Pooh's Heffalump Movie

Winnie the Pooh and his pals learn valuable lessons about friendship and diversity in Disney's slight and sugary tale for young children. Believing that a mysterious rumbling noise in the Hundred Acre Wood is the sound of a much-feared Heffalump monster, the grown-up animals set out to catch the creature, leaving a disappointed young Roo behind. The playful if moralistic romp that follows (as little Roo undertakes his own successful expedition) will delight the under-fives, although adults are very unlikely to share their enthusiasm. Roo's "captive", giggly baby Heffalump Lumpy, is suitably cute, while the catchy songs and gentle games that result as the two bond are simplistically endearing. Compared to the new wave of computer-generated fare, this 2-D animation is a bit flat and quaint, but the appealing candy colours and overall sweetness of the story help to disguise its shortcomings.