Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom

Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom is showing at Vue Cinema in Oxford from 17 to 22 October, just in time for the Halloween run-up. It's a stop-motion adventure that fits the season, and since it's running across six days, you've got plenty of room to slot it in around your other plans.

The story starts on Mossy Bottom Farm, where everyone is looking forward to Halloween until the clumsy Farmer trashes the flock's beloved pumpkin patch. Shaun decides to take matters into his own hands, turning 'Mad Scientist' to fix the mess, but things quickly spiral out of control: the Farmer goes missing and a wild beast starts roaming the woods of Mossingham. It's billed as a monstrously fun family adventure, and the whole thing runs 80 minutes, which is a good length for keeping younger ones focused without dragging it out.

Behind the scenes, the film is directed by Steve Cox and Matthew Walker, with Justin Fletcher, John Sparkes and Kate Harbour involved. It carries a U rating, so it's safe for all ages, and the stop-motion style means it's as much for the adults who appreciate the craft as it is for the kids. If you're taking the little ones, it's a straightforward way to get them into the Halloween spirit a bit early.

Tickets start from £6.49, and you can catch it at Vue Cinema, which is over at Ozone Leisure Park on Grenoble Road, OX4 4XP. With the run going from 17 to 22 October, you can pick a day that works for you.