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Spooky viewing for all ages
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REVIEWS BY LORILEI SONGY
When Liddy, a junior sorceress with good intentions, just wants to be a normal kid, she decides to bloom with independence from her not-so normal family. Little Witch, based on a best-selling book by Deborah Hautzig, demonstrates the struggles children may go through to fit in and make friends. Little Witch is a model of cheerful kindness. This colorfully animated video is a sheer "treat" for Halloween. The video's magical characters and true-to-life situations make Little Witch a big hit with younger viewers.
By Deborah Hautzig Sony Wonder, $12.98 ISBN 0738920401
Tommy, Chuckie, and the rest of the gang are back for another daring adventure in Rugrats: Tales from the Crib. It's a ride through the imagination of a creative tot and his cronies. Not yet two years old, Tommy Pickles is as mischievous and talkative as someone twice his age. In this Halloween tale, Tommy and his best friend Chuckie find all kinds of trouble when they decide to explore a spooky toy store. The animation has a clear contemporary feel to it that brings the children's vivid fantasy world to life.
Tales from the Crib Paramount Home Video, $9.95 ISBN 1564062031
Want a video for teens that is not completely corny? Check out Sabrina the Teenage Witch. The story features a teenage girl who receives a very unusual present for her 16th birthday -- magical powers. Starring television and film teen star Melissa Joan Hart, this enchanting tale attacks issues about growing up, interpersonal relationships, and adolescent decision-making. It projects an idea that not all witches are "evil" and introduces the "good" witch of the '90s. Although a typical high school drama, Sabrina delivers pure magic for a happy Halloween watch.
Artisan/Family Home Entertainment, $14.95 ISBN 1574922629
Looking for a Halloween video that won't give the little ones nightmares? Well, look no further than everyone's favorite purple dinosaur in Barney's Halloween Party. This feel-good, dance-and-sing-along selection provides cheerful music with a Halloween theme. Barney and friends talk about it all -- from decorating for a party and making costumes to picking out a pumpkin and trick-or-treating safely. An added bonus is that the basic Barney lessons of cooperation, manners, sharing, and friendship are addressed. This video is a refreshing change from the monster flicks that dominate during this time of year.
Lyrick Studios, $14.95 ISBN 1571321810
Lorilei Songy is director of public relations for KIDS FIRST!, a project of the Coalition for Quality Children's Media that evaluates and rates children's videotapes, CD-ROMs, DVDs, audios, and television programming.
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