Clement C. Moore’s beloved poem “‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…” is brought to animated life through the inimitable illustrations of Mary Engelbreit in this holiday film inspired by her bestselling book. Not all is tranquil when viewers learn that, indeed, a mouse is stirring in the house and is actually quite agitated. Gregory, an earnest rodent, has just overheard the chilling news that Christmas might not come at all because of a spell cast on Santa by a naughty fairy named Implestik. And so, between stanzas 8 and 9 of Moore’s familiar verse, Gregory launches off on his own adventure into the enchanted wood to find the Fairy Queen who can break Implestik’s bitter spell. Along the way, this mouse-on-a-mission meets heartening heroes–an insightful older mouse named Augustus, a wise owl, and a sprightly young fairy–who guide Gregory’s footsteps. This charming tale blends classic and contemporary, adding the winning component of Engelbreit’s recognizable drawings. Her work, once narrowly coined “a vast empire of cuteness,” is the perfect ingredient for Christmas cheer, infused with spirited wit and nostalgic warmth. (Ages 3 and older) –Lynn Gibson
Movie DVD
We’ve had so much fun with Mary Engelbreit’s DVD over the holidays. Our kids played it over and over again, in fact they’re playing it now. They’re captivated by this wonderful telling of the Night Before Christmas story and it’s easy to see why. Everything is first rate. Beautiful animation, great characters, great songs. And of course it’s hard to beat Kevin Kline. But most of all I like the message. Anyone can be a child at Christmas, all you have to do is believe. I think open hearted adults will love this movie as much as kids do. It’s already on my gift list for friends next year.
Where to buy cheap prices? -Mary Engelbreit’s The Night Before Christmas $1.46
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Nov 17, 2009 19:55:32
