Hildegarde (2001)

I expected nice, light, but not too conventional movie with a cute animal and one of my favorite actors. I got only the last two things. Plot became predictable far too fast, but it wasn't that worse. When it was revealed that dad of kids died, general atmosphere of movie started to be too teary and pathetic (including crybaby Jeremy) and it discouraged me the most. Schematic plot was the next bad thing, especially when main characters, maybe except Isabel, weren't likable at all. Typically written villains resulted in terribly waste of potential - Richard E. Grant is one of the best actors I know and here his character is reduced to being howling, unfunny maniac. Only Hildegarde and other animals were nice in watching.If you want to show your children adventure movie with animal, better look for something else.

Three children in Australia, Chris, Jeremy, and Isabelle, have lost their beloved father. Their newly single mother is struggling with her dual roles as mother and chief breadwinner. Therefore, Chris is put in charge on the day that she needs to go away on business. Chris leads his younger siblings to town, where they are to enjoy a rare breakfast at a restaurant. But, they see a large, wildlife tent run by Wolf (Richard E. Grant) and can't resist the chance to go inside. Once there, they see many animals, including a duck that LOOKS like Hildegarde, their much-loved pet bird. Racing home to check on Hildegarde and her nest in a nearby pond, they discover that, indeed, Hildegarde is missing and her eggs are in danger. But, Wolf moves on to a neighboring town with Hildegarde and company. How can the kids get their pet back? And, what are Wolf's intentions toward the animals under his care, anyway? This is a terrific family film that will please everyone who sits down to take it in. The children are very winning and the darling duck, although not on the screen nearly enough, is an absolute joy to watch. Grant, a wonderfully talented British actor, plays the heavy here with ease. The scenes in Australia feel familiar and exotic at the same time and the film looks very well-made and attractive. If you love animals, you can't miss this one. But, in truth, families forever searching for suitable films for their brood will find Hildegarde an outstanding and touching choice. It's certain that, after a showing, everyone will be waddling off to bed in a happy, happy mood.

My Friend and I refused to watch anymore of this movie.This was For three major reasons.1> It had a bad story line.2> was very badly shot(with a lot of cruddy camera work).3> all the actors were TERRIBLE.Especially Wolf and little girl.But generally everyone over-acted.Hildegarde was a great letdown to me, but I guess alright for the kiddies as they will like the really bad baddies and the really good goodies.But from my point of view a very lazy film that I could of probably done if I tried.All in all-If you're into crummy movies that have a clichéd plot ( or if you may be a kid). . .than this one is for you!

It's nice to see a film that's not violent and has positive messages aimed at kids. This film is charming and funny, with plenty of adventure and drama. Everyone will love the duck in the title role. She's so cute.The Australian countryside is beautiful to look at, the performances are great, especially Richard E Grant as the villain.It will be especially good for little kids because although it's dramatic, it's not scary, like so many violent kids films today.