Preview: The Tale of Despereaux (2008)

• Poster: C+; B+

Review:

The level of detail is strong, but the overall presence of the poster is a bit unbalanced. This may be a fitting reproduction of information from the book and film, but it is entirely unwieldy.

This richly detailed poster is artistic, but it seems more like something that would hang on a child's bedroom wall than as an actual selling point for the film. But, it is a beautiful work.

• Trailer: B; C-

Review:

Looking like your typical animated film, the trailer starts off reminiscent of Ratatouille, which is a marketing ploy I'm sure. However, as the trailer moves on, it's clear that it's no more like Ratatouille than Copland is like In the Heat of the Night. There isn't a lot of excitement built in the trailer, nor does it look abysmal as it could have.

This looks like one of those hapless direct-to-video features that blends a little bit of Ratatouille with The Rescuers. This new trailer makes the film look less interesting and more childish.

Oscar Prospects:

The year's Oscar slate is filling up quickly and I'm doubtful there will be room for this kid-friendly flick.

Release Date:

• December 19, 2008

Full Review Synopsis:

I have not seen this film.

-Wesley Lovell (June 29, 2008) Original

-Wesley Lovell (November 9, 2008) New Trailer; New Poster

-Wesley Lovell (January 11, 2009) New Poster; Buy the Poster Enabled