Plot: What’s it about?
We’ve all the heard the amazing story of the reindeer named Rudolph, but what about his son, Robbie? Although Robbie is out of shape, lazy, and unfocused, his father wants him to earn a slot on Santa’s sleigh, no matter what it takes. So Robbie tries to train himself into shape, but he has a lot of factors against him, including his own distaste for hard work. A fellow reindeer named Blitzen dislikes Robbie’s father and as such, has decided to make sure he never makes the team, by hook or by crook. If Robbie fails to earn a spot on the team, Rudolph will be humiliated and that is just what Blitzen wants to see happen. At the same time, Robbie finds himself in romantic issues as well, since he is being tempted by the gorgeous Vixen. On his side is Donner however, who helps him to stay focused and unknown to Robbie, has a crush on him as well. The battle to win a place on Santa’s team will be tough, but can Robbie somehow manage to make it?
This is an unusual, but very entertaining holiday tale, with an out of shape reindeer as the star. I was quite taken with Hooves of Fire and it looks like a lot went into the production, from the animation to the music to the voice talents. The animation is much like the style used in Aardman’s projects, such as Chicken Run. It looks terrific here as well, with detailed characters and smooth, clean movements throughout. This is some top notch work all around and since a lot of attention to paid to details, the visuals are rich and a pleasure to explore. The music was done by Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits fame and is very cool, with just the right texture to mesh with the material. On the voice talent side, quite an impressive cast has been assembled, although most are British stars, so not all of them will be household names in the United States. I was pleased to see Harry Enfield (Kevin and Perry Go Large) and Rhys Infans (The Replacements) involved, as both are known for memorable performances. In the end, Hooves of Fire is a terrific and very entertaining feature, so I recommend it to anyone interested.
Video: How does it look?
Hooves of Fire is presented in a 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. I was unable to spot many defects with this transfer, as the visuals look superb and the animation is showcased in fine form. I saw minimal grain or wear signs on the print, while colors seem bold and true, though often more natural in scope, as per the material’s demands. No troubles on the contrast front either, as black levels are stark and well balanced, so detail is never obscured. A few very minor flaws keep the score down, but this is still an excellent looking visual transfer.
Audio: How does it sound?
As this is not the kind of release that uses power audio, the included Dolby Digital 5.1 option is good, but not quite great. The elements are well presented and never want for much however, so I see no reason to complain much. The vocals sound clean, crisp, and remain at a proper volume at all times, while the music is just as impressive here. I found the sound effects to be well presented and the speakers kick in when they need to, but this is no action flick, so keep those expectations in check, ok? This disc also includes a Dolby Digital 2.0 option, as well as English subtitles, should you need those choices.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc has a nice assortment of extras, including an audio commentary track with director Richard Goleszowski. The director is often talkative in this session, but often just recaps what’s being shown on screen. You can find a new tidbits shoved in there, but on the whole, I was let down with this commentary session. I think fans will be thrilled to find the complete animated storyboards also included here, which I think is the best of the extras found on this disc. This disc also includes a brief behind the scenes featurette, cast & character bios, and a selection of still photos.
