Gnomeo & Juliet – review

Gnomes haven't occupied much of a role in our popular culture since the days of prime minister John Major, and his eccentric elder brother Terry reminiscing about the garden ornament business that once brought their south London family to ruin. But it is the wacky world of gnomes that has been preoccupying Sir Elton John for the last 10 years or so; he has spent this time as executive producer developing this children's animation, updating the story of Romeo and Juliet to a modern suburban Britain of neat gardens with naff accessories. Here, two clans of gnomes are at war over the garden fence, and two star-crossed gnomes experience the pangs of forbidden love. The tale comes complete with classic hits from Sir Elton's back catalogue. As far as the comedy content goes: well, to quote a well-known song, it's a little bit funny. Not much more than a bit, but enough to make this a cheerful, likable children's picture with a big heart.