A Goofy Movie is '90s Disney at its finest. It's a fun road trip movie with all the cartoony antics one would expect from something with Goofy in the lead role. There's definitely no shortage of heart and humor throughout the film, but is there something more complex behind the silly slapstick?
Beneath the animated adventures of Goofy and Max, there's actually a deeper narrative and a more thought-provoking message. It's a tale about trust, communication, and understanding that deserves further analysis. As funny as it might sound, A Goofy Movie might have more going on than viewers realize, at first.
There’s Hidden Meaning In Max’s Dream
Disney definitely did their psychological homework when it came to creating this opening sequence. Max's fantasy with Roxanne turning into a nightmare with his Goofy transformation has more meaning than just an over-the-top intro.
The first half represents Max's desires for Roxanne, the field and flowers being symbols of fertility and love obviously directed at his dream girl. The transformation into the kaiju-sized Goofy is his fear of becoming like his father, a phobia experienced by many. Whether audiences knew it or not, this was a great representation of Max's psyche.
Max & Roxanne Are Super Realistic For A Disney Couple
Let's look a little closer at Max and Roxanne. The '90s was essentially the boom of the cheezy Disney couples, especially on Disney TV shows. But Max and Roxanne break the mold by being perhaps the most realistic for the time.
They're not just cute and doe-eyed - they're awkward, nervous, and everything a normal high-school-aged pair would be. Who knew Disney would make an animated couple more realistic than their live-action ones? This is definitely something they should look over again.
It Shows A Very Human Side Of Goofy
Goofy is, without a doubt, the star of this movie, plain and simple. Although he does display his typical comedic styling, this flick shows a decidedly more human side to his character. That's some unusual territory for someone with a cartoony pedigree like Goofy's.
While he does get up to his usual schtick, Goofy behaves more like a functioning human in the movie. Viewers see him get angry, frustrated, and even a little manipulative. Those aren't exactly qualities one normally expects from the character.
Goofy Might Have Separation Anxiety
This would more thoroughly be explored in the sequel, but Goofy definitely has some anxious tendencies in this film. While it's mainly due to Pete's rather toxic and pessimistic influence, Goofy practically has a full-on panic attack after the call from Principal Mazer.
This pushes him into a radical and unhealthily overbearing frenzy that triggers the events of the film. The trip is essentially a Hail Mary at maintaining his relationship with his son and keeping him from a fictionalized path of degeneracy. His intentions might have come from a place of love, but Goofy was never one for the art of subtlety.
There’s A Surprising Amount Of Adult Humor
It might be a Disney-made comedy, but there's a lot of adult humor and in-jokes scattered throughout the film. One might even make the argument that older viewers will pick up a lot more than the kids. Sure, it's got Goofy doing Goofy things, but there's plenty hidden for the adults to enjoy.
There is a lot of implied innuendo, such as the "one-eyed monster" reference, and even some dark humor like the scene with the mime sprinkled in as well. Simply put, it's one of those movies where there is a balance between what appeals to both age groups.
Visuals Carry A Lot Of Storytelling
On the subject of visuals, a lot of the storytelling relies heavily on what is not said. The expressions, the backgrounds, the lighting, the position of certain set pieces reveal a lot of what is going on both in and out of the character's minds.
One of the most prominent examples is the postcard sequence where, even though Max is having a glimmer of conscience, his shredded remnants betray his true deeds. It's a bit blatant, but the visual presented is one that will undoubtedly stick with the audience after the credits roll.
Powerline’s Music Is A Reflection Of The Moral
Everyone can pretty much agree that Powerline's songs absolutely rock. But there's more going on than just a catchy pop tune from Disney. They both serve as a reflection of what the characters learn in the movie.
"Stand Out" refers to Max's desire to stand out, not just to Roxanne, but to stand apart from his dad, as well. It's an identity motif. Then, "I2I" is the more blatant but important meeting of the minds. Now that Max and Goofy have a better understanding, they have a healthier and stronger relationship.
Pete Might Actually Be A Toxic Parent
It's shocking that Disney would go this dark, but the evidence is there. Although Pete is often seen as the comical villain, he gets into some really dark territory in this movie. It's never seen, but it can be implied from PJ's neurotic nature and anxious behavior that there might be some mistreatment going on between him and his dad.
PJ is terrified of his father, and Pete even gloats about keeping him "under his thumb." There is definitely something unhealthy affecting their relationship. For further proof, Pete's line, "My son respects me" might just be the nail in the coffin.
There’s A Very Big Message About Communication
The conflict in this movie doesn't just come from Max's deception, but rather the lack of communication between the two leads. Max could have still spent time with Roxanne and gone on the vacation with Goofy, but the two didn't communicate clearly enough, resulting in their misguided road trip.
The theme of communication and miscommunication is a heavy motif throughout the film. From the phone call from Principal Mazer to the "Hi Dad Soup" and even to the chase scene towards the third act, the Goofs can't overcome their obstacles until communication is achieved.