In February 1940, Walt Disney Studios released its second full-length animated feature, Pinocchio—a dazzling and ambitious follow-up to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Now marking its 85th anniversary, Pinocchio remains one of the most beloved and artistically groundbreaking films in animation history. Its influence endures not only in cinema but in the world of collectibles, where everything from original animation cels to modern figurines continues to capture the imagination of Disney fans. This milestone year brings a fresh wave of anniversary-themed releases—including special edition pins, collectible keys, plush toys, and limited-run figurines—which we explore in this feature alongside the film’s rich history and lasting legacy.
Based on the 1883 Italian children’s novel The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi, Disney’s adaptation softened the darker aspects of the original tale to create a story that balanced moral lessons with warmth, humour, and extraordinary visual invention. The film follows Geppetto, a kindly woodcarver who wishes upon a star for his wooden puppet to become a real boy. His wish is granted by the Blue Fairy, setting in motion a journey filled with adventure, temptation, and ultimately redemption.
The film’s production was a major undertaking for the fledgling studio. Walt Disney spared no expense, even halting progress midway through to rework entire sequences and refine the characters. Pinocchio introduced several technical and storytelling innovations, particularly in character animation and special effects. The fluid animation of characters like Jiminy Cricket and Figaro the cat set new industry standards. The underwater scenes, created using innovative multiplane camera techniques, were especially groundbreaking.
Kindly woodcarver Geppetto’s pets–impish kitten Figaro and flirty goldfish Cleo–are brought to expressive life in this soft-sculpted plush from the Disney Vault Collection. Embroidered features and glittering organza make this playful all-in-one pair the perfect companions while celebrating the 85th Anniversary of Walt Disney’s animated masterpiece Pinocchio.
Key figures in the film’s development included supervising director Hamilton Luske and animation legends like Frank Thomas, Ollie Johnston, and Ward Kimball—members of Disney’s elite “Nine Old Men.” Jiminy Cricket, the conscience and narrator of the story, was originally designed as a more realistic insect but was reimagined as a charming anthropomorphic figure, becoming one of Disney’s most enduring characters. The song “When You Wish Upon a Star,” performed by Jiminy (voice of Cliff Edwards), went on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song and eventually became Disney’s signature theme.
Although Pinocchio was not a financial success upon its initial release—largely due to the impact of World War II on international markets—it was later reissued and recognised as a masterpiece. Today, it is widely considered one of the greatest animated films of all time, preserved in the United States National Film Registry for its cultural significance.
From a collectibles perspective, Pinocchio has inspired a rich legacy. Early merchandise included tin toys, jigsaw puzzles, and ceramic figurines. Over the decades, the character has appeared in everything from Snowglobes to Jim Shore resin sculptures, and limited-edition pins to Lladro porcelain. Original production cels and posters now fetch thousands at auction. In recent years, Disney’s Platinum figurine line and high-end collector dolls have kept interest alive, particularly among fans of classic-era Disney.
As Pinocchio turns 85 in 2025, collectors and fans alike have another chance to reflect on the enduring magic of this wooden boy who wanted to be real. Whether through vintage ephemera or beautifully crafted statues, the film’s message—of honesty, bravery, and the power of a wish—continues to captivate hearts around the world.
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