If I'm honest, there isn't a ton to say about Disney's new movie 'Christopher Robin.' There are no big reveals or any surprises with broader implications to the hundred acre wood universe. It is charmingly simple, just like Winnie the Pooh, and that is what makes it so enjoyable.
The movie is directed by Hollywood chameleon Marc Forster, who also directed World War Z and Finding Neverland. It drops us into the hundred acre wood just as Christopher Robin is saying goodbye to his friends and his childhood in general. In many ways, it plays out just as you'd expect. Christopher Robin grows up to forget all about his childhood and becomes an all work, no play, semi-deadbeat dad. At this point, it's up to Pooh, Tigger, Piglet and the rest of the gang to set him straight.
If there is one fault of the film, it is that it tries a little too hard to use pooh to speak to the audience. Winnie the Pooh has always been a simple, yet insightful friend to Christopher Robin. He fulfills that role in this film as well, but his insightfulness is a little overwhelming. It's almost like he is trying a bit too hard to set Christopher straight, so it comes off a little disingenuous.
All that being said, Pooh still charms the entire family. It is good for what it is and a perfect reminder of the magic of childhood for grown-ups who have long since left their magical play lands behind.
Final Rating: 7.5/10