The Care Bears Movie: 25th Anniversary Limited Edition

Children of the ‘80s will delight in this 25th anniversary (actually, of the toy line) DVD release of the 1985 animated movie inspired by the American Greeting Card phenomenon. The Care Bears live in the heavenly paradise known as Care-a-Lot. When the Bears aren't frolicking on clouds or sliding down rainbows, they are helping children on Earth get in touch with their feelings. It doesn't take them long to work their magic on Kim and Jason, two orphaned children whose parents "went away," but Nicholas, a magician's assistant who unleashes an evil spirit that lays waste to Care-a-Lot and threatens to wipe out all feelings, is another story. The indomitable Bears inspire a change of heart with the help of the Care Bear Cousins, who live in the Forest of Feelings. Carole King sings the lilting theme song, with additional ditties by John Sebastian, while Mickey Rooney provides the voice of orphanage manager Mr. Cherrywood. Now that the once ubiquitous Care Bears merchandise has mostly been relegated to garage sales and eBay, The Care Bears Movie can be enjoyed on its own nostalgic merits. Grumpy Bears need not apply! DVD extras include an original television episode. A strong optional purchase. (D. Liebenson)