First Snow of Winter

Trying to divine what drives a major studio to attach itself to this or that children's short animated film (nepotism? cashed-in favors?) is roughly like trying to predict the NFL conference champions by studying the entrails of a pig--there's some kind of connection there (film studios do work with visual images; footballs are made out of pigskins), but it's tenuous, at best. So I cued up First Snow in Winter, which previously aired on the Disney Channel, with exactly zero expectations, and was rewarded with one of the most enjoyable stories I've seen all year. Featuring the voice talents of Tim Curry and Carol Kane, this heartwarming animated tale, set in Ireland, introduces a rather mischievous young duck named Sean, whose idea of a good time is rousting a bunch of gulls on the beach or teasing a fox--activities that his best friend Puffy regard as dubious if not downright mean or stupid. When Sean wanders away from his family during migration and is forced to crash land (resulting in a broken wing), he must tough out a cold winter with the aid of a friendly and resourceful vole, learning--in the process--some important lessons about following directions and helping friends. Good scripting, solid animation, and the best animal spoof of Riverdance you're likely to see, make this charming tale of a brave little duckling a solid winner. Highly recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (R. Pitman)</p><p>[DVD Review--November 16, 2004--Columbia TriStar, 29 min., G, $9.95--Making its debut on DVD, 1998's The First Snow of Winter is presented in a solid digital transfer with Dolby Digital stereo and no extras beyond a couple previews. Bottom line: bargain-priced, this fine Parents' Choice award-winner is highly recommended.]