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Creatures from Dr. Seuss and the Brothers Grimm are featured in this weeks new DVD releases.The Lorax, Grade A-minus: In an almost doomsday scenario, the film looks at what happens to the environment when the last Truffula tree has been cut down. Its a cautionary tale aimed dramatically at young and old.

That message is just as strong in this animated version of the book, but it has been cushioned slightly by a fun musical soundtrack and a budding love story. You will want to hug a tree after watching Dr. Seuss The Lorax and a few humans, too.From the opening number a musical flash mob to a fast-paced chase scene, the screenplay by Ken Daurio and Cinco Paul keeps the essence of the original book while giving it a sense of fun. The pair who also wrote the very funny Despicable Me  have created a band of wonderful supporting characters who provide big laughs.This strong story is visually splendid.

Season One Grade A-minus: The approach to this NBC series is to have fairy tales based on real world creatures that now prowl the Pacific Northwest. Its up to Portland homicide detective Nick Burkhardt the last in the long line of creature fighters, to close the book on the evil creatures.

One reason this series is so good is Silas Weir Mitchell, who plays Burkhardt's wise-cracking sidekick and is far smarter about the ways of the weird than his police buddy. He brings a touch of humor even when the pair battle creatures that inspired the stories of The Three Little Pigs and Hansel and Gretel.
py