“The Lorax”
In an almost doomsday scenario, the film looks at what happens to the environment when the last Truffula tree has been cut down. It’s a cautionary tale aimed dramatically at young and old.
That message is just as strong in this animated version of the book, but it has been cushioned slightly by a fun musical soundtrack and a budding love story. You will want to hug a tree after watching “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” — and a few humans, too.
This strong story is visually splendid.
Grade: A-
“Grimm: Season One”
The approach to this NBC series is to have fairy tales based on real world creatures that now prowl the Pacific Northwest. It’s up to Portland homicide detective Nick Burkhardt (David Giuntoli), the last in the long line of creature fighters, to close the book on the evil creatures.
One reason this series is so good is Silas Weir Mitchell, who plays Burkhardt’s wise-cracking sidekick and is far smarter about the ways of the weird than his police buddy. He brings a touch of humor even when the pair battle creatures that inspired the stories of “The Three Little Pigs” and “Hansel and Gretel.”
“Grimm” is dark and happily embraces things that go bump in the night.
Grade: A-
Also coming
“Full Metal Jacket”: The 25th anniversary of Stanley Kubrick’s Vietnam War drama is marked with the release of the 25th anniversary Blu-ray book.
“Clue”: Comedy mystery available on Blu-ray.
“William &Catherine: A Royal Romance”: A fictional account of the recent royal nuptials.
“Marley”: Documentary on the life of Bob Marley.
“Jesse Stone: Benefit of the Doubt”: Tom Selleck reprises his role as the gruff lawman.
“Kathy Griffin: Pants Off &Tired Hooker”: DVD features two Kathy Griffin specials.
Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee (Fresno, Calif.)
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