Film: Nativity 2: Danger In The Manger

With Martin Freeman away being Bilbo Baggins it’s up to new teacher David Tennant (Fright Night) to take over the unruly schoolchildren of St Bernadette’s and lead them to Wales, where they will compete in the TV competition A Song For Christmas.

Marc Wootton returns as the zany Mr Poppy, as does the majority of the original cast, including most of the children. Tennant, while adequate in his dual roles, is never as likable as Freeman was and his dysfunctional family storyline fails to engage.

This is ok for kids but lacks the charm of the original making it a rather mundane affair.

Nativity 2: Danger In The Manger is in UK cinemas now.

Ric’s Rating: Dodgy           

Film: The Lorax

Thneedville is a town with no nature. There are no trees, grass, or soil and fresh air is sold by the bottle.

Living in the town is young Ted (Zac Efron) who admires Audrey (Taylor Swift) from afar until he discovers her love for trees. Ted vows to get a tree for Audrey and so begins a journey in which he will encounter The Lorax (Danny DeVito), The Once-ler (Ed Helms) and many other weird & wonderful characters.

This charming animated film is an absolute delight for young kids but there aren’t any “smart” jokes aimed at bored adults. The joy to be had here is to see your children enthralled by an environmentally motivated tale which features some fine voice performances.

DeVito is excellent as The Lorax but Betty White (The Golden Girls) steals the show as Ted’s snowboarding Gran.

The Lorax is in UK cinemas now.

Ric’s Rating: Highly Recommended (for kids of under 8 and their parents/carers)

Film: The Flight Before Christmas

When impetuous young reindeer Niko unwittingly leads wolves to his herd he decides they would be better off without him so he sets off on a quest to find his Father, one of Santa’s famous flying reindeer.

Along the way he is joined by Julius the flying squirrel and Wilma the weasel, together they embark on the seemingly impossible journey to Santa’s Fell, but the wolves are close behind.

This beautifully animated film is a festive treat for both kids and adults. It has charming characters and nice moments of humour but the trio’s journey isn’t without peril.

The Flight Before Christmas is an ideal movie to enjoy with the kids as we approach the festivities, it’s available on DVD in the UK now courtesy of Metrodome.

Ric's Rating: 71%