Hans Christian Andersen—The Fairy Tales: The Emperor's New Clothes & Other Stories

This compilation of Hans Christian Andersen tales kicks off with the classic titular story of a fashion-plate-wannabe ruler who obsesses over making a splash with style. In a move sure to place the plump chump on Mr. Blackwell's eternal “Worst Dressed” list, the gullible emperor fires his trusted tailor and hires clothes makers Flim and Flam, who toil over garments that are so exceptional only a “wise” man can see them. Plain fools, of course, see nothing but the monarch's nekkid booty during his victory parade, but by the time his manservant breaks the truth to his leader, the crooks are long gone with the real booty, including money, fine fabrics, and other goodies. Three other tales are also featured on this disc: “The Lovers” (about talking toys and their romantic misfires), “The Old Street Lamp” (chronicling an enchanted last night of work for an outdated talking oil lamp), and “The Bottleneck” (following the “life” of a talking champagne bottle that eventually winds up as a bird's drinking cup). The highlight of the program is actually the opening credits, which feature a live-action storyteller/babysitter and his captivated charges as they morph into cartoons and follow along with the tales. Unfortunately, the cartoons themselves are in a style reminiscent of 1970s-era Saturday morning fare. Still, the inclusion of many of Andersen's lesser-known tales makes this a strong optional purchase. Other titles in the series include: The Little Mermaid & Other Stories, The Ugly Duckling & Other Stories, The Nightingale & Other Stories, The Wild Swans & Other Stories, The Princess and the Pea & Other Stories, and The Hardy Tin Soldier & Other Stories. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)