"“Lots of farts, burps and bogeys – I know for a fact, that a ten year old me would have loved that…”"

Amidst the pandemonium for the release of the latest and final Harry Potter movie, comes the debut release and beginning, of the cinematically adapted, highly-successful children’s book stories, Horrid Henry: The Movie.

The Horrid Henry franchise, which boasts nineteen published titles by author Francesca Simon, amassing much acclaim and esteem over the past 17 years since its 1994 debut, is finally releasing its first feature length movie. Horrid Henry was also as successful on the television, as the BAFTA nominated show became children’s network CITV’s most successful ever series.

The premise to the story of Horrid Henry is simply about a school kid named Henry, who, living up to his namesake and reputation, is quite a horrible little brat, with a refusal to do any homework, and a tendency to play pranks on those around him, bothering teachers and fellow peers alike. Comparable to that of the famous Just William series of the early 20th century; children love a rebel - the kid that will do anything for a laugh and the accreditation and endorsement of his friends.

Therefore, the story-line is as expected – Henry (Theo Stevenson), through the art of pranks and mischief, antagonises the school inspectors, resulting in his school being closed down. Battling against teachers, his parents and nemesis, Moody Margaret (Scarlett Stitt), he then has to go against all he believes in, and keep his school from shutting, infuriating rival Head Master Vic Van Wrinkle (Richard E. Grant) in the process, who is determined to lure Henry and friends to jump ship. Not to mention the talent show Henry is desperate to win.

As well as promising performances by the younger members of the cast, including a humorous performance by Henry’s smarmy little brother Perfect Peter, played by Ross Marron, the film features a host of performances by some of British television’s favourite comedic actors. Performers such as Matthew Horne, Anjelica Huston, Noel Fielding, Prunella Scales and Jo Brand make appearances, as the film attempts to reach out to an older audience, attracting both parents and children alike.

However, despite not having much authority on the matter (I’m no longer under 12 years of age, or parent any of my own), I didn’t really enjoy the film and felt that it was simply limited to the enjoyment of a child, and one that is a fan of the series.

I suppose that is essentially a good thing as the primary target audience are children, and the film will clearly appeal and reach out to them, thus making the film a success, but I can’t say many parents will leave the cinema planning on buying their children the film on DVD this Christmas.

Also, it made me feel quite old, due to being the film’s leading antagonist. I’m usually siding with the hero, wanting him to succeed. However, in this case, I fall into the category of the baddies, otherwise known as adults. I kept feeling myself thinking, “Henry, mate, if you don’t get started on your homework, you’ll never get the grades you need…” defeating the object of the film somewhat.

I think the problem is when conducting a well thought out opinion on a children’s film, is that it’s so difficult not to compare to the high standard of other children’s entertainment that currently exists. Some of Pixar’s recent films, such as Wall-E for example, are emotionally charged, intelligent productions. There is a poignancy and significance to their work that makes the film equally appreciated by both children and adults alike. And when comparing this to such features, I can’t help but be disappointed. I think that perhaps it’s down to the fact Horrid Henry isn’t animated. Animations are able to appeal to anyone, as children or adults can relate to toys, or monsters, or fish for example, but generally, as is the case with this particular film, only children can really relate to fellow children.

The film is also being shown in cinemas as a 3D production, which barely makes a difference to the film at all. I appreciate 3D when used correctly, and in the right circumstances it certainly can add to the overall experience for the viewer, however, when a film is just set in a school and the characters are merely children, teachers and parents, 3D just seems a little unnecessary. Having said that, I don’t think I have seen 3D used to much better effect than when Henry picks a bogey, before proceeding to roll it into a ball in preparation for flicking – all in intense 3D. That was cool.

But overall, considering the hype and popularity surrounding the Horrid Henry series, I was disappointed. It lacked any real poignancy or sentiment, and was simply a silly film, solely for kids. But, when putting myself back in the frame of mind of being ten years old, which is imperative when analysing the film - I can’t help but feel that I would have enjoyed it. Lots of farts, burps and bogeys – I know for a fact, that a ten year old me would have loved that.