Watch The Land Before Time XII: The Great Day of the Flyers

The Land Before Time XII: The Great Day of the Flyers is an animated adventure film directed by Charles Grosvenor and part of the long-running Land Before Time series that began with the classic 1988 film directed by Don Bluth. This direct-to-video installment continues the saga of young dinosaurs learning valuable life lessons in a prehistoric world. Released in 2006, it encompasses themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness. It's a family-friendly movie that combines charming characters, music, and a heartwarming narrative to capture the imaginations of children and those who are children at heart.

The narrative focuses on Petrie, a young pterosaur who is having difficulty preparing for an upcoming event known as the "Day of the Flyers," where all flying young dinosaurs must participate in an aerial display that showcases their flying abilities. Petrie is filled with anxiety as the day approaches, for he struggles to fly in formation, unlike his more synchronized siblings. His unique style of flight leads to self-doubt and worry about not fitting in or letting others down.

Voiced by Jeff Bennett, Petrie's character embodies the anxiousness and insecurity that can come with trying to meet the expectations placed upon individuals in society. The film delves into his emotional journey and the support he receives from his friends, as they understand and encourage him to embrace his differences and find his own way.

John Ingle provides the voice of the wise and gentle Narrator, who also serves as the elderly dinosaur Mr. Threehorn. His warm and authoritative voice imparts the film's messages and lessons to the viewers throughout the story.

Nick Price voices Littlefoot, the caring and curious Apatosaurus, who is both the series’ central character and Petrie's closest friend. Littlefoot is always there to offer a supportive word or a helpful nudge to his nervous companion. He’s an optimist at heart, often leading his friends in their various adventures and misadventures throughout the Great Valley and the mysterious areas beyond.

Aria Noelle Curzon brings to life the character of Ducky, the enthusiastic Saurolophus who is known for her positive outlook and her catchphrase "Yep, yep, yep!" Ducky’s unwavering support and joyful disposition provide a sense of comfort to her friends as they navigate their challenges.

Rob Paulsen adds a comedic flair to the film in the role of Spike, the mute but expressive Stegosaurus, who is adopted by Ducky's family. His actions and reactions provide physical humor and non-verbal communication that often says more than words ever could.

As the story progresses, The Great Day of the Flyers explores other themes through subplots, including the arrival of a new character, Guido, a Microraptor voiced by Rob Paulsen. Guido is unlike any creature the residents of the Great Valley have seen before, and his mysterious origins and inability to remember his past add to the intrigue. His character wrestles with much the same issue as Petrie – he is a flyer who cannot fly correctly.

Another subplot involves Cera, a tough Triceratops and another one of Littlefoot's best friends, having to take care of her new baby sister, Tricia. Cera's struggles with the responsibilities of being an older sibling provide humor and touch on themes of family and responsibility. It’s these interweaving stories, full of emotional development and growth, that set the stage for an enchanting tale about overcoming obstacles and finding one's place in the world.

The visuals of The Land Before Time XII: The Great Day of the Flyers serve up a colorful, vibrant world that's rich with lush landscapes and a variety of prehistoric creatures. Even though it is a lower-budget, direct-to-video release, the film still manages to deliver on the visual charm the series is known for.

Musically, the film features songs that are integral to moving the plot forward and conveying the emotional states of the characters. These musical interludes offer a mix of energy and thoughtfulness, providing young viewers with additional ways to connect with the film's messages.

The Great Day of the Flyers serves as an endearing, feel-good movie that children can enjoy while also learning important lessons. Its narrative highlights the value of individuality, the strength found in diversity, and the power of supporting one another unconditionally. For fans of The Land Before Time series and newcomers alike, this film delivers a dose of nostalgia alongside its educational and entertaining content, making it a pleasant addition to the family movie library.

The Land Before Time XII: The Great Day of the Flyers is a 2007 animated movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.