Disney's 'Christopher Robin' is Funnier Than It is Nostalgic

Winnie the Pooh and Friends; Photo Credit: Walt Disney Studios

Priorities changed for Christopher Robin as he's all grown up! Now with a loving wife and daughter, he's lost the playful boy that he once was. All work, and no play made him a dull man that he no longer make time for his family. His old stuffed animal friends in the Hundred Acre Wood Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore and more return to rekindle their lost bond with Christopher Robin.

Photo Credits: Walt Disney Studios

Disney's Christopher Robin is not the tearjerker some might expect, but definitely funnier than it seems. It's more fun than nostalgic, but it's never empty of touching, aww-inducing moments. The creatures of Hundred Acre Wood are as adorable and optimistic as the beloved children's book characters, particularly Winnie the Pooh whose unassuming naivete can melt anyone's heart with his simple but meaningful questions, and Eeyore whose chill contentment brings out the laughs and things to ponder.

The simplicity of A.A. Milne's characters translated to Marc Foster's version appeals to children and adults--young-at-heart or not. As always in his stories, it's always about warmth, love, kindness, and connectivity with one another. Pooh even once commented here that "People say nothing is impossible but I do nothing every day". Makes so much sense even though it could also sound absurd. Jim Cummings, who is known for Pooh's voice, provides a comforting and familiar sound to the beloved character who often delivers simple life thoughts that surprisingly turn out to be thought-provoking.

Ewan McGregor as Christopher Robin and Winnie the Pooh; Photo Credit: Walt Disney Studios

Ewan McGregor's charisma as the adult Christopher Robin is very evident. His boyish charm plus acting chops work well for the role. But it's his on-screen wife and daughter, Hayley Atwell & Bronte Carmichael, that capture the heart of the film whose longingness for a happy and complete family outshines the whole film's spectacle.

Ultimately, this is about the value of family and friends over anything in the world. A cute little reminder that they matter more than anything else. We need movies like this from time to time, and we could use a little bit of this film's heart and soul right now. If anyone wants to clap, now is the time to do it.