DVD: The Wind in the Willows (A & E Home Video)
Reviewed by Holly Day

---

I don't know how many times I put this movie on, only to find I was unable to successfully watch the thing all the way through in a sitting. This has nothing to do with the story, or the presentation on this Cosgrove Hall production; it's because every time I put it on, my 14-month old would go bonkers for certain scenes and insist that they be replayed, again and again, until the story almost lost meaning. Obviously, to her, this is a movie about 1) Claymation ducks that excel in synchronized swimming, and must be viewed at least ten times in a successive loop upon threat of temper tantrum; and 2) a Claymation carthorse with great, rolling eyes that sings in a really deep tenor.

The rest of the movie apparently means little or nothing to her, because after those two scenes have passed, she usually wanders out of the room in apparent boredom, and since she's apt to destroy important things when she's bored, I usually end up stopping the film to toddle off after her. Of course, this is the part of the Wind In the Willows when the real meat of the story begins, like the conflict between Badger and Toad, and Toad going to prison for reckless driving, and the Stoats and Weasles taking over Toad Hall. But you all know the book, right?

Anyway, the production quality of this is just wonderful, done entirely in Claymation animation. The critters playing the leads all have large, glittery eyes, especially Mole, who seems about to burst into tears at any moment, and the backgrounds are just beautiful, especially the scenes along the riverbanks full of butterflies, rushes and wildflowers. There's some great, catchy songs here, too - but not too many - that'll keep you cheerfully humming along and dreaming of summertime. Extras include a really interesting interview with legendary animator Brian Cosgrove and some games for the kids.

© 2005 - Holly Day