Holly and Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure
By Emily Ashby,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Merry holiday special sends feel-good messages to kids.

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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?
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.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
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?
Movie Details
- In theaters: November 24, 2009
- On DVD or streaming: November 25, 2009
- Cast: Jonathan Morgan Heit, Meaghan Jette Martin
- Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Run time: 60 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 25, 2022
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