PREVIEW - Charlotte's Web (U)

Director/Producer Gary Winick (Letter to Juliet, Bride Wars) brings one of the most beloved stories of our time back to the big screen.
Loved and adored by generations of children and parents alike, the magic and loving tale continues to be an important part of our childhood.

Since it's original adaptation from book to screen in 1973 with the release of it's animated feature of the same name a follow up sequel to the original storyline entitled Charlotte's Web 2: Wilburs Great Adventure was released 30 years later.
Since then fans have been crying out for a live action release of the classic tale and that's what Winick has given them and it doesn't disappoint.
Joined by a fantastic recognised cast with names at every spin of the web from the great John Cleese, Robert Redford and Julia Roberts to the young star Dakota Fanning, it's no coincidence that the films has attracted this calibre and array of stars.


Winick's film is a true reflection of the original book released in 1952 by author E.B.White and illustrated by Garth Williams.
Charlotte's Web is a classic tale of the runt of the litter pig Wilbur who is saved from slaughter by the innocent child of Fern (Fanning) who keeps him refuge in a barn amongst the farmyard animals.
It's here where the magic starts.

All around Wilbur is a array of animals with a mind and voice of their own from Samuel the Sheep (Cleese) and Ike the Horse (Redford) to Templeton the Rat (Buscemi). However, it's the spider nestled in the corner of the barn Charlotte A. Cavitica who steals the show.

As Wilbur grows up, the fear of his death grows as Ferns dad contemplates Wilbur's life. This is where the star of the film Charlotte comes in, her delicate and loving voice sets her apart from the other animals and in many ways is Wilbur's guardian angel as she watches over him.
Charlotte uses her web to spin words and phrases towards Ferns dad, the most recognisable being "some pig".
After this an influx of people visit the farm purely to see the new star Wilbur and soon Mr Zukerman decides he should take advantage of this, he showcases Wilbur at a local fair for best pig and saving Wilbur from certain death.

The story of Charlotte's Web has many meanings and structures by it's without a doubt that it's grounded in the rhythms of the natural world that reiterates the cycle of life, death and reproduction.

The film could be interpreted in another way, Charlotte has saved Wilbur's life by making him famous it is therefore, fitting that Wilbur should be surrounded by a host of real-life stars throughout his journey.

If you adored the book you will love this film.

*Winick’s adaptation of E.B. White’s classic is destined to achieve the same status for its combination of heart, humour and gorgeous production values* 

Michael Adams

*Superior voice cast and Fanning's unforced charm make for another film that'll put you off pork forever*

Total Film

Watch the trailer for Winick's interpretation of Charlotte's Web below;



Charlotte's Web is showing at Gloucester Guildhall for ONE DAY ONLY on Thursday 30th May at 3pm.