Dad and lad: New 'Charlotte's Web' retains classic spirit

Dad

Grade: A

What's good: Well written, well cast and well produced. An instant classic .

What's not: Slow at times and maybe a little too much talk of killing good old Wilbur for the little ones.

Lad

Grade: B+

What's good: Charlotte was a nice spider, and she was a good friend to Wilbur.

What's not: There were times I got a little bored.

The classic novel by E.B. White is now a "classic" film as "Charlotte's Web" finally makes its live action debut on the big screen. Most have read the story or seen the 1973 cartoon, but everyone will enjoy this retelling.

One of the oldest and best stories of friendship, the story begins with runt of the litter, Wilbur (voiced by Dominick Scott Kay), facing certain death as his owner feels he will never grow large enough to produce some good bacon. After the farmer's daughter, Fern (Dakota Fanning), pleads to save Wilbur, he allows her to keep the pig as a pet.

From here, Wilbur is introduced to the other animals on the farm voiced by the likes of Robert Redford, John Cleese, Oprah Winfrey and Cedric the Entertainer. All befriend young Wilbur,but know his ultimate fate.

Things change when he saves the life of the spider Charlotte (voiced by Julia Roberts). She vows to make sure Wilbur lives a long and healthy life and from here, amazing things begin to happen. The friendship that develops between Wilbur and Charlotte is the heart of this story and in the end saves his life.

Director Gary Winick ("13 Going on 30") spins his web of story telling in a way that holds true to the book. Lad was entertained throughout, laughing at the right times and even tearing up toward the end. This movie is a must see for all families this holiday season. Treat yourself to this "humble pig" of a tail.