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coreym5
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Born in China (2016)
A little better than a by-the-numbers entry
If you've seen any of the DisneyNature films over the last decade or so, then you know what to expect with this latest entry: One or more baby animals are followed for about a year as an actor or actress provides narration. Born in China doesn't stray too far from this formula, but does rise above some previous DisneyNature films. Instead of one young animal or family of animals, several different mother- baby pairs native to China are filmed over the course of a year. In addition, the interior of China provides an exceptionally scenic landscape that I expect few westerners (including myself) have seen before. John Krasinski provides fine narration and of course at times offers his own voice for the youngest of the animals. The film does address life and death in the animal kingdom but does so in a way that one doesn't question its G rating. My only complaints about the film are the narration's portrayal of the family relationships among the animals, as though they were simply live action versions of Disney's more familiar animated characters. Nor does the movie offer complete explanations for the animal behavior at times, leaving one to guess as to why certain creatures acted as they did. Overall, however, the visuals alone overcome any aspects of the narration that are lacking. Thus, Born in China is worth the 76 minutes for anyone interested in nature films.
It Was My Best Birthday Ever, Charlie Brown! (1997)
Sigh.
As a lifelong "Peanuts" fan, I'd like to honestly say every "Peanuts" special is an animated classic. Unfortunately, "It Was My Best Birthday Ever, Charlie Brown!" proves I can't. Without being too repetitive of the other reviews, the production quality is poor, the plot is extremely thin, and the music pales in comparison to most other "Peanuts" specials. That it was a straight-to-video release is no surprise. The first third of the program is probably the weakest part, as it does essentially nothing to advance the plot and is actually rather difficult to follow. On a positive note, the voice work is solid, especially the singing, and the gags with Snoopy and Woodstock are amusing. If you're a "Peanuts" completist like me you'll still want to watch it, and fortunately as of this writing you can find "It Was My Best Birthday Ever, Charlie Brown!" on YouTube.