I think folks have OVER examined this picture, not taking it for what it was designed to do, in the first place; a visual stiring of the soul. If this film does not instantly touch something deep inside you; if it does not give you the joys and pleasures of wonder and adventure, then you have missed the point. I saw this film in Cinerama fourteen times, as a teenager; it still holds me captured as much today, dispite the dissapointing drawbacks and limitations of the standard television screen. This film is absolutly alive when presented on a screen that emerges the viewer within it. I feel sorry for the generations who have not had the opportunity to experiance it, as such. A must for today's tv viewers, is to read the novel after your first viewing; your second watching will open your eyes! Still the film that had the largest impact on me, during those formative years.