Opened: March 1, 1973

Directed by: Charles A. Nichols & Iwao Takamoto

Starring: Debbie Reynolds, Henry Gibson, Paul Lynde, Agnes Moorehead, Don Messick, Herb Vigran, Pamelyn Ferdin, Martha Scott, Bob Holt, John Stephenson, Danny Bonaduce, William B. White, Dave Madden, Joan Gerber & Rex Allen

Containing a sophisticated message that may go over the heads of its young audience, Charlotte’s Web is a brilliant animated film based off the beloved novel.

Fern (Pamelyn Ferdin) saves piglet Wilbur (Henry Gibson) from being slaughtered when he’s born the runt of his litter. As Wilbur grows and finds out that he’ll be killed for food, he desperately wishes not to die. Spider Charlotte (Debbie Reynolds) helps to save his life.

Reynolds voice is wonderfully comforting in Charlotte. She’s full of wisdom and sass, and her singing voice is beautiful. In contrast, Paul Lynde is also fantastic as the conniving rat Templeton, who has a good heart despite his loathsome ways.

While the animation isn’t as clean as you’d see from a Disney film, there’s a nostalgia that’s created from the rough edges.

Final say: Heartwarming and heartbreaking. ★★★★★