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Charlotte's Web , by E.B. White, now, that's some book. And its generations of fans have long been grateful that the only movie version of the book—a musical animated feature from 1973—is actually quite memorable and worthwhile.

So it is with fear and trepidation that the story's countless fans are approaching the flashy new Hollywood version of White's classic tale directed by Gary Winick. After all, too many forgettable talking-animal tales have traipsed across the screen in the last few years.

And it wasn't necessarily good news when it was announced that the new version would be loaded with celebrity voice talents. That's sure to sell tickets, but it can wreak havoc on the art of storytelling if the actors' familiar personalities overpower the personalities from the pages of the book.

But according to Christian film critics, this Web—with a screenplay adapted by Susannah Grant and Karey Kirkpatrick—is impressively spun. It isn't perfect, but most reviewers are recommending it to families for Christmastime viewing.

Russ Breimeier (Christianity Today Movies) has mixed feelings about the movie's sense of humor, but he says, "[T]he film's saving grace is that it takes subtle themes from the book and runs with them fully, pumping up the dialogue with some excellent life lessons that work well with Christian beliefs, making this an ideal movie parable for kids."

He concludes, "This movie never quite does full justice to White's book, and it may simply be a story that's stronger on the written page. But little gripes aside, it's terrific—or radiant, pick your own word from the web—and bound to satisfy the intended audience … perhaps communicating something even deeper than expected to a new generation."

"I'd rather rewatch the cartoon with my kids," Steven D. Greydanus (Decent Films), "or better yet, reread the book." But he does rate it as "fair family entertainment, though the story would have been better served by a more faithful adaptation—and more inspired direction. The basic appeal of White's story is sturdy enough to survive the filmmakers' more dubious choices, and the emotional climax may even leave viewers with a lump in their throat."

Bob Hoose (Plugged In) says, "This new non-musical version has a few flat spots. … But there's something very endearing about E. B. White's tale of friendship and innocent longing to believe the best of others. The CGI special effects are realistic … the Norman Rockwell-esque setting is welcoming, and the script is funny and engaging. It's Wilbur expressing wonder over the 'ordinary miracles' of everyday life, though, that will most charm the kids and inspire the rest of us."

David DiCerto (Catholic News Service) says it's "one of the best family films of the year. … While the 1973 animated version is hard to beat, Winick's use of live action—enhanced by computer effects as in Babe—is charming, and the all-star voice talent … is obviously impressive."

Also a fan of the book, Christa Banister (Crosswalk) says it's a "lovingly crafted film that mostly stays faithful to the book, given an artistic liberty here and there for the sake of humor. And fortunately, unlike a lot of kids' movies these days, the jokes take the witty course, rather than relying on pop culture references, sexual innuendo or an abundance of flatulence."

Kathy Bledsoe (Past the Popcorn) says, "The important messages of Charlotte's Web are intact and strong in this new movie version. … [T]he movie brings [the author's] imagination to full living color and life that parents and children can enjoy together. … Give a really great family gift this holiday season and see a film that is both enjoyable and educational."

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December (Web-only) 2006, Vol. 50