In theatres today: Dr. Seuss' The Lorax

The much-anticipated Dr. Seuss' The Lorax movie finally opens today in theatres. And how fitting as today also marks the 106th birthday of the man behind the magic — Theodor Geisel, or Dr. Seuss, as we know him. For generations, his incredible imagination has brought children and parents countless memorable tales. The story of The Lorax was one I wasn't too familiar with until recently when I watched the original 1972 TV special now available on Blu-Ray/DVD. You'll see why I think you'll enjoy this modernized Lorax tale just as much as the original classic.

For the kids
This latest film adaptation goes a little deeper than the book, and the original special — and it's a full hour longer than that 70s version. Some may find the Once-ler character a little creepy and his scenes are a little dark (perhaps scary at times), but I, along with a row full of kids of all different ages at an advance screening, was captivated by this film overall. The masterminds behind the 2010 hit, Despicable Me, knew what they were doing when they envisioned this Dr. Seuss' classic in 3D-CG. The colours are bright, crisp and the 3D feels like it's going to hit you in face — in a fun way!

For the parents
Adults, you've got Danny DeVito as the gruff, yet charming, Lorax; Ed Helms (The Office, The Hangover) as the young and strapping, Once-ler; and Betty White, as a granny thrown in there. What more could you ask for? This will be a family outing you won't regret. This flick is entertaining for all ages, from the singing and dancing musical numbers to the overall emotionally charged story about what happens when people stop caring.

Spoiler Alert
The never-berfore-seen — not even in the book or original TV special — mysterious character, known as the Once-ler, is brought to life in this version.

Length: 86 minutes
Rated: PG for brief mild language