The Highway Rat

Based on the 2011 picture book written by Julia Donaldson and colorfully illustrated by Axel Scheffler, this delightful CGI-animated short featuring plasticine figures is loads of fun. The wickedly endearing titular character, voiced by David Tennant, travels atop his trusty horse (Rob Brydon) and steals food from every animal he meets. Life is "one long feast" for the Highway Rat until he meets clever Duck (Nina Sosanya), who lures the thieving rodent into a dark cave with promises of biscuits and buns aplenty. Of course there is no food in the dark cave and eventually Highway Rat throws away his costumed cape, hat, and eye mask, and escapes to the other side of the cave where he discovers a European-inspired town, gives up his robbing ways, and finds work sweeping floors in a bakery filled with sweets. An original score performed by classical musicians nicely complements the story, which is brought to vibrant life by the talented British narrators and imaginatively animated critters that inhabit Highway Rat’s world. Extras include an informative behind-the-scenes segment with interviews of the book’s author and publisher as well as members of the London-based production team, a "Live Performance" with Donaldson reading her book to a rapt grade-school audience while costumed adults silently act out the narrative, and an artwork gallery. Highly recommended. Editor’s Choice. Aud: E, P. (S. Beauregard)