Summer of the Monkeys

Considering how Disney somehow manages to find spots on its theatrical release schedule for live action cinematic monstrosities like Mr. Magoo and Meet the Deedles, it's almost criminal that they've relegated this charming, uplifting piece of family entertainment to "oh, by the way" video release status. Based on Wilson Rawls' young adult novel and set in rural Canada in 1910, the story follows a headstrong 12-year-old farmer's son named Jay (a superb Corey Sevier) who finds out that four performing chimpanzees have escaped from a derailed circus train. Enticed by a reward which could help him buy his own horse, Jay sets out to re-capture the chimps, facing obstacles within his family and from a mysterious hermit (Don Francks). Surprisingly, the film doesn't become a loop reel of wacky simian hijinks; in fact, the chimps are merely the means through which Jay begins learning some valuable life lessons about responsibility, the value of education and the importance of family. It's almost enough to restore your faith in Disney's live action film-making, and a steal at the price. Highly recommended. (S. Renshaw)