Willow In The Wind - Kathy Mattea

Advantages: Quirky and funny version of original classic
Disadvantages: Not completely true to the book

...I must say, most guiltily, that I've never read the 'Wind in the Willows'. Yet here I am to pay homage to one of the funniest DVD's I've ever seen. Looking at a few reviews on different websites the general consensus seems to be that, while not quite true to the book, this is still a hilarious and cheering film for both adults and children (it's rated 'Universal'). However, I've also read some very negative reviews from people brought up on the classic children's story, who find that this film unnecessarily deviates from material so good it should never have to be changed. As a newcomer to the story I was able to appreciate the wonderful story irrespective of faithfulness to the original. It is still, in my opinion, extremely funny and has a tranquil atmosphere of English countryside, riverbanks and country homes. I'm a huge fan... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: classic children's tale, lovely illustrations
Disadvantages: lots of cheap copies about that may not appeal tochildren in format, so be choosy

...Ah....childhood memories. This book brings back so many fond memories of rainy afternoons and even a read along at school. It all came rushing back as I sat down to go through my daughter's curriculum guide for next term and saw The Wind in the Willows was on her Year 2 syllabus .I almost envy her. This will be her first meeting with the creatures who live along the river in a romanticised pastoral England that never quite was. Astonishingly, this book almost never quite was the highly regarded and well known book it is today. Kenneth Grahame was a banker for the bank of England, and after publishing a few stories, here and there, that went greatly unnoted, penned The Wind in the Willows. It too seemed destined to drift on the tide unremarked, save for it coming to the attention of A. A. Milne, who was so taken with the book that he... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: funny, appeals to all ages, good actors
Disadvantages: you will likely already know the plot

...This is the latest version on dvd of the Wind in the Willows which was released out on dvd 26/03/2007. I found this version of the classic tale to be the greatest version yet and i think Matt Lucas from little Britain play a quality character as good old Mr Toad. This dvd will appeal to children and adults alike, definately a must see film. The film is set in the english countryside with lovely picturesque views, the dialogue of the characters and the scenes in which they find themselves in leaves you wishing you yourself were a rich toad going off on wild adventures or having picnics and trips in your little rowing boat across the river. costumes - very detailed, although i doubt anyone would want to wear the simple clothes of Mole or Badger, the lovely suits worn by Mr Toad, Rat and the weasels are simply divine. soundtrack... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful