One Christmas Eve a hamster, a rabbit and a guinea pig embark on a journey to deliver a Christmas present, which has accidentally been lost by Santa Claus. Together the 3 venture into the unknown in search of the girl of the missing package: freckled face Polly. This seasonal animation is a delightful story, which sees a group of household pets try to save a little girl's Christmas and help out Santa. Despite being quite a short story, it manages to convey such an exciting adventure that people of all ages can enjoy. I grew up with this TV Movie and it became traditional viewing for me and my family every Christmas. I love how this film broadens your imagination with its creative story, making you think up your own adventures. You can imagine your pets going on a wild and eventful expedition to save Christmas and I can certainly see people who either own or have had pets having a real connection with this film. Each one of our protagonists plays a key role in getting the present to Polly and they are all very entertaining. The Rabbit is called Archie (voiced by Hugh Laurie) and gets our story started due to him being very ambitious and adventurous, wishing for a chance to go out into the world. When the present falls off Santa's sleigh and crashes into their shed, he sets things in motion by urging the others to deliver it. Duke is the guinea pig (voiced by Mark Williams) who isn't one for all this adventuring and would prefer to stay in his warm home eating his mince pies and carrots. Once he joins the others and embarks on the journey, although being sceptical and unwilling at first, without him, the present surely wouldn't have made it to Polly's. Finally, there is Babs the hamster (voiced by Barbara Windsor) who is more of the brains of the group. She knows more about human stuff, like what a Christmas present is as well as what writing is and how to read it. She helps Duke against his anxiety about going out into the world and cares deeply for her friends throughout their mission. I loved each character individually for different reasons with all their unique traits and I think the voice acting was superb from each actor. Whilst delivering the parcel, these intrepid animals will come across many obstacles, friends and foes. Along the way, they will be helped by a talking snowman who guides them to the whereabouts of Polly and some hilarious pigeons who lend a wing in getting them there. However, they come across a Siamese cat who attempts to eat our trio, frequently showing up when you least expect it. Whenever the cat is present, it leads to some extremely nerve-racking experiences sure to have younger viewers at the edge of their seats, or behind the sofas. One of the funniest parts of the film has to be seeing these different pets riding with a Christmas present on a skateboard. It is such a brilliant mode of transportation for them whilst also looking unbelievably funny. It is a very creative idea that I bet many young watchers have imagined their pets riding on such equipment. During the film, we get the song 'You Can Be A Hero' sung by Becky Taylor, which emphasises the meaning behind this short film and what each character learns. However small and insignificant we think we are, we can make a difference. The animation is also great using a very soft-looking hand-drawn/painted style. It is very interesting to look at and has some lovely visuals and colours. Overall, Second Star to the Left is an adorable story that is great for all the family to watch together during the festive season of Christmas. It is heartwarming, adventurous and very imaginative. A must-watch for all children this festive season.
Director: Graham Ralph
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