Chris Noonan's adoring bio-pic tells the story of Beatrix Potter, the early 20th-century children's author who created Peter Rabbit and Mrs. Tiggywinkle. With the success of her books, Potter (Renée Zellweger) trades her passive timidity for control of her destiny, including a chaste affair with her simpatico publisher, Norman Warne (Ewan McGregor). The story's tidbits of domestic melodrama are dispensed with kid-glove reserve. Don't look for any darkness to be revealed: Miss Potter remains warm and cozy. Thus, we never truly feel the frustration that fuels Potter. But if you adored the books as a child, you'll be charmed by the film's unwavering affection and respect for their author, whose mildly inspirational story Noonan gilds with lovely scenery and lush sets. Starts Fri., March 9. (AH)
