The Sword in the Stone (1963)

"The Sword in the Stone" is a charming American animated fantasy film directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, released in 1963. Produced by Walt Disney and based on T.H. White’s novel from "The Once and Future King," it’s a whimsical retelling of the young King Arthur’s origins, brimming with magic and medieval mischief. The story follows Wart (voiced by Rickie Sorensen, Richard Reitherman, and Robert Reitherman), a scrawny orphan dreaming of becoming a knight’s squire in a crumbling English castle. His mundane life flips when he stumbles into Merlin (Karl Swenson), an eccentric wizard with a patchy memory and grand plans. Merlin takes Wart under his wing—or rather, his owl Archimedes (Junius Matthews)—to teach him life lessons through magical transformations into fish, squirrels, and birds. But destiny calls when Wart pulls a legendary sword from a stone, unwittingly claiming his place as England’s future king. Celebrated for its playful animation, catchy songs like “Higitus Figitus” by the Sherman Brothers, and a lighthearted take on Arthurian lore, "The Sword in the Stone" shines with Disney’s signature warmth. Highlights include Merlin’s bumbling duels with the cantankerous Madam Mim (Martha Wentworth), adding slapstick flair to Wart’s journey. Released in 1963, "The Sword in the Stone" was a modest hit, cherished by families for its endearing characters and uplifting spirit. A delightful slice of Disney’s golden era, it’s a timeless tale of how a little magic—and a lot of heart—can shape a hero.