VeggieTales: Merry Larry & the True Light of Christmas
By Renee Longstreet,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Simple, faith-based look at the true meaning of Christmas.
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What's the Story?
In MERRY LARRY AND THE TRUE LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS, there's excitement in Spring Valley. Veggie Philip (played with gusto by Bob the Tomato) and Veggie Reggie have a fabulous opportunity: They've been asked to decorate the entire Spring Valley Mall for Christmas! There's no end to the lights, the sparkle, the dazzle they can create. There's even a glimmering train and a massive fireworks display. Only the mall's Christmas Elf (played winningly by Larry the Cucumber) is doubtful. Isn't there more to Christmas than shine and spectacle? Enter Christina, a little girl who comes to the mall hoping only to raise money and find helpers for an elderly neighbor whose home is nearly falling apart. It isn't long before Phillip and Reggie, aided by the Christmas Elf and the discovery of an ancient creche (a replica of the Nativity), really do find the holiday's true meaning.
Is It Any Good?
Simplicity, humor, clever music and songs, and a desire to inspire good works and faith are the trademarks of The Veggie Tales. This entry is no exception. There's a pervasive gentleness and an earnest wish to connect to kids in a positive way. Some entries in the Christian series are more religious than others; because this episode is about Christmas, the values are very clearly tied to God and the birth of Jesus. Still, the underlying message is about giving, helping, and "loving thy neighbor," which works in any season.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can discuss ways in which giving and helping are satisfying. Describe how you feel when you give a gift to someone you love. How is that different from the feelings you have when you receive such a gift? Are both meaningful to you?
How can you and your family be giving and helpful at Christmas time? Plan one activity with your family to make a difference in someone's holiday experience.
What do you think is meant by the phrase "Christmas spirit"?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: October 22, 2013
- Cast: Mike Nawrocki, Phil Vischer, Si Robertson
- Director: Brian K. Roberts
- Studio: Big Idea
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Holidays, Music and Sing-Along
- Run time: 47 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 26, 2022
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