Unlike later series that adapted individual albums, the Belvision series (produced between 1959–1964) took a different approach: feature-length films (roughly 60–80 minutes) later broken into 5–6 minute TV episodes. Hergé himself was closely involved, ensuring visual fidelity to the ligne claire style.
The most notable DVDs contain the three main Belvision features:
Actually, the most common DVD set includes:
The Belvision DVDs typically compile the original episodes into feature-length films or multi-episode discs. The most common DVD editions include:
| DVD Title | Episodes / Stories Included | Runtime (approx.) | |-----------|----------------------------|-------------------| | Tintin and the Temple of the Sun | Prisoners of the Sun, The Seven Crystal Balls | 80 min | | Tintin and the Mystery of the Golden Fleece | Original Belvision film (not based on a single album) | 75 min | | Tintin and the Blue Oranges | Original Belvision sequel film | 80 min | | The Calculus Case | The Calculus Affair | 50 min | | Tintin in Tibet | Tintin in Tibet | 45 min | | Tintin and the Picaros | Tintin and the Picaros | 50 min | | The Complete Belvision Collection (box set) | All 8–10 compiled stories | 600+ min |
Important note: Not all Hergé albums were adapted. Missing are Tintin in the Land of the Soviets, Tintin in the Congo, The Blue Lotus, The Broken Ear, The Black Island, King Ottokar’s Sceptre, The Crab with the Golden Claws, The Shooting Star, The Red Sea Sharks, Tintin in the Land of Black Gold, and Flight 714 to Sydney.
It is important to note that Hergé’s estate, Moulinsart (now part of TintinImagination), has historically distanced itself from the Belvision productions. In official biographies of Hergé, these films are often glossed over or described as "unfortunate necessities" of licensing. The estate has pursued takedowns of digitized versions on YouTube.
Consequently, any current pressings of the Tintin Belvision DVD are almost guaranteed to be remaindered stock or pirated copies. If you see a "Brand New 2024 Remastered Belvision Box Set" on an e-commerce site, run—it is a bootleg.
The Tintin Belvision DVDs are essential only for completist collectors and animation historians. For general fans or newcomers, the Nelvana series or the 2011 film offer superior viewing experiences. However, the Belvision DVDs hold undeniable historical value as the first attempt to bring Tintin to the screen, faithfully preserving Hergé’s dialogue and 1950s European animation style.
Recommendation for purchase:
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Sources: Hergé Foundation archives, DVDCompare.net, Planète Tintin, fan reviews from Tintinologist.org
series, officially titled Hergé's Adventures of Tintin , was the first animated adaptation of the famous comic books, produced between 1957 and 1964. Finding these episodes on DVD can be challenging because they are often outclassed or confused with the more common 1991 Nelvana series. Product Options & Availability
While a complete "Belvision series" box set is rare in English-speaking regions, you can find specific episodes and related feature films: The Calculus Affair (DVD)
: This specific Belvision episode was released as a standalone DVD in the UK in the early 2000s and re-released in 2011 as part of a Hachette collection. The Animated Feature Films of Tintin (3-Disc Set) : Often available on , this set typically includes the Belvision-produced movies Tintin and the Temple of the Sun (1969) and Tintin and the Lake of Sharks Individual VHS Rips
: Many fans resort to searching for older VHS editions or digital archives because many of the original 103 five-minute episodes have never received a formal, high-quality DVD release. Key Series Features
If you are looking for this specific version, keep in mind it differs significantly from the books and the later 90s series: Unique Voice Cast tintin belvision dvd
: The US dub features Dal McKennon as Tintin and Paul Frees as Captain Haddock. Story Changes
: These adaptations took creative liberties, such as Tintin living in New York instead of Brussels and the Thompson twins being depicted as actual brothers with identical moustaches. Visual Style
: Directed by Ray Goossens, the series used a simpler animation style compared to later versions but remains a nostalgic favorite for those who grew up with it in the 1960s. Included Adventures (Partial List)
The Belvision Tintin DVD Collection: A Historical Overview Introduction The Belvision animated series, titled Hergé's Adventures of Tintin
(Les Aventures de Tintin, d'après Hergé), was the first major television adaptation of the world-famous comics created by Belgian cartoonist Hergé. Produced between 1957 and 1964 by Belvision Studios, the series is distinct for its limited "semi-animated" style and its use of five-minute serial episodes. Animation and Series Structure
Unlike the more widely known 1990s series by Ellipse-Nelvana, the Belvision version was created earlier and took significant liberties with the original source material.
Format: 103 episodes were produced, with most being approximately five minutes long.
Visuals: Early episodes were produced in black and white, while later seasons transitioned to color. Episodes Adapted: Objective Moon The Crab with the Golden Claws The Secret of the Unicorn Red Rackham's Treasure The Shooting Star The Black Island
The Calculus Case (often treated as a separate feature film). DVD Availability and Releases
Finding the original Belvision series on DVD can be challenging, as it was often overshadowed by later adaptations and was primarily available as reedited feature-length films on VHS in the 1980s. Key DVD Releases:
The Feature Films: Stand-alone Belvision movies such as Tintin and the Temple of the Sun (1969) and Tintin and the Lake of Sharks (1972) have seen more consistent DVD releases than the original TV serials.
