Review of 'Terry Pratchetts Hogfather'

This is the first of Terry Pratchett's Discworld novel to be adapted as a live action mini series. Originally broadcast for Christmas by the UK's Sky One satellite television station the effects are not bad but a bit pale when compared to the equivalent typical big-screen movies.

The Hogfather is the equivalent of Santa Claus in the Discworld, delivering toys to good boys and girls on Hogwatch Eve. Problem is, it is Hogwatch Eve and the Hogfather has gone missing with a rather odd stand-in doing the Hogfather's round – Death. Along with Albert, his obedient assistant (well, assistant anyway), Death is out delivering what Hogwatch cheer he can (without scaring the life – literally – out of the populace). Susan, Death's grand-daughter, tries to get to the bottom of the situation, a journey that takes in the Unseen University, the Assassin's Guild and the Tooth Fairy. Can she figure out what is going on in time to save Hogwatch? Can Albert eat all of the pies?

The cast perform quite well particularly Michelle Dockery as Susan and David Jason as Albert (better known for his role on the classic British sit-com Only Fools and Horses). I was also pleased to see Tony Robinson (of Blackadder fame) make an appearance as the shop-keeper.

Overall, an enjoyable romp. Here's hoping they will get a bit more money next time when they adapt the next Discworld novel…

Rating: “Really good but I have some issues”

Review Date: 2007-07-11

Directed by: Vadim Jean

Studio: 20th Century Fox

Year: 2006

Length: 185 minutes

Genre: Fantasy

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765458/