The Wind in the Willows

The 1987 Rankin/Bass version of Wind in the Willows is simply the best version of the story that I have seen today. The film remains very true to the story with only some minor variations (Portly becomes Badger's nephew instead of Otter's son), has some catchy songs (my very favorite is the one sung by the weasels and stoats as they have overrun Toad Hall), and does a wonderful job of characterization (Moley is insecure but loyal, Ratty is dreamy, Badger is gruff yet compassionate, and Toad is, well, Toad)! More importantly, I think the film better than any other has captured the true essence of Grahame's original work, something most film versions have just not been able to do. This was always one of my favorite movies as a child, and I long for it to be released on DVD! It is a truly great movie!