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This is sterling stuff. A charming film that all the family can watch. Jeremy Irons is really believable as the single father of Danny Smith. Together they hatch a plot to do down wealthy landowner Hazell, played excellently by Robbie Coltrane. It is Jeremy Iron's heartwarming performance that I enjoyed most however, and he works incredibly well with his son Samuel. Their relationship is a joy to watch. I've rarely seen a father and son relationship portrayed so touchingly on screen. Good supporting performances too, from Cyril Cusack and Jimmy Nail among others. I can't think of better actors who could have played the characters in the film. Also lovely music and views of the English countryside. The film is quite evocative of the time it was set in (1955). Great that it's coming out on Region 2 DVD, I think this film deserves more recognition as it definitely captured the spirit of the book.

I agree with the other comments, this was great entertainment. I have some episodes on videotape. Seeing them again recently reminded me of what a cool cartoon it is. The characters were all cleverly created and fun. We have the matriarch, the smart one, the greedy one, the grumpy one... And a villain, Duke Igthorn, for good measure. The stories were varied and original, with both Gummis and human characters. Action was often centered around the castle. One of the best episodes was the one with the magical hat and escape from the castle. Excellent theme music also. Loads of magic and adventure with few dull moments! It's a shame this isn't seen much anymore, as it easily beats all those spin off series Disney made in the 90's.