Unlike in the original movie, the live action focuses on the Medici Brothers Circus. Run by ringmaster, Max Medici (Danny DeVito), the Medici Brothers Circus was once a profitable circus that brought joy to hundreds, but is now suffering due to the War. An influenza outbreak that wiped out a number of the circus’ members including member, Holt Farrier’s (Colin Farrell) wife, is preventing the circus from returning to its previous glory. Holt, who has returned from the War, must find a way to resume life with his children now that his wife is gone and his former career, as a trick horse rider, is in shambles.

A shining hope comes the Farrier family and the circus’ way in the form of a baby elephant, with oversized ears, named Dumbo. Holt’s children, Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbin), give the little elephant some training and the circus soon realizes Dumbo’s ears would not only lift him off the ground, but would propel the Medici Brothers Circus back into the spotlight. Their new act catches the audience’s interest and also the interest of entrepreneur, V. A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton) who seeks to use Dumbo for his own personal gain.

Directed by Tim Burton, this version of Dumbo is visually stunning. From the costumes to the scenery, the story unfolds on screen in such a beautiful way that the audience won’t be able to take their eyes off the screen. Burton, like a number of his other films, finds a way to make his stories feel whimsical without taking away from the story. CGI is used quite a bit in this film, which is understandable, yet does hinder the film slightly. Some things, like the elephants, need CGI, but it felt like too many of the scenes were shot using CGI which took away from the live-action feel and purpose of the flick.

Besides the stunning visuals, nothing else stands out in Dumbo. The acting was mediocre and with stars like Keaton, DeVito and Farrell one would, and should, expect much more. The story is lacking fluidity and doesn’t start to pick up until the end of the film. This poor pacing didn’t allow time for any of the actors to shine.

Fans of the original animated classic will get a kick out of this new version. The important moments from the original have been incorporated into the new version including a nice rendition of “Baby Mine”. For those who weren’t a fan of the original, wait to see the movie when it is released on DVD later this year. Dumbo is cute but there isn’t enough consistency to keep the audience in their seats from start to finish.

Grade: C