Product: Bebe, Un Coninito Va Muy Lejos (Babe -- Spanish edition) [VHS] (1995)
Rating: 4.0
The Little Pig That Could
Some films are so enjoyable that it is nearly impossible not to smile through them as they teach subtle lessons, and Babe is one of the best. It is the odd being that can't laugh at the antics of the animals of Farmer Hoggit's farm as Ferdinand, a duck tries to usurp the role of the rooster, three literate musical mice read title cards aloud for younger audience members, and best of all, Babe, a Hoy piglet, learns the job of the brilliant herding dogs, Rex and Fly, to win the annual sheep herding competition.Clever animation, well done animatronic creature-doubles by Jim Henson's studio, and a menagerie of superbly trained real farm animals makes the superior story of the little piggie who could more than just a cute bacon for breakfast situation. A film for the entire family, it is simple and underscores the notion that hard work and tolerance for those different from oneself are to be respected in the kingdom of all animals. Babe brings to the screen through comedy and drama, life lessons that all ages can understand without being preachy or didactic. One cheers for the farmer and his porker as they challenge the conventions and expectations with subtle humor and respect.As the piglet grows bigger through the great job of fattening up by Mrs. Hoggit, he makes friends with an elderly ewe who conveys much wisdom about the rules of farm life, where Rex is the dominant dog, and the sheep are considered ignorant. However, Farmer Hoggit and Babe share a special relationship that confounds his wife, the sheep dogs, and the sheep. He trains Babe how to herd sheep and he's a mighty smart and fast learner, ultimately changing the rules that dominated the pecking order of the barnyard motto - "because that's the way it's always been" with his good manners and friendship.James Cromwell as Farmer Arthur Hoggit gives an understated, superb performance as the patient farmer who is willing to give a young pig a chance. This is one of the most delightful family films and perfect for seasonal get-togethers, or just because it's a nice change to see film devoid of inane car chases, mindless explosions, and peppered with four letter words, yet, adult in its message. Every home library should have its own copy of little Babe, a Pig of Destiny.