Pooh's Grand Adventure: The Search for Christopher Robin—Special Edition

As this 1997 produced-for-video animated feature begins, Christopher Robin reassures his cherished friend, Winnie the Pooh: "You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." This affirmation will later rally Pooh and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood as they embark on a search for Christopher, who, unbeknownst to them, is attending his first day of school. A note left for his companions, misread due to a honey smudge, creates the impression that Christopher has been taken to Skull Island. And so the quest "into the great unknown" begins. Produced a full 30 years after the initial Pooh shorts brought A.A. Milne's beloved characters to the screen, this exquisitely animated film captures the charm of the books' illustrations, while John Fiedler as Piglet, Paul Winchell as Tigger, and Jim Cummings—who took over as Pooh after Sterling Holloway retired in the late '80s—provide indelible voice work. But young ones should beware: The foreboding woods and ominous (offscreen) growls here create a mood of dread and fear that overpowers the gentle tone and whimsy of Milne's stories (Heffalumps and Woozles seem tame when compared to these dangers and cliffhanging perils, which seem more suited to an Indiana Jones movie). DVD extras include the bonus short “Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day,” a “Pooh's Symphony” music featurette, and a game. A strong optional purchase. (D. Liebenson)