9 Disney Movies With Upsetting And Dark Moments
6. Bambi's Mother Is Shot - Bambi
Bambi features probably one of the most memorable deaths in cinematic history. Even if you haven't seen the movie, you'll be aware of the climactic death of Bambi's mother at the midpoint of the film. The scene itself masterfully establishes the threat posed by the hunters too: the score begins to build suspense, swelling gradually whilst his mother begins to panic and search the horizon for their attackers, eventually ordering Bambi to flee.
The ensuing chase through the harsh winter is extremely tense, the two deer racing and throwing up snow everywhere. The off-screen shot that takes down his mother reverberates, harshly interrupting the score. Bambi is then left to slowly realise his mother didn't manage to outrun the hunter after all, whilst he waited for her in the dark confines of the nearby thicket.
Bambi as a film asks us to reflect on our own impact on the natural world, and the doe's death left a strong impression on pop culture since it first appeared on-screen. It's a powerful moment, paving the way for Bambi to eventually grow into the role of Great Prince of the Forest as he protects the families of the wood that he himself lost.