Babes in Toyland

Babes in Toyland is a 1986 American Christmas musical television film directed by Clive Donner that stars Drew Barrymore, Richard Mulligan, Eileen Brennan, and Keanu Reeves. Based loosely on Victor Herbert's 1903 opera of the same name, the movie has a touch of fantasy combined with a Christmas setting and is a festive musical adventure ideal for children and families.

Drew Barrymore, a celebrated child star at the time, plays Lisa Piper, a spirited twelve-year-old from Cincinnati. Known for her rational mindset and sense of responsibility, Lisa is focused on her job in a local department store where she works alongside her older sister Mary (Jill Schoelen) and Mary's boyfriend, the modest and kind-hearted, Jack Fenton, portrayed by a youthful Keanu Reeves.

The plot takes a mystifying turn when Lisa is transported, in a Wizard of Oz-style whirlwind, to a magical parallel world while trying to save her younger sibling from an oncoming vehicle. This world is Toyland, a place where toys are made for Christmas by none other than Mother Goose (Eileen Brennan) and her collection of storybook creatures. Toyland, however, isn't the idyllic wonderland as you might expect. A sinister figure, Barnaby Barnicle (Richard Mulligan), has an evil plot that threatens the joy and tranquillity of Toyland. He is bent on seizing control of Toyland and to marry Mary, who, in this reality, is an innocent maiden betrothed to Jack.

Babes in Toyland is a delightful mish-mash of beloved fairytales and nursery rhymes. Characters like Humpty Dumpty, Little Miss Muffet, Simple Simon, and the Three Little Pigs all live in Toyland, making children's literature reality. The film is filled with catchy musical numbers that are sure to get the young ones bopping along. And if kids aren't already thrilled by the live-action fairy tale and enthralling songs, there's also an incredible sequence of stop-motion animation where the toys spring to life—a marvel in the mid-eighties television production.

Drew Barrymore's Lisa Piper is the central figure and heroine of this adventure. Despite her youth, Barrymore displays a maturity and determination that makes Lisa a relatable and admirable character. She is the voice of reason in a land filled with nursery rhyme confusion, stepping up to save the day and restore order in Toyland.

Richard Mulligan is captivatingly wicked as Barnaby. He embodies the cartoon villain obscenely with his exaggerated expressions and evil laughter. The dastardly Barnaby, with his eccentrically sinister plans, is a character children love to hate.

Eileen Brennan delivers a warm depiction of Mother Goose, balanced with a practical wisdom. Her Mother Goose provides the comforting and nurturing essence that you would expect from this iconic character. She shines in her musical numbers, her unique and vibrant voice bringing the lyrics to life.

Keanu Reeves, in an early role, surprises with his singing chops while embodying the earnestness of Jack Fenton. His portrayal of the young and naive Jack is appealing, solidifying this character as a protagonist worth rooting for.

More than just a holiday film, Babes in Toyland is a celebration of childhood imagination. The film explores elements of courage, friendship, love, and believing in magic, all while relishing in the Christmas spirit. The set design, with its distinctive eighties style, adds to the charm of the film. Bright colours and larger-than-life structures create an enchanting, dream-like Toyland that is a delight to behold.

All in all, Babes in Toyland can be summed up as a whimsical journey filled with familiar characters, ear-worm songs, and feel-good holiday cheer. The film's earnest portrayal of the classic tale, accompanied by a charismatic young cast, makes it a timeless Christmas staple for children and those young at heart. It is a heartwarming, festive confection that celebrates the magic and innocence of childhood—a real treat during the holiday season.