The holidaze are coming. And don’t be a stick in the mud about it. Be a Stick Man instead.

From Magic Light Pictures, the makers of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom, come this beautifully animated adventure that tells the tale of Stick Man and his epic adventure across the seasons in order to make it home to his family in time for Christmas. This film, to be released on DVD by Public Media Distribution, LLC on November 8, is  based on the beloved children’s book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Stick Man  will also be available for digital download.

While out for a jog, Stick Man is carried away from his family tree by a mischievous dog eager to play fetch. As he tries to make his way back to his “Stick Lady Love and their stick children three,” things only get worse as he finds himself farther and farther from home. Alone and weary, Stick Man longs to be reunited with his family for Christmas. Will a chance encounter with Santa Claus be his ticket home?

What a joyous hoot. What talented performers. Martin Freeman voices Stick Man, Hugh Bonneville voices Santa, and the story is narrated by the absolutely fabulous Jennifer Saunders. Also helping bring Donaldson’s alluring and bouncy rhymes to life in this heartwarming family treasure are Rob Brydon, Sally Hawkins and Russell Tovey.

In addition to featuring this charming tale, the DVD includes a behind the scenes documentary about the transformation of the delightful book into a captivating film. In this 20-minute video, viewers are treated to a look into how the design of the characters and environments came about, and the creation of the beautiful film score.

Watch. Savor. Repeat. Do the mall haul. Season’s greetings!