Play with Me Sesame: Let's Play Games (NR, 2008)

PLAY WITH ME SESAME: LET'S PLAY GAMES is another in a series of Sesame Workshop productions designed as a "personal play date" for young kids. This one focuses on the fun of playing games, both mental and physical, and subtly enhances basic principles like taking turns and good sportsmanship. The DVD combines interactive segments featuring best loved Sesame Street characters with classic Sesame Street segments revolving around the idea of play. Ernie drives Bert crazy by making him play games with confusing rules, Guy Smiley the game show host risks being outmaneuvered by contestants, and Grover finds lots of different ways to groove and move.

Let's Play Games is full of simple games that families can replicate at home, like wearing a blindfold and guessing what an object is only through touch. The interactive segments will discourage passive viewing, as when kids are exhorted to play a variation of Simon Says along with the hapless Bert. And as one expects with Sesame Street, the action is fast-paced, the graphics bright, and the message upbeat.

The DVD comes with a bonus CD-ROM featuring interactive games, videos, and special activities that tie in with the message that play can be educational.

Studio: Sesame Workshop
Director: Jocelyn Hassenfeld
Cast: Eric Jacobson, Fran Brill, Steve Whitmire
Genre: Family and Kids
Run time: 50 minutes
Theatrical release: March 25, 2008
DVD release: March 11, 2008
MPAA Rating: NR
MPAA explanation: Not Rated