This was Abbey's first official movie. I needed something to keep her happy one day when she was sick. She loves farm animals so needless to say this was perfect.
Plot synopsis: On a small farm, a young girls saves a runty pig from being killed. She adopts him and eventually he goes to live in her uncle's barn. Wilbur (the pig) befriends the barn animals, and especially Charlotte, the barn's spider. Charlotte also decides to save Wilbur and writes words in her web to ensure that Wilbur is seen as special.
Why this movie is great for girls: I especially like the first scene, where Fern stands up to her father when he wants to kill the pig. She says he's being "unfair and unjust". Fern does not give up on Wilbur, although she is obviously not alone in her goal to save him. She is an independent young girl. Also, Charlotte is a great role model. She dedicates herself to helping her friend.
This movie also helps kids see the value in each creature. Through the eyes of Wilbur we see that Charlotte is beautiful. The doctor that Fern's mother visits helps us to see the miracle of nature. He talks about the miracle of a spider web, even those that don't spell words!
Possible challenges: 1. Dealing with death. Charlotte dies at the end, and although it is bittersweet because some of her babies stay. Abbey is only two and she asks "where did Charlotte go, Mama?" 2. Eating animals. A popular theme with farm animal movies is the animal's concern about being eaten. I have no qualms about eating animals, as with most people. However, animal's in the films are portrayed as being aware of death and afraid of it. 3. Fern's mother is very concerned that her daughter is not acting "normal" and wants her to play with other children and wear dresses. This demonstrates that adults are anxious for children to fit into our idea and plans for them.
Parental Lessons: We should be proud when our child acts upon their convictions, even if their values challenge our unstated assumptions.
Age recommendation: 2 and up
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