Saturday, November 28, 2009

The Tale of Despereaux

Matthew Broderick, Emma Watson (Actors). Robert Stevenhagen, Sam Fell (Directors). (2008). Universal. Rated G. B0018ATR2S

PLOT SUMMARY

A young mouse, small of stature, yet big of ears and heart, befriends a rat and goes through a series of (mis)adventures all in the name of honor, valor, and chivalry.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Tweens will enjoy this film for its animated format and the antics of the characters. It has a darkness that might worry younger viewers, but the story is fun with a message that shows kids the meaning of being a good person (mouse.)

Several changes that are different from the book. They don't quite detract from the story, but readers of the book may be disappointed.

READER'S ANNOTATION

Despereaux has a romantic and restless spirit. Follow along with him as he takes his friend the rat on a series of adventures that go from mouseworld to the rat world to the human world.

GENRE

Fantasy/adventure

CURRICULUM TIES

English

How does the movie compare to the book? What was the significance of the changes? How does it change the story?

READING LEVEL/INTEREST AGE

6 and over

CHALLENGE ISSUES

Some intense moments for younger viewers

CHALLENGE DEFENSE IDEAS

Know library policies. Understand the reasons for acquiring this dvd.

WHY INCLUDE THIS MOVIE?

Tweens who have read the book will be interested in seeing it.

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