I have always had mixed feelings about the Peanuts gang, and this movie has done nothing to change that.  The bottom line is that if you loved the comic strip, or the television specials, you will enjoy this new version, which is quite faithful to Charles Schulz’s vision of childhood.

Steve Martino’s film splits its attention between Charlie Brown’s quest to have the Little Red-Haired Girl notice him and Snoopy’s daydreams about the Red Baron.  Snoopy is a wonderful character but I have never understood his fascination with the Red Baron, or flying his red doghouse as a World War I fighter plane.  I just don’t get it.  On the other hand, Charlie Brown’s dilemma is universal, and as poignant as it can be.

The characters are familiar and funny.  Mostly; I fear what Lucy will be like as an adult.  Sadly, some (Schroeder, Pigpen, Sally) have almost nothing to do.  And key elements of the story are not followed through properly — what was the outcome of the book report?  And then there is the ending.  It’s kind of like Schindler’s List; all of a sudden the tone changes and someone explains just how great the main character has been the whole time.  The moment is powerful, summarizing Charlie Brown’s universal appeal, but I’m not sure it’s organic.  If you’re a CB fan, you’ll love the moment, and the movie.  ☆ ☆ 1/2.  2 Dec. 2015.