to seek out my former favorites. Luckily enough this statement doesn't apply to "The Island at the Top of the World"! I loved it as a young boy, I still love it now. This timeless Disney adventure with obvious Jules Verne echoes still delivers non-stop entertainment from start to finish, provided through breathtaking imagery and landscapes, fantastically imaginative plot twists, spectacular action footage and a dazzling musical score by Maurice Jarre. This is the story of an obnoxious British businessman, a suave scientist and a cocky French zeppelin pilot embarking on a highly perilous journey to the Arctic and beyond, to a mythical region no living being ever set foot. Sir Anthony Ross hopes to find his son Donald who, after a familial dispute, ran off on an Arctic expedition but hasn't been heard of since. After a long and eventful trip full of obstacles through the cold and windy arctic mountains, the travelers and their reluctant Eskimo guide suddenly arrive in a flourishing volcanic area where time seemingly hasn't evolved for thousands of years. They find Donald, who has integrated into a Viking community that has claimed the island ever since their forefather arrived and still live according to ancient Northern rites and traditions. The welcoming of the new explorers isn't exactly a hearty one. "The Island at the Top of the World" made me feel 8 years old again and I eagerly allowed myself to be overwhelmed by all the nostalgic goodness. I still can't choose one standout favorite scenes. There are so many! The awesome airship's battle against the storm, fleeing on foot through an erupting volcano, the ancient traditional Viking trial or the attacking of the orca killer whales! Admittedly most of the special effects and tricky photography look extremely dated by now, but this only adds to the nostalgic charm. David Hartman and Donald Sinden depict very diverse characters, but still they're both wonderful British stereotypes. Jacques Marin gives away the best performance as the Captain and the always reliable Mako is terrific as the Eskimo guide. The Vikings, all authentic Scandinavian actors, especially impress through their robust personalities and clothing. Agneta Eckemyr is incredibly cute as the love interest. Perfect Saturday afternoon entertainment… forever!

"The Island at the Top of the World" is an adventure film from Disney which seems imspired by the stories of Jules Verne. It's mildly enjoyable...a decent time-passer.

The film stars David Hartmann, a man who seems totally unlike a movie star and who is best known for hosting TV's "Today" show for many years. It also stars Donald Sinden who spends most of the movie yelling and barking orders.

Sir Anthony (Sinden) has a son who disappeared in the Arctic some time ago. He's now mounting an expedition to locate the man and he plans on using the latest technology circa 1900...a blimp. The plan is to use it to search a much wider area than you'd get searching from the ground. Amazingly enough, their search take them to an odd green oasis...peopled by ancient-acting Norsemen and women.

There is nothing terribly good or bad about this one. While the characters are a bit flat, the special effects make up for it and the overall film is watchable and mildly interesting. Nothing more to say about this one.