Lost and Found

Based on a popular children's book by Oliver Jeffers, Lost and Found—narrated by Oscar-winner Jim Broadbent—is a charming, gorgeously animated short about a boy who comes to terms with taking responsibility for an impetuous penguin. When the latter turns up one day in a seaport town, the critter waddles its way into the life of our nameless little hero, who tries to rid himself of the bird via a lost and found department and a departing ship. When nothing works, he takes the penguin with him in a rowboat and heads for Antarctica, but a few mishaps lie in wait, including a giant storm, an encounter with hundreds of rubber ducks, and a malevolent-looking giant octopus. The visuals are wonderful, the spare dialogue enchanting, and the story's unexpected ending both sweet and satisfying. DVD extras include a “making-of” featurette. Highly recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (T. Keogh)