“This deliciously inventive comedic animated feature stands a good chance of being the key competition for Disney’s Finding Nemo in the upcoming race for year-end awards laurels. Boasting nostalgia and universal humor among its many charms, the story revolves around the enterprising Madame Souza and her grandson Champion, who has a gift for bicycle racing that she encourages in every way. Over the years, as post-war construction radiating out from Paris begins to overrun their suburban home, Champion trains relentlessly. When the young man — now grown up and in superb shape — wins a spot in the legendary Tour de France, the plot kicks into high gear: Champion, bringing up the rear in a grueling mountain leg of the race, is kidnapped by two evil men in black who are involved in a heinous scheme involving the French mafia. Madame Sauza, together with her faithful dog Bruno, sets off to rescue Champion on a voyage that will take them to the fabled megalopolis of Belleville and three fabulous singers who were once the toast of Paris.” -PSIFF 2004