Albert

Albert is a heartwarming, holiday-themed animated feature film that premiered on Nickelodeon in 2016. The one-hour film is Nickelodeon’s first original animated TV movie, and it tells a compelling, feel-good story that captures the essence of Christmas, making it a beloved tale for children and families to watch during the holidays.

The film features an unusual protagonist named Albert who is, in fact, a tiny Douglas fir tree. Albert may be small in size but he's big-hearted and he has a gigantic dream: he aspires to become Empire City's most famous Christmas tree. Albert takes us through an enchanting journey of self-discovery, growth, friendship, and the true meaning of Christmas, filled with vibrant animation and delightful characters.

Central to the film is Albert's mission to track down Empire City's grandest tree and bring it back to his rural community in time for Christmas. Along with his best friends, Maisie, the palm tree, and Gene, the weed, they embark on a road trip filled with unexpected adventures and hilarity. Being full of determination and spirit, Albert does not let anything discourage him from his path, and he's always willing to push through any obstacle to fulfill his dream.

Voiced by Bobby Moynihan, a Saturday Night Live alum, the character of Albert comes to life endearingly. Moynihan perfectly encapsulates and brilliantly expresses Albert's vivacious personality and uplifting spirits, making Albert a memorable character for audiences. The supporting voice cast includes Judah Friedlander as Gene and Sasheer Zamata as Maisie, who both bring more laughter and depth to the movie with their brilliant performances.

The movie beautifully reflects the magic of Christmas and the spirit of dreams, persistence, and friendship. The script, penned by Aaron Eisenberg and Will Eisenberg, is witty and full of heart. There are humorous elements infused in the storytelling that keep it lively and entertaining for all age groups. At the same time, there are valuable lessons that the movie subtly imparts to its viewers. The film's theme resonates with the idea of believing in oneself and the power of dreams. It emphasizes that size does not define capability and that even small beings - like Albert - can have big aspirations and achieve them.

The animation in Albert is vibrant and top-notch, befitting a classic holiday favorite. The visuals do a wonderful job of creating a richly textured world that complements the narrative. The settings, expressions of characters, and detailing all contribute to making the film a delight to watch. The appealing animation style is sure to catch the fancy of younger viewers, while the storyline will keep older viewers engrossed.

The soundtrack of the film also deserves special mention, pairing well with the storyline and enhancing the viewers’ overall experience. The music, composed by Paul Buckley, includes festive tunes that perfectly capture the spirit of the holiday season. The combination of hilarious dialogues, enchanting visuals, and cheerful tunes make Albert a gem of a movie that viewers of all ages can enjoy.

Albert from Nickelodeon is not just a children's or an animated feature film; it's an unforgettable holiday experience that captures the essence of what Christmas truly stands for. Its playful humor, adventurous plot, and endearing characters make it an ideal watch for everyone in the family, creating a delightful unity of laughter, love, and lessons. At its core, the film is a story of friendship, dreams, and the beauty of believing in oneself, making Albert a charming and inspirational character and the whole movie a keeper for holiday traditions.