**Review: *Zog and the Flying Doctors* (2020)**
*Zog and the Flying Doctors* is a heartwarming animated short film that expands on the charming world of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s original *Zog* (2018). Perfect for young children and families, this sequel delivers a simple yet uplifting story about kindness, teamwork, and defying expectations.
### **What Works Well**
– **Story & Themes** – The film follows Princess Pearl, Zog the dragon, and Sir Gadabout as they form the “Flying Doctors,” helping those in need across the kingdom. Pearl’s determination to be a doctor (rather than a traditional princess) is a great message about following one’s dreams. The plot is easy to follow, with gentle humor and a warm, positive tone.
– **Animation & Style** – Bright, colorful, and faithful to Scheffler’s book illustrations, the animation is engaging without being overly flashy. The flying scenes are lively, and the character designs are full of personality.
– **Voice Acting & Music** – The returning cast (Lenny Henry as Zog, Patsy Ferran as Pearl) brings warmth and energy to their roles. The songs are short and sweet, adding fun without slowing the story.
### **What Could Be Better**
– The runtime is quite short (around 25 minutes), so some viewers might wish for a bit more depth or adventure. However, this makes it an ideal choice for younger children with shorter attention spans.
### **Final Thoughts**
*Zog and the Flying Doctors* is a delightful, feel-good film that reinforces positive values while keeping young audiences entertained. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s a worthy follow-up to *Zog* and a great choice for family viewing.
**Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – A charming, wholesome adventure that’s perfect for little ones.**
*Best for ages 3-7 and fans of Donaldson & Scheffler’s other adaptations.*
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