The Snail and the Whale join the likes of The Gruffalo and Stick Man in offering a beautifully told and animated short story that teaches - or reminds, as the case maybe - of some important life lessons. Beautifully animated, this is a short - just 27 minutes - fun-packed adventure that can be enjoyed by the whole family.Īdapted from another book by hugely popular kids' author Julia Donaldson, this 27-minute adventure is perfect family viewing. As well as courage, perseverance, curiosity, and teamwork, the film celebrates friendship, and manages to do so without any of the messaging feeling forced. These perilous situations are short-lived and allow the film's positive messages to come to the surface. With the clock ticking, the snail is given the chance to be the hero, as it shows courage and perseverance in going to get help. The biggest moment of jeopardy comes when the whale finds itself beached on the shore. There are occasional moments of threat as the pair's adventure includes an encounter with sharks, while the snail is constantly worried about being eaten by seagulls. The snail, who is voiced by Oscar-winner Sally Hawkins, is offered the chance to realize its dreams of seeing the world, when a kindly humpback whale ( Rob Brydon) lets the snail board its tail. Parents need to know that The Snail and the Whale is a heartening adaptation from a book by Julia Donaldson ( The Gruffalo, Zog) with tons of positive messages. Although not specifically marketed in the film, tie-in merchandise is available. Julia is also much in demand for her brilliant events for children at schools, libraries and literary festivals.The film is based on a popular kids' book. Julia Donaldson is one of the UK’s most successful picture book authors, whose titles regularly appear at the top of the bestseller lists - most notably the acknowledged modern classic and Smarties Gold Award winner THE GRUFFALO (3 2), together with ROOM ON THE BROOM (8 2) and THE SMARTEST GIANT IN TOWN (4 7), all illustrated by Axel Scheffler. His has a wicked eye for character and his humorous drawings are the perfect complement to Julia’s witty, vibrant verse. But when disaster strikes and the whale is beached in a bay, it’s the tiny snail who saves the day.Īxel Scheffler has achieved worldwide acclaim for his illustrations, and his books have been translated into over 27 languages. Together they go on an amazing journey, past icebergs and volcanoes, sharks and penguins, and the little snail feels so small in the vastness of the world. One tiny snail longs to see the world and hitches a lift on the tail of a whale.

Snail from snail and the whale