Madeline: Lost in Paris

Parents will thank heaven (and Disney) for these little girls: This charming direct-to-video animated musical — based on Ludwig Bemelmans' books about a Parisian poppet and her 11 schoolmates — puts the redheaded orphan in the care of her Viennese uncle, Horst (Alexander), who turns out to be anything but trustworthy. In addition to lilting melodies and vibrant visuals, this sprightly 'toon addresses the true meaning of family with a light touch; there are even a few funny bits thrown in for grown-ups (the police artist, sporting beret and goatee, sketches the suspect a la Magritte and Picasso). Madeline: Lost in Paris is, truly, a Madeline worth remembering. A