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Opening with a "Book Club" segment, the DVD follows its logical progression into a story loosely based on author Mark Twain's writing. Our narrator is "Clark Wayne," who bears a suspicious resemblance to…Colonel Sanders.  "Big Jim" is a former convict who is toiling for Mr. Dooley's lumberyard.  After five years, he just longs to go home to St. Louis to be reunited with his mother, so they can rekindle their singing partnership. Set in 1904 against a Mississippi River backdrop, our story portrays Big Jim's escape, his meeting up with Tomato Sawyer and Huckleberry Larry, a couple of homesteaders about to make their claim official. After an initial scare, they reluctantly agree to help Jim raft down the river to St. Louis.  Along the way they run into a couple of rogue Dukes, try to elude Dooley and his henchmen, and realize that not helping someone in need is the same as hurting them. Pay attention on this one, adults.  While the usual broad humor is present here, there are many subtle digs both in dialogue and scenery that will make you chuckle, if not laugh out loud.  Personally, I laughed more at this movie than I have in several years at a Veggie Tales movie. Also included is a "Silly Song with Larry," "The Biscuit of Zazzamarandabo."  Featuring music by Andrew Peterson and Randall Goodgame, the short portrays a Vacation-like quest to reach the landmark in the title, complete with several stops, both scheduled and unscheduled. Is Big Jim reunited with his mother?  Will Bob and Larry be able to get home in time to claim their land?  Will Clark Wayne become a successful chicken magnate?  I've given enough spoilers ­ go watch the movie. 

Brian A. Smith 
15 November 2008