The Swan Princess [VHS]
This excellent theatrical feature is loosely based on the Swan Lake story. Princess Odette, having been turned into a swan by a sorcerer's spell, is held captive at the enchanted lake with friends Jean-Bob the frog, Speed the turtle, and Puffin the bird. Along comes Prince Derek, who becomes involved in liberating her by taking on the villain. The movie has been criticized for being too similar toSleeping Beauty, but once you're watching it--with its strong characters, entertaining vocal performances (John Cleese and Steven Wright are particularly funny), fine artwork, and action--such complaints are negligible.--Tom Keogh