'Extremely heartfelt' Julia Roberts film that left fans in tears now streaming for free

A beloved children's film that reduced audiences to tears is now available to stream for free on ITVX. Millennials will likely recall watching this movie repeatedly during their younger years, and for good reason.

Released in 2006, Charlotte's Web drew inspiration from E. B White's timeless 1952 book, which had previously been transformed into the 1973 animated musical.

The story centres on a touching bond between Charlotte the Spider (brought to life by Julia Roberts) and Wilbur the Pig.

Upon discovering that Wilbur faces the threat of being killed, Charlotte, assisted by the farmer's daughter Fern, devises a plan to rescue him by spinning messages about him into her web, reports the Mirror.

At its core, this family film teaches valuable lessons about genuine friendship and the natural progression of life and death.

Child star Dakota Fanning took on the role of Fern, whilst Hollywood heavyweights including Oprah Winfrey, Steve Buscemi and John Cleese voiