The Island at the Top of the World (1974)

43% of critics liked it
(7 reviews)
54% of users liked it
(1,310 ratings)

This Disney family adventure, directed by Robert Stevenson in his Jules Verne mode, concern a group of explorers who travel to the Arctic Circle in 1908 to explore the uncharted wastes of the North Pole. Sir Anthony Ross (Donald Sinden), a rich Londoner, organizes an Arctic exploration team in hopes… More This Disney family adventure, directed by Robert Stevenson in his Jules Verne mode, concern a group of explorers who travel to the Arctic Circle in 1908 to explore the uncharted wastes of the North Pole. Sir Anthony Ross (Donald Sinden), a rich Londoner, organizes an Arctic exploration team in hopes of locating his missing son. Providing expert advice is Prof. John Ivarson (David Hartman), a professor of Nordic history. As the group explores the frozen tundra, they come across an unknown valley, skirting the borders of a giant volcano, that turns out to be a lost Viking kingdom. ~ Paul Brenner, Rovi

Rating, Runtime: G, 1 hr. 35 min.
Directed By: Robert Stevenson
Written By: John Whedon
Genres: Action & Adventure, Kids & Family, Science Fiction & Fantasy

In Theaters: Jan 1, 1974 Wide
On DVD: May 18, 1999

Critic Reviews

Jay Cocks, TIME Magazine
The Arctic looks like a melted dessert, the Viking village like a low-rent neighborhood in Disneyland, and the Vikings themselves like Hell's Angels on Halloween.
, Variety
All deliver realistic performances.
, TV Guide's Movie Guide
Stunningly photographed scenery and convincing visual effects make this film one of Disney's more believable efforts.
Geoff Andrew, Time Out
Unimaginative plot, interminable dialogue in 'Old Norse', some pointless love interest, and a particularly repulsive poodle.
Steve Crum, Kansas City Kansan
So-so Disney spectacle with not so special effects.
Jeffrey Westhoff, Northwest Herald (Crystal Lake, IL)
Loved it as a kid, but I haven't seen it since.