The Calculus Affair: Originally intended as a movie, it was released on DVD by Citel Vidéo in France (2008) and was available in the UK in the early 2000s.
Compilation Sets: Some regions have seen compilation DVDs under labels like Bergvík, featuring titles such as The Shooting Star and Destination Moon, though these are often the reedited feature-length versions rather than the original five-minute serials.
Where to Buy: Used copies can occasionally be found on platforms like eBay or specialty listings on Amazon. Collecting and Legacy
Collectors often seek the Belvision versions for their nostalgia and unique mid-century animation style. While the original serial format is rare on modern digital media, some fans have turned to archival sites or YouTube to find full episodes. The essentials about Tintin and Hergé Unlike later series that adapted individual albums, the
The Belvision Tintin DVD collections, such as the Animated Feature Films of Tintin, offer a nostalgic but technically dated look at Hergé's classic characters. Produced primarily in the 1960s and 70s, these adaptations are often viewed as "charming" curiosities rather than definitive versions. Key Highlights
Art Style and "Charm": The Belvision animation is often described as crude or "average," with stiff movements and limited detail. However, for many fans, this creates a strange, nostalgic charm that sets it apart from more polished modern versions.
Original Music: One of the strongest features is the musical score, particularly by François Raubier, which many reviewers find exceptional and a major highlight of the experience.
Voice Acting: Feedback on the English voice acting is mixed. While some fans prefer the Belvision Thompson Twins' voices over later versions, others find the overall cast to be a "simplified" version of Hergé’s complex characters. The Three Featured Films
Common DVD box sets typically include three distinct films with varying levels of quality: The Temple of the Sun
: Widely considered the best adaptation in the set and a standout for the studio. The Calculus Affair : Viewed as moderately entertaining but flawed. Tintin and the Lake of Sharks
: Frequently cited as the "worst" of the three, criticized for an improbable plot and poor voice casting. Technical Quality and Features
Visual Presentation: Expect images that are occasionally "muddy and muted" compared to modern standards. Some releases may suffer from videotape dropouts or audio sync issues, though newer box sets have attempted to fix these.
Special Features: These DVDs are generally "bare-bones," often lacking bonus features or subtitles.
Language Options: Most versions include a choice of English, French, and sometimes Spanish audio. Comparison: Belvision vs. Nelvana
If you are looking for accuracy to the original comic books, most fans recommend the 1990s Ellipse-Nelvana series over the Belvision adaptations. The Nelvana version is praised for its "spot-on" look and feel and more faithful narrative structures. The Animated Feature Films of Tintin - Amazon UK
Here’s a draft for product or editorial content regarding the Tintin Belvision DVD collection (referring to the 1950s-60s animated series produced by Belvision Studios, not the later 1990s or Spielberg versions).
A unique aspect of the DVD releases is the inclusion of the "Feature Film" versions. Belvision often edited their five-part serials into continuous movies for theatrical release or syndication. For example, Prisoners of the Sun and The Seven Crystal Balls were often combined.
Relive the Classic Animation! 🎬
Grab your Tintin Belvision DVD Collection today! Experience the original 1960s animated adaptations of Hergé’s masterpieces. Featuring hand-drawn animation that stays true to the comics, this set includes classics like The Black Island, The Calculus Affair, and Destination Moon. Actually, the most common DVD set includes: The
Perfect for long-time fans and new readers alike. A nostalgic journey with Tintin, Snowy, and Haddock! 🐶⚓️
If you have a specific format in mind (like a specific scene description or a technical review of the DVD quality), let me know and I can adjust the text!
Tintin: A Belvision Adventure - Coming to DVD
Get ready for a thrilling adventure with Tintin, the world-renowned young reporter, as his exciting escapades make their way to DVD through a collaboration with Belvision, a studio known for bringing classic comics to life.
About the DVD
This DVD release features [insert specific episode or series title here, e.g., "The Secret of the Unicorn," "The Black Island," etc.], produced by Belvision, a company famous for its animated adaptations of beloved comic strips.
The Story
The story follows Tintin, a brave and intrepid young journalist, and his loyal canine companion, Snowy, as they travel the world, solving mysteries and uncovering conspiracies. With his quick wit, courage, and cleverness, Tintin always manages to save the day.
Features
Why Buy This DVD?
Release Date and Availability
The "Tintin: A Belvision Adventure" DVD is set to be released on [insert date here]. It will be available for purchase on major online retail platforms and in stores.
Conclusion
Join Tintin on an unforgettable journey filled with action, mystery, and intrigue. Order your copy of "Tintin: A Belvision Adventure" on DVD today and experience the magic of Belvision's animation and the timeless charm of Hergé's creation.
This draft can be adjusted based on specific details about the DVD release, such as the episodes included, special features, and release date.