Movie review: “The Tale of Despereaux”
From Friday’s Weekend Look section of The Oklahoman. 3 1/2 of 4 stars
Captivating characters complement fairy tale
“Despereaux” refreshing change of animated pace
With its quaint fairy tale look and multilayered storytelling style, “The Tale of Despereaux” offers a refreshing change of pace from the usual computer animated movies with their plasticized visuals, snarky characters and pop culture references.
It is based on Kate DiCamillo’s Newberry Medal-winning novel, and writer-producer Gary Ross (”Seabiscuit”) wisely and boldly keeps the book’s multi-part narrative.
With Sigourney Weaver warmly narrating, the film transports viewers to the mythical kingdom of Dor, famous for its happy residents and delicious soup.
Atypical rat Roscuro (voice of Dustin Hoffman), who loves sunshine and gourmet food, sails in during the land’s annual Soup Day, but accidentally ruins the celebration when he falls into the queen’s bowl. The queen dies of a heart attack, and her heartbroken king outlaws rats and soup. Along with the rest of the rats, Roscuro hides in the dank, ruthless Ratworld in the castle’s dungeons.
In the charming Mouseworld, tucked away in the palace walls, runty Despereaux (Matthew Broderick) also differs from his kind, with oversized ears and a curious nature. To his parents’ chagrin, he refuses to cower and reads books instead of nibbling them.
While exploring the castle, Despereaux meets grieving Princess Pea (Emma Watson), who misses her mother, soup and even the rats. The mouse strikes up a conversation with the sad princess, breaking the top mouse rule.
When the other mice learn of his transgression, Despereaux is banished to Ratworld, where Roscuro comes to his rescue. At Despereaux’s urging, Roscuro also tries to reach out to Princess Pea, but she cruelly rebuffs him.
Roscuro plots revenge against Princess Pea with the help of unloved serving girl Miggery Sow (Tracey Ullman), who longs to take the princess’ place. Despereaux must save the princess – and Roscuro from himself.
The painterly but still three-dimensional animation complements the captivating characters and magical story, which packs an epic feel in just 93 minutes.
Children accustomed to hyperactive cartoons may find that it moves a bit slowly, but the story doesn’t condescend or preach while imparting values such as courage, nonconformity and forgiveness.
- BAM
If you enjoyed this post, please consider to leave a comment or subscribe to the feed and get future articles delivered to your feed reader.
I’m afraid this movie, like “Bolt”, is going to be well-reviewed and poorly attended. It’s really too bad.