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The title gives away the premise of the latest Veggie Tales DVD (their 27th!).   Combine the Biblical account of the prodigal son with the classic _Wizard of Oz_ movie, tweak it slightly, give a few of the songs the Weird Al Yankovic treatment, and we're off and running.

Darby O'Gill (Junior Asparagus) is a bored son of a Kansas dental floss farmer.  He wants nothing more than to have fun. When his father informs him they can't afford it, he sulks.  With some encouragement, he makes up his mind to run away from home with his college money in hand.   One tornado later, he and his dog Tutu (who strongly resembles a pig) land in Munchieland.  With some help from Splenda, the sweet but not fattening fairy, and an aptly named Yellow McToad, he sets off for the land of Ha's.   Naturally, he meets a bored scarecrow (Mr. Lunt), a tin man who wishes to ride roller coasters (Larry the Cucumber), and a listless lion (Pa Grape) who desires cotton candy. 

All is well for young Darby, until his trust fund is depleted.  At that point, he is out of the Ha's theme park, out of food, out of cash…and out of friends.   How is his situation resolved?  Let's just say he learns the lesson that "getting what you want has a price."   

Also featured is a Silly Song called "Monkey," featuring Larry and Bob the Tomato.   Reminiscent of the Marx Brothers "Hooray for Captain Spaulding," it delivers giggles for kids and adults while Larry insists that anything not having a tail must be an ape.   Mr. Lunt's version of "Over the Rainbow" plays over the closing credits.

This DVD is amusing, and often laugh out loud funny.  The parodies of the original movie will delight older viewers, while the younger audience laughs at the absurdity of it all.   With music by Andrew Peterson, Randall Goodgame, and Fleming & John (!), the soundtrack is of a very high quality.  Definitely in the upper half of the Veggie Tales catalog. 

Brian A. Smith
30 September 2007