The Wind in the Willows - Winter Tales product reviews

Delightful British accents, a beautiful theme song (sung by Ralph McTell) and lively support music.

New Zealand's 'G' rating is appropriate - no bad language or scary scenes.

I think these episodes would be enjoyed by preschoolers and early primary school children. They are slower paced than more recent TV/Movie productions, but the stop-motion animation is very clever and the lighting & visuals are well done. (Don't be expecting any fancy 'special effects' though.)

Each story demonstrates the nature of friendship and value of good character. They clearly promote desirable social behaviour and include simple contrasting of 'good vs bad', 'pride vs humility' etc. - appropriate for the age of the target audience.

EPISODES
Winter Sports
A winter sports competition is being held. The proud and gullible Mr Toad is persuaded to offer a grand prize for a skiing race which he is certain he will win! Count on some game rigging by the scheming weasels...

The Rescue
A young shrew named Earnest has gone missing. Rat, Mole and an over equipped Mr Toad set off to find the missing youngster. Toad manages to lose his way, and all of his provisions are filched by the weasels. To the dismay of Rat and Mole it seems the weasels have also got Earnest, but a surprise is in store as it turns out they have shared Toads lunch with him and taught him how to make a 'bunny' out of a hanky. However, the weasels hastily attempt to argue how terribly they have been treating him when they are affronted at being accused of showing kindness to the boy.

The Yuletide Entertainment
The Riverbank community has organized a fun evening talent show. Toad naturally expects to be the star with an opera piece. Unfortunately, whilst practising in the bedroom he swallows his false moustache and spends most of the evening desperately attempting to cough it up. In his absence, Mole delivers a brilliant impromptu song and (almost) tap dance routine. A merry time is had by all, but poor Toad finally emerges only after all the guests have finally said goodnight and left.