Barbie as the Princess and the Pauper

Barbie and Samuel Clemens, and never the Twain shall meet. Still, fans of the original American Idol will be nonetheless enchanted by this computer-animated musical adaptation of Mark Twain's classic tale. Barbie gives a virtuoso performance in a dual role as Anneliese, a princess, and Erika, a poor seamstress--identical twins, and both duty-bound women who yearn to be free and "live one day just for me." Royal intrigue unites their destinies, as Anneliese is kidnapped and Erika impersonates her to foil the evil Preminger (a lively Martin Short), who just can't wait to be king. Anneliese's devoted tutor, Julian, and the good King Dominick provide the respective love interests (although Anneliese and Erika are admirably independent women); an evil dog and a heroic cat (there's a novel twist) provide the comic relief; and the London Symphony Orchestra and the Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra serve up a solid musical score. If not altogether faithful to the source material, this impressive production is still a class act, and another jewel in Barbie's crown. Both VHS and DVD versions are packaged with a bonus CD featuring seven songs from the film, while the DVD also includes a sing-along feature. Recommended. Aud: P. (D. Liebenson)