FernGully

Dear Caitlin,

As you know, I have quite a collection of video tapes. I do not go out of my way to get them, but have a squiz in the VHS section of all op shops, market stalls and garage sales. I do have a list of films that would be ultimate for my collection. And while that list is continuously growing, there are one or two that are just impossible to find at these locations. (I'm positive most households still have one lying around somewhere-I was even in possession of one as a child.) I am talking of course about Fern Gully. (Or is it the one word?) This masterpiece has helped me grow up with a sense of humour, an appreciation for nature and a curiosity about lab-tested animals (could they really talk to humans?).

Well Caitlin, I was in Cronulla's St. Vincint de Paul last week. They happened to have 50% off everything store wide. I looked at the Video section first (as it is very conveniently situated right near the front door). It was overloaded with old-school videos. I managed to find two copies of Labyrinth (YES DAVID BOWIE!), The Muppet Christmas Carol, Wallace and Gromit, Strictly Ballroom, series 5 of X-Files and a whole lot more. As I turned to head up to the back end of the store (usually where the childrens videos are kept), a big plastic storage tub caught my eye where my feet just were. I should have politely asked if I was aloud a sticky beak.. But I held back for no one.

Yes, Caitlin. I found Fern Gully! I whooped and cheered, blocking off the entrance to the popular store. And I promised you when I found it to give you the highlights after watching it.

So many highlights!

First, Maggie (I always think of noodles when I hear her name) has flowers grow in her trail. HOW FLIPPIN SWEET IS THAT?!

Second, Zac tells Crysta that she is "One bodatious babe". To which she replies "Tubulour!"

But my absolute favourite part that I quote at least once a day is a line from Batty:

"Human tales? Humans don't have tails. They have big, big bottoms that they wear with bad shorts. They walk around saying 'Hi, Helen!'"

I still laugh, everytime.