Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure: Review by William Mortensen Vaughan

 Title:  Dora's Christmas Carol

Adaptation:  Featuring the voice of Caitlin Sanchez as Dora

Dates and Places of Earliest Release:  

TUE, 3 NOV 2009, U.S.A.

 

My Rating:  ** (Substandard)

Format Reviewed:  animated film, on DVD

 

Runtime:  48 minutes

 

Availability:  

As of November 8, 2021, copies of this film, on DVD, are available, online, for approximately $5 U.S. Dollars.

Is this adaptation reverent? 

This adaptation is not particularly reverent.  Although it is intended for children, it has an emphasis on commercialism.

Does this adaptation mention "God" or "Christ"?

[T.B.D.]

 

Does this adaptation include the phrase "God bless us...?" 

[T.B.D.]

What does my wife think of this adaptation? 

She's neither impressed nor amused..

Where and when does this adaptation take place?

The North Pole, circa 2010

 
What language and/or dialects are used?  

American English

How closely does this adaptation follow the original novel, by Charles Dickens?

This "adaptation" isn't a legitimate adaptation; it is an unrelated story with the phrase "Christmas Carol" incorporated in the title, presumably to boost marketing.  This story is about Dora the Explorer (voice of Caitlyn Sanchez) traveling through time to help someone get off Santa's naughty list.  Harry Chase provides the voice of Santa Claus.  The only thing this adaptation seems to have to do with A Christmas Carol is its title.

Is this adaptation a prequel or a sequel?  

No.

Is this adaptation supernatural? 

Yes.  Santa is treated as a real person, and Dora has the ability to travel through time.

Is this adaptation "framed"?  

No.

Is this adaptation a musical?  

No.

 

What songs and/or dances are included?  

How many original musical numbers and/or dance routines are included?  Various original musical numbers are included, such as "Noche Buena" [Christmas Eve (literally "good night")] in mixed Spanish and English.

How attractive and effective is the visual art?  

The art is simple but attractive.

How creative and intense are the transitions, especially when "the Scrooge" is taken from one time and/or place to another?

The cartoon transitions are acceptable.

 

What aerial and/or nap-of-the-earth footage is included?  

N/A

 

What use is made of background extras?  

N/A

What is the most remarkable thing about this adaptation? 

The most remarkable thing about this adaptation is that it's about Santa Claus and not Ebenezer Scrooge.
 
What bonus material is included on the DVD? 

Chapter selection is available on the DVD, as well as two Special Features, which include two music videos and a behind the scenes featurette.