Eloise in Hollywood

Lights, camera, Eloise! Kay Thompson's iconic storybook character ventures forth from the Plaza hotel and heads for a new playground—Hollywood—in the company of her beloved Nanny (voiced by Lynn Redgrave) in this winsome animated production. Her red carpet fantasies come true when the producer gives her a small role in a film, but when she is later chosen to replace Debbie Dunbar—the bratty and spoiled child star—Eloise discovers that making movies is less about glamour than “long hours and very tense people.” Fortunately, Eloise sees a workable plan when Debbie sincerely regrets her obnoxious behavior and receives a second chance to fulfill her own dreams. Produced for the Starz Kids & Family network, this adaptation by J. David Stern and David N. Weiss is faithful to the spirit, design, and voice of Thompson and illustrator Hilary Knight's cherished books, and features fine voiceover work by Redgrave, Tim Curry, Lacey Chalbert, and Alan Cumming. Unlike the insufferably horrid live-action features, the Eloise here is “a natural” who will resonate with fans. Featuring both full frame and widescreen editions, DVD extras include a sing-along song, DVD-ROM dress-up game and postcard maker, and coloring pages. Recommended. Aud: P. (D. Liebenson)