Holly and Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure (NR, 2009)

common sense media says

Merry holiday special sends feel-good messages to kids.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this sweet, kid-friendly holiday tale focuses on a lovable pair of moose siblings who have their differences but always support and stick up for each other -- so there are good lessons here for kids about getting along with brothers and sisters. The show’s main theme of holding fast to your dreams is woven into its appealing theme song, and other messages about friendship, helpfulness, resourcefulness, and dedication are present as well.

Educational value: The show teaches strong lessons about caring, friendship, and holding tight to dreams.
Positive messages: Holly is tempted to forego her responsibilities but learns her lesson when her brother goes missing on her watch and she must track him down. The reindeer tease Hal for dreaming of flying with Santa’s sleigh, but he never gives up hope for his dreams. Other themes include friendship, resourcefulness, determination, and believing in yourself.
Positive role models: Holly is a caring, attentive older sister who goes the extra mile to help Hal fulfill his dreams. Hal and Holly’s dedication and inventiveness are generously rewarded.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: The story is based on characters from Build-A-Bear Workshop, but no mention of the tie-in is made during the special itself.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.

More on Holly and Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about how advertisers influence viewers' spending habits. Kids: Did you know that this special is based on characters created by Build-a-Bear? Have you ever seen Hal and Holly before?

  • Does seeing this special make you want a stuffed replica of the star(s)? Why or why not? What other toys have you wanted because you saw them on television?

  • Kids: What responsibilities do you have at home? Do you take care of younger siblings? What rewards do you get from doing a good job?

  • What are some of your family's holiday traditions? Are there certain movies or TV specials that you watch every year? What activities do you enjoy together? What's your favorite part of the holidays?

What's the story?

What's the story?

It’s days before Christmas, and Holly Moose is glum about missing her friend’s big party to watch her little brother, Hal. But when Hal goes missing on her watch, Holly must set out to find him, knowing that he’s probably on his way to the North Pole to fulfill his dream of joining Santa’s sleigh team -- despite the fact that, as a moose, he can’t fly. Reunited and magically transported to Santa’s village, the siblings pitch in to help the elves and reindeer get ready for the big day. Hal’s big imagination and Holly’s creativity save the day when a big storm threatens Christmas, and a grateful Santa grants them the greatest gift of all.  

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

HOLLY AND HAL MOOSE: OUR UPLIFTING CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE is sure to be a family favorite thanks to its adorable characters, pleasant animation, and feel-good messages. It’s easy to believe in the magic of Christmas when it’s seen through the eyes of Hal, whose unbridled enthusiasm for adventure and fulfilling his dreams will ring true with kids. And Holly’s devotion to her brother is an inspiring example of love and compassion for kids.

But Holly and Hal are only two of the endearing characters in this upbeat holiday special. Viewers of all ages are likely to get a chuckle over a pair of high-strung elves (voiced by Meaghan Martin and Jonathan Morgan Heit), as well as traditionalist head elf Saul, who balks at mixing Santa's traditions with modern technology in the toy workshop. In short, this delightful story is an excellent reason to close the door to the hustle and bustle of the holiday and cuddle up with the kids on a cold winter's night.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Cast: Jonathan Morgan Heit, Meaghan Jette Martin
Genre: Family and Kids
Run time: 60 minutes
Theatrical release: November 24, 2009
DVD release: November 25, 2009
MPAA Rating: NR

This review was written by Emily Ashby
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

Katie2Fun
teen, 16 years old
 
JUST GREAT!
Its a good movie!!! VERY VERY cute. though the little girl has a cell phone???

jessefscott
teen, 14 years old
 
should be allways remembered forever
what build a bear workshop has done is just make the holidays even warmer

emma1234
teen, 14 years old
 
i love it so munch

Moonraker
parent of 6 and 8 year old
 

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