Now streaming on Disney+ is the animated short film, An Almost Christmas Story. Directed by David Lowery, and featuring the vocal talents of Mamoudou Athie, Cary Christopher, Estella Madrigal, Jim Gaffigan, Natasha Lyonne, and John C. Reilly, the film tells the story of an owl and a young girl who embark on an adventure.
In the movie, it’s Christmas time and Moon is an inquisitive young owl, living with his father and sibling in the forest. One day, after spending the night in a pine tree, Moon wakes up to find the tree has been cut down, shipped to New York, and placed in Rockefeller Plaza as the annual Christmas Tree.
Completely out of his home environment, and hopelessly lost, Moon is frightened by the hustle and bustle of New York City. But thankfully Moon makes a friend in a young girl named Luna, who is keen to help him get home.
Clocking in at around 20 minutes, An Almost Christmas Story is a lovely little film sure to warm every inch of the heart. It’s a tale about friendship at the most festive time of the year, and it’s filled with lights, snow, classic Christmas tunes, and all of the things you would expect in a holiday picture.
Best of all, An Almost Christmas Story features delightful stop-motion animation, which adds a real tactile quality to the visuals. You can almost reach out and touch the characters, the background and sets, giving the film its own unique look and feel.
In terms of the story, it’s fairly straightforward stuff, but it’s perfect for all ages. Young audiences should find its themes of friendship and belonging easily digestible and entertaining, while older audiences will appreciate its cosy vibe.
In fact, it’s so cosy, this is the perfect short to sit and enjoy before bedtime, when it’s cold outside and the snow is falling. An Almost Christmas Story feels very much like a hug, with director David Lowery effortlessly tapping into the warmth and magic of the season, and if you need a lovely way to kick off Christmas, this is it!
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Thank you for taking the time to read this review on It’s A Stampede!. For more reviews, check out the recommended reads below.
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