Stick Man

Based on the 2016 children's book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, the delightful Stick Man features an all-star voice cast, including Martin Freeman (as the titular hero), Hugh Bonneville (as Santa Claus), Sally Hawkins (as Stick Man's Stick Lady Love), and Jennifer Saunders as the narrator. The animated tale finds the Stick family with its little branches and twigs enjoying a jolly life together until misfortune separates Stick Man from the others. Carted off by a dog, a swan, a couple of children, and hampered further by the elements (snow, freezing winds), Stick Man is carried far away from his home and loved ones, who miss him terribly. Things take a turn for the better when Santa shows up, but there is a classic Disney feel (think Pinocchio in peril) to the urgency of Stick Man's situation, and young children might be a little shaken before being relieved by the story's resolution. Extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette. Serving up a wonderful adaptation of an oddball holiday tale, this is highly recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh)