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Moon is a baby owl who gets out of the home nest and becomes trapped in the giant Christmas tree headed for The Rockefeller Center. It falls right into the middle of the skating rink and later befriends lost girl Luna.

This is a sort-of Disney Christmas special. Other than some of the voice actors, the only name I recognize is Alfonso Cuarón. It's partly his story. I am not familiar with it. It seems a little not that special and I don't find it all that memorable. Only the Rockefeller section really stuck. I like the stop motion animation. The designs are fine. It's a not-that-special special.

This cute little animated short follows the adventures of an owl named Moon who gets stuck in a tree that is carted off to Rockefeller Center, where he meets hostile pigeons, jealous dogs, and a friendly one-legged girl.

The look is distinct. The owls look like they're carved out of wood, and some people and objects look like cardboard cutouts. I'm unclear if there was any point to the look beyond hey, this would look cool, but it is interesting.

Unfortunately it doesn't work well with their people designs. The singing-narrator in particular looks creepy and weird, which is certainly not what they were going for.

The best thing is Natasha Lyonne voicing a street-wise New York pigeon. But then, Lyonne is pretty much always the best thing in whatever she's in, so that figures.

I wouldn't say this was a great short, but I did enjoy it and if you're looking for something to watch at Christmastime this is a pretty good option.

*An Almost Christmas*, Disney's delightful holiday short, is a heartfelt tale that explores the meaning of home during the most festive time of year. With its rich visuals, memorable characters, and emotional depth, the story follows the journey of a protagonist longing to be home for Christmas - though "home" proves to be more than just a physical place.

The short cleverly unpacks the universal truth that home is where love and connection reside, no matter the setting. Whether it's a cozy house, the company of loved ones, or simply a place filled with shared memories, *An Almost Christmas* reminds viewers that the season's true magic lies in the people we cherish.

Balancing humor, charm, and sentiment, the film delivers a poignant message perfect for all ages. It's a tender celebration of togetherness, a beautiful reminder that even when life's circumstances feel imperfect, love has the power to make anywhere feel like home.

(written on my behalf by AI)

Charming sounds just fair to define this lovely short film about friendship, meaning of Christmas, falling tree and the return home.

I loved the manner to craft the owls and pigeons and the Rockefeller and the taste of hot chocolate in the wam evening, maybe the Christ Eve one.

Difficult to not love it and be seduced at whole by a very simple story with fair dose of realism - Moon is adventurous like each child- , defisation risks and the contact with new world and tries of adaptations.

Not so coherent story but, exactly for this, seductive.

In short, a nice gift . A presumed classic for next years ? Why not !

An Almost Christmas Story is a delightful holiday short that perfectly embodies the magic of the season. This beautifully animated tale, directed by David Lowery and produced by Alfonso Cuarón, captures the spirit of Christmas with heartwarming storytelling, impressive animation, and an engaging voice cast. It is a must-watch that will appeal to audiences of all ages, showcasing the timeless values of friendship, courage, and the power of home.

Inspired by true events, the storyline follows Moon, a young owl who finds himself accidentally trapped in a Christmas tree headed to Rockefeller Plaza. Amid the hustle and bustle of New York City, Moon meets Luna, a lost girl, and together they embark on an adventure filled with wonder, laughter, and discovery. Their bond deepens as they navigate challenges and find their way back to their families, learning valuable lessons along the way.

Cary Christopher brings a lively innocence to the voice of Moon, while newcomer Estella Madrigal's portrayal of Luna is filled with warmth and earnestness. The supporting cast, including Jim Gaffigan as the wise Papa Owl and Natasha Lyonne as Pat, adds depth and humor to the story. John C. Reilly's performances of original songs as The Folk Singer infuse the short with a charming musical touch, enhancing its festive atmosphere. The animation, handled by 88 Pictures, is vibrant and detailed, creating scenes that are both stunning and immersive. My favorite part of the film is the breathtaking use of color and lighting. From the glow of the Rockefeller Center lights to the gentle hues of winter, the visuals encapsulate the enchantment of the holiday season. The attention to detail in every frame adds an extra layer of joy, making it a visual treat.

The core message of An Almost Christmas Story emphasizes the importance of resilience and companionship. It's a positive reminder that, even in the most unexpected circumstances, acts of kindness and courage can light the way. The film promotes teamwork and caring behavior, with no inappropriate language or risky behaviors to worry about for younger viewers.

I give An Almost Christmas Story 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, with adults likely to enjoy it as well. It premieres on Disney+ on November 15, 2024, just in time to warm hearts for the holiday season. By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST!