This little film is my favorite cat's namesake. This is one of those numerous movies I first came across when I was six but was never able to find again ( the same case as with Freddy FRO7 and Milo and Otis, etc. ). However, on a recent trip to the library, lo and behold they had it!
The plot is quite simple. Duckling gets stranded when his family flies south for winter. Now what does he do? Why, that's where Volie ( or however you spell his name ) comes in. This charming, lovable little fellow teaches Sean to survive, and our young duck friend ends up using Volie's teachings to save his little friend.
Suffice it to say, this is a very lovable, enjoyable movie ( you call it a special, I call it a movie ). The main character, Sean, is a good character and carries the story well. But the character who really steals FSOW is Volie. There have been very few instances when I was more charmed by a character than I was with Volie. He's what made me remember this little gem after so long.
The animation in this one is borderline gorgeous. It often has the feel of a watercolor painting come to life.
The music is lovely, and I always find myself dancing with the jig sequence ( easily the most memorable part of the movie ).
In closing, " The First Snow of Winter" is an absolute gem, with a big heart and great quality besides. Definitely worth ~thirty minutes of your time.