Return to a simpler life

MANILA, Philippines - “Winnie the Pooh and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood are among the most entertaining and beloved characters ever animated by Disney,” says John Lasseter, executive producer of the new animated feature, Winnie the Pooh. The film is shown exclusively at the Ayala Malls Cinemas (Glorietta 4 and Greenbelt 3).

“Literally borrowing a few pages from the great award-winning theatrical shorts of the ’60s that were created by Walt Disney and his team of legendary animators and storytellers, our directors, Don Hall and Steve Anderson, have done a fantastic job telling a fun and emotional new story,” Lasseter continues. “It’s a true joy to see these characters back on the big screen, and I know it will appeal to the child in everyone.”

Winnie the Pooh (voice of Jim Cummings) is a self-described “bear of very little brain,” but the lovable bear who’s stuffed with fluff has an uncommon, clear-eyed philosophy that is admired worldwide. “There’s a wisdom to Winnie the Pooh that comes through in a very subtle way,” says producer Peter del Vecho. “It’s about enjoying friends, enjoying family, enjoying life. It returns us to a simpler time.”

Pooh is a loyal friend to his neighbors in Hundred Acre Wood. He’s always willing to lend a helping paw — and he’s more than happy to share a jar of honey with anyone who is interested. Indeed, Winnie the Pooh has an endless craving for honey or a smackerel of whatever is at hand to soothe that insatiable “rumbly in his tumbly.”

Piglet (voice of Travis Oates) is a soft-spoken and skittish little fellow whose generosity and humility far outweigh his meager size. His fastidious movements, anxious wringing of his hands and adorable stutter — “Oh d-d-d-dear” — convey his nervousness and fear of the unknown.

Tigger (voice of Jim Cummings) is an exuberant, one-of-a-kind creature with the famously springy tail. He acts on every impulse, and his boisterous manner often leads him to leap before he looks. Tigger’s bouncing is a pure expression of his utter zest for life — a joy he’s always eager to share with his friends.

Eeyore (voice of Bud Luckey) is everyone’s favorite delightfully dismal donkey. But Eeyore doesn’t see himself as gloomy — he just has low expectations. He’d likely be shocked — and perhaps somewhat disappointed — to learn that he takes center stage in the new film.

Owl (voice of Craig Ferguson). Everyone knows that owls are the wisest of all creatures, and Owl knows everything — at least, he thinks he does, even if his information (and his spelling!) often turns out to be not quite right. Although Owl can be a know-it-all, he wants to help his friends.

Rabbit (voice of Tom Kenny) is perhaps the smartest of the Hundred Acre Wood friends (at least he thinks so), and is often the self-appointed leader of the group.

Kanga (voice of Kristen Anderson-Lopez) — Mom to Roo — is a warm, protective kangaroo. She certainly has her hands (and pouch) full with young Roo, but she manages him with love and patience.

Roo (voice of Wyatt Hall) is a wild young adventurer who wants to go everywhere and try everything.