Ruthe Stein, Chronicle Senior Movie WriterMovie Review Excerpts
"Charlotte's Web,'' a splendid new screen adaptation of White's 1952 children's book, gloriously brings the classic to life. If you've never read it, this is a perfect introduction, and if you have, you'll be impressed with how effectively director Gary Winick and screenwriters Susannah Grant and Karey Kirkpatrick capture White's message about love and loyalty among all of God's creatures without ever getting syrupy. There's an edge to this exemplary family movie, just as there is in the story.The filmmakers' wisest decision was not to rely on computer-generated effects. Wilbur is a live animal, as is most of the barnyard menagerie. Seeing actual horses, cows and sheep go about their business lends credibility to the farm scenes.
The county fair where Fern brings Wilbur in the hope that a blue ribbon might be his ticket to longevity is lovingly created. When Fern catches the eye of a cute boy who buys her a roller coaster ticket, it's suddenly obvious that her affection for a pig may soon be transferred elsewhere.Another of White's timeless messages, astutely captured in the movie, is that nothing is forever, including life, and to make the best of the moment. Listening to Wilbur squeal in delight might tempt you to do the same just for the heck of it. (Read More)