Russian Bird Dad Cannot Be Bested

Boris’s design was always really solid, but I noticed in some concept art that he wore a hat (because Russia) and a sling for what I presume was a bum wing. This was likely meant to explain how he’s “grounded” and why he neither abandoned Balto nor fit in with the other geese, as it’s implied he’s an outcast as well. I prefer to think he didn’t leave Balto because he gives a damn about him, but I like the outcast angle enough to give him back his broken featherhand.

Boris works fine as a comic relief character who also provides, weirdly enough, some of the most powerful lines and revelations in the film. He’s a useful addition to the cast, and the fact that he’s based around the wildest fun fact regarding the real Balto makes him all the more hilarious; allegedly the real dog was often seen playing with a goose.