Eloise: Little Miss Christmas (2006)

TV. This Emmy-winning program, based on the popular Eloise books written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight, is a positive delight. Girls through age 9 should love it but so should anyone who enjoys a heartwarming holiday special. (The title mentions Christmas but Hanukkah and other family celebrations are included. I found this disc at my local library. [It is now available for instant viewing through Netflix. 5/4/08] Don't confuse it with Eloise at Christmastime, which Netflix does not list but Blockbuster does.) Eloise is as physically and mentally energetic as ever, with a whimsy and imagination that wins over the hearts of all who meet her. In this episode, she leads the children's preparations to stage a holiday program, facing major challenges both known and unknown. (Lynn Redgrave as Nanny requests a favor and Tim Curry as Mr. Salamone has an unrelated and providential change of heart. Matthew Lillard as Bill does his best but is upstaged by the real McCoy before he can arrive.) The animation in this series is wonderful, with facial expressions and scene framing and motion that are very creative. Watch the facial expressions of every hotel employee to learn more about their personalities -- and to be surprised -- throughout the show. Mary Matilyn Mouser as Eloise simply cawn't, cawn't, cawn't go wrong in this role. She's a heartstealer! 4.5 stars.