The Wind in the Willows: The Feature Films Collection (NR, 2006)

This set of DVDs features two animated stories based on the book , by Kenneth Grahame. Set in Edwardian England, the first feature, The Wind in the Willows, follows the adventures of four animal friends: mild-mannered Mole (voiced by Richard Pearson), sensible Rat (Ian Carmichael), gruffly wise Badger (Michael Hordern), and the lively but irresponsible Toad (David Jason). The film begins at a slow pace, but the action kicks in when the wealthy Toad develops an unhealthy yet hilarious fascination with driving motorcars. His friends stage an intervention for their irrepressible amphibian buddy and are drawn into various adventures, from the lavish Toad Hall to the spooky Wild Wood. In A Tale of Two Toads, Toad is kidnapped by a suavely villainous look-alike, who assumes Toad's identity, and turns Toad into his servant. When the villain is discovered, Rat, Mole, and Badger rally to rescue their friend.

Both stories here feature stop-motion animation that seems utterly enchanting and three-dimensional in this increasingly computerized age. Both movies also include songs and alternate between heartwarming scenes and downright zaniness. The four main characters have memorable, distinct personalities; parents will appreciate their articulate, refined way of speaking and, most importantly, their loyalty to one another through thick and thin.

A Tale of Two Toads turns comic as the two sides try to outwit each other, and kids should find giggles in the scene in which the other characters can't tell Toad and his doppelganger apart. Special features include an interview with animator Brian Cosgrove, a bonus episode from the TV series, and "Toad's Road Trivia Game."

Studio: A&E Home Video
Director: Mark Hall
Cast: David Jason, Ian Carmichael, Richard Pearson
Genre: Family and Kids
Run time: 134 minutes
Theatrical release: September 26, 2006
DVD release: September 26, 2006
MPAA Rating: NR