The movie is based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel of the same name and is set in 15th-century Paris. It follows the story of Quasimodo (voiced by Tom Hulce), a kind-hearted but physically deformed bell-ringer who lives in the bell tower of Notre Dame Cathedral. Quasimodo is cared for by Judge Claude Frollo (voiced by Tony Jay), the Minister of Justice, who adopted him as a baby but treats him as a prisoner due to his appearance.
Despite his isolation, Quasimodo dreams of experiencing life outside the cathedral and yearns for acceptance from the people of Paris. His only companions are three stone gargoyles named Victor (voiced by Charles Kimbrough), Hugo (voiced by Jason Alexander), and Laverne (voiced by Mary Wickes).
Meanwhile, Frollo becomes obsessed with capturing and eliminating the Romani people living in Paris, including Esmeralda (voiced by Demi Moore), a beautiful and compassionate young woman. Esmeralda befriends Quasimodo and shows him kindness, leading him to develop feelings for her.
As tensions rise between the Romani people and the citizens of Paris, Frollo’s lust for Esmeralda intensifies, and he becomes increasingly ruthless in his pursuit of her. Quasimodo, who has grown to love Esmeralda, vows to protect her from harm, even if it means defying Frollo and risking his own safety.
In the climax of the film, Frollo captures Esmeralda and sentences her to death for witchcraft. Quasimodo rescues her from the gallows and brings her to the sanctuary of Notre Dame Cathedral, where he declares his love for her. Despite Quasimodo’s efforts to protect her, Esmeralda is fatally wounded by Frollo.
In the final confrontation, Quasimodo confronts Frollo atop Notre Dame Cathedral, where Frollo falls to his death while attempting to kill Quasimodo. With Frollo defeated, Quasimodo emerges as a hero, and the people of Paris finally accept him for who he is.
The film concludes with Quasimodo grieving for Esmeralda but finding solace in the love and acceptance of his friends and the citizens of Paris. As Notre Dame Cathedral rings its bells in mourning, Quasimodo embraces his role as the beloved bell-ringer of Paris.
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is praised for its stunning animation, powerful themes, and memorable musical score by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz. The film’s exploration of themes such as prejudice, acceptance, and redemption resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a beloved classic in Disney’s animated canon.