Cast
View AllLisa Vischer
as Junior Asparagus / Aaron (voice)
Mike Nawrocki
as Belthasar - Larry / Jerry Gourd / Mai - Jean Claude Pea / Oscar the Polish Caterer (voice)
Phil Vischer
as Ben Haramed - Nezzer / Ali - Mr. Lunt / Pa Grape / Melchoir - Bob / Gaspar - Archibald / Bernie - Jimmy Gourd / Oui - Phillipe Pea / Percy Pea (voice)
Dan Anderson
as Dad Asparagus / Benjamin (voice)
Emma Watkins
as Mom Asparagus / Leah (voice)
Keri Pisapia
as Laura Carrot (voice)
Maggie Roberts
as Annie (voice)
Miles Fuqua
as Baa-Baa / Samson the Donkey / Joshua the Camel (voice)
Gloria Ballard
as Choir (voice)
Kurt Heinecke
as Choir (voice)
Laura Neutzling
as Choir (voice)
Brian K. Roberts
as Choir (voice)
Dustin Ballard
as Crowd Extra (voice)
Brian Calhoon
as Crowd Extra (voice)
Leeeric Fesko
as Crowd Extra (voice)
Crew
Director
- Brian K. Roberts
Writer
- Mike Nawrocki
- Mark Steele
Producer
- David Pitts
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy represents a fascinating example of Animation/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Brian K. Roberts brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2011, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 46 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 68 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 262 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Sorcerer's Apprentice, which focuses more on action than character development, VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Polar Express and Cars 3 explore similar territory, VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 4, 2011
- Runtime: 46m