Pet Lessons from the Stars of 'Charlotte's Web'

E.B. White's "Charlotte Web" is the tale of a pig named Wilbur and his friend Charlotte the spider, who uses her wits (and help from their barnyard friends) to save Wilbur’s life. It’s a story about heroism, forming lasting friendships, keeping promises, and discovering the spark of love.

Opening on Friday, Dec. 15, the big-screen version of this beloved children’s classic features some of Hollywood's best actors, including Julia Roberts, Dakota Fanning, and Steve Buscemi. Beliefnet’s Sherry Huang met with some of the actors and creators of "Charlotte's Web" and asked them why the book has such a lasting appeal, what it felt like to portray an animal, and what humorous and meaningful pet experiences they’ve had.

Dakota Fanning (Fern)

Pet Experience: My first pet that I can actually remember was my horse, which I got a year ago. I also have a dog, which I just got five months ago. They've taught me a lot just about responsibility and the importance of taking care of [my pets].

On reading the book: I've read it so many times since I was very young, and I read it while I was doing the movie and afterwards, and it was great to see all those things come to life as we were filming it.

On being Fern: I think there’s such an important relationship between Fern and [her friend] Henry Fussy, because it symbolizes Fern growing up and becoming more interested in her appearance and wanting to do other things as well--not just wanting to go to the barn. [Fern and I are] probably similar in that way. I definitely haven't really thought about boys or anything like that, but I know that will happen eventually.

"Charlotte's Web" is such an iconic story that so many people know. So many people have an idea of what Fern's like, and I had to combine all of that along with other people's renditions of her--and portray that in the movie. My mom loved this book very much, and Fern was her favorite character. It was great to see those pages that she had read so many times come to life.

Core message of the book: I think the movie teaches the simple things that people sometimes forget in life, like not judging someone, really getting to know a person, being a good friend, and the importance of living everyday to the fullest.

I had a terrier as a kid. The dog's name was Murphy. Then later on I had a mixed terrier that I named Chief  when I was working as a firefighter, but [Chief] wasn't a dalmation. I guess with Chief-- being the first real pet I had to take care of by myself--I learned it was a huge responsibility.

I like him. He's funny, and he's a non-sentimental character. He finds a way to help out, but he also takes care of himself at the same time. He's just brutally honest. He can probably find a kinder way to say things, but he doesn't care. He's a rat and he reacts to how people react to him. A lot of people just have a phobia about rats or just misconceptions, so his attitude is warranted.

I think Templeton does have a big heart underneath it all, and that is a part of what's appealing about the character. And he's not just only looking out for himself; he is able to appreciate certain things in life that are important.

I always resist boiling down any movie to what the message is, because I don't want to take that away from the audience going in. But the movie does have a lot cool themes about friendship, loyalty, survival, life and death, keeping someone's memory alive, and acceptance. And it's done with a lot of heart and with a lot of humor.

Continued on page 2: What it's like to be a gander and a crow... »