Have grown to be something of a fan of Rabbit Ears Productions and really do wish that their output was more widely known. There are very few production companies out there with filmographies with very few if any bad projects, but Rabbit Ears Productions (despite having reservations with some) is one of them. 'The Lion and the Lamb' is one of the adaptations in their Holiday Specials series running from 1991-1994, the most dominant holiday being Christmas.
While liking to loving all their seven Holiday Specials, 'The Lion and the Lamb' is a strong contender for the best of them. For me though, Rabbit Ears Productions did even better overall of all their numerous 80s and 90s childrens literature adaptations where there are countless gems to be found. Found 'The Lion and the Lamb' very beautiful, emotionally impactful and heart-warming on first viewing years ago, it's still beautiful, emotionally impactful and heart-warming now.
'The Lion and the Lamb' has very, very little to criticise. The human drawing is occasionally lacking in finesse.
On the other hand, the rest of the visuals are great. The wintry countryside landscapes are actually quite stunning. The music does nothing to overshadow what's going on, a beautiful match in quality with the visual style and pleasantly understated orchestrally. As well as both mysterious and occasionally elegiac in rhythm.
Nothing wrong with the writing either, which had the right balance of simplicity and maturity. Making it perfect for all ages and the whole family, the line quoted in the above summary is very apt today. The story is slight but it isn't too deliberate and it is gentle and full of charm. As said earlier too, it is very heart-warming and filled me with both hope and tears.
Both Christopher Reeve and Amy Grant narrate beautifully and sympathetically. Don't have a preference other either here as they equally impress. The titular characters are very well written, well fleshed out and easy to root for, neither made to act too cute.
In conclusion, lovely. 9/10
