The Storykeepers: Episode #1 Breakout!

First in what is slated to be a continuing series of animated Storykeepers programs, this episode is centered around the adventures of a baker (Ben) and his wife Helena. They shelter orphaned children and meet clandestinely with other people to tell the stories of Jesus and keep Christianity alive. Breakout! interweaves New Testament material from the life of Jesus within an action/adventure framework. The evil Nero, on the lookout for some Christians to liven up gladiatorial combat and lion feeding, manages to capture one of Ben's flock, who then needs to be rescued. In the manner of Saturday morning cartoons, there are few shades of gray (and not much range in the animation). The Romans are all stupid, piggy and mean, and the good guys are...well... good. The violence is more implied than actually shown on screen, and the comedy element supplied by the oafish Romans helps keep the tension level down. A seven-year-old co-reviewer thought it was great and has asked to see it several times. Recommended for ages 6-12. (E. Swanson)