‘The Peanuts Movie’ is pure joy

Not all of us are spectacular. Some of us struggle to even get noticed. Folks like us need a hero, someone like Charlie Brown. The protagonist of Charles Schulz’s iconic “Peanuts” comic strip and the new “Peanuts” movie, Charlie Brown struggles mightily with feelings of insecurity and inadequacy. In the process, he gives a voice to all of us Muggles who weren’t born beautiful, talented or special.

“The Peanuts Movie” captures Charlie’s war with self-doubt and makes him a hero, in spite of himself. It’s a film that may be filled with more pure joy per frame than any other movie released this year.

“The Peanuts Movie” opens with the arrival of a new kid, who just happens to be the Little Red-Haired Girl. Charlie Brown is immediately smitten and desperately wants to talk to her, but he’s crippled by doubt and lack of confidence. He decides to learn to be a winner so he can impress the Little Red-Haired Girl, and maybe find a way into her heart.

Meanwhile, Charlie Brown’s dog, Snoopy, is penning a novel about a World War I flying ace. Snoopy’s little bird friend, Woodstock, acts as editor, trashing everything Snoopy comes up with. As a writer, I have to tell you, I could really relate to that.

Actually, a lot of what transpires in “Peanuts” feels relatable and genuine. Most of us feel inadequate in some aspect of our lives, whether it’s in love or work or creative endeavors. It’s actually heartwarming and inspiring to see Charlie Brown keep getting knocked down only to get up again.

Not only is “Peanuts” inspiring, it’s hilarious. The laughs come because it’s so easy to identify with what Ol’ Chuck’s going through. The visual gags work, too. The hand-drawn animated bits fit well with the tone of the movie, and Snoopy and Woodstock’s antics are priceless.

If “Peanuts” has any flaws, they are pretty nitpicky things. It’s not the most ambitious movie. All the bits that fans have loved for years are there, but it doesn’t go much further than that. And the soundtrack includes a couple lame pop songs that don’t really fit with the vibe of the movie and are a bit distracting. Other than that, there’s nothing to complain about.

”The Peanuts Movie” may aimed at kids, but you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy it. The messages about not giving up and being a decent person work well and feel less forced and phony than similar messages in other animated flicks. Best of all, it’s a fun movie. I had a big, dumb, happy grin on my face the whole time. If I were a betting man, I’d wager you’ll have a similar experience.

4 ½ Indy Fedoras out of 5

MOAA Rating: G