Clifford's Really Big Movie

Charming and harmless. Nap while your kid enjoys.

When clapping broke out close to the end of Clifford's Really Big Movie -- the clapping of little hands, I might add, and not big ones -- it felt as spontaneous and as heartfelt an expression of youthful joy as I have heard in a long time.

A slightly distended version of the television program, here voiced by some of the best actors in the animation business, including the late, great John Ritter in the title role.

It's not dreadful, just dull.

Though not exactly a gripping experience for adults, parents have reason to be grateful for a movie that has been so carefully tailored to preschool to first-grade sensibilities.

So, how big is Clifford's Really Big Movie? Maybe too big for a toddler's britches.

Some children might find Clifford's tale on the tame side, but at least as many parents will be happily surprised by the warm and cuddly tone.

Clifford's Really Big Movie is easily consumed and disposed of entertainment for the small fry...