If you have Sky Movies then there’s a chance that your little one has already watched The Amazing Maurice to death. However, if you don’t, then the home entertainment release of The Amazing Maurice is the perfect gift for young minds. Based on the story by the late Terry Pratchett, the animation sees a talking cat called Maurice (Hugh Laurie), his human companion, Keith (Himesh Patel), and their band of rats travel from town to town pulling cons on unsuspecting villagers. But when they arrive in the stricken town of Bad Blintz they find themselves doing battle with a maniacal Rat King. Aided by aspiring writer Malicia (Emilia Clarke), the group must find a way to vanquish the threat.
Anyone familiar with the writing of Terry Pratchett will know that his works are quirky and whimsical with The Amazing Maurice a perfect example. Simultaneously old world and modern, The Amazing Maurice crosses time to create a story that kids of all ages can enjoy. The cast of characters are a rag-tag gang of misfits, each with their own distinct personality, opening the possibility that any one of them will become a new favourite. As engaging as the characters are, younger children may struggle during a few moments as The Amazing Maurice revels in its villains. The Rat King is especially sinister and may even give adults a scare or two as well.
The voice cast is a star-studded affair. In addition to the central trio of Hugh Laurie, Himesh Patel, and Emilia Clarke, The Amazing Maurice features the vocals of David Tennant, David Thewlis, Gemma Arterton, and Hugh Bonneville. Laurie and Tennant are perhaps the highlights as the titular Maurice and the rat’s spiritual leader, Dangerous Beans, but everyone puts in the hard work. The production was especially difficult as it was created entirely within the pandemic, but one would never know it had been constructed remotely.
For those that have already discovered The Amazing Maurice, the Blu-ray and DVD includes some extra features. There’s a wonderful making of documentary that will delight and educate curious young minds, as well as an adventure with Mr. Bunnsy, making it a great purchase for those crying out for new Maurice content.
May half-term is just around the corner, with the summer holidays not far behind; The Amazing Maurice would make great rainy day viewing. An animation that, thanks to Pratchett’s writing, plays well across the age board, The Amazing Maurice is a film to enjoy with all the family.
The Amazing Maurice
Summary
A lovely animation that captures the heart and spirit of Pratchett’s prose, The Amazing Maurice is an entertaining adventure for all the family.
The Amazing Maurice is out to own now via Dazzler Media.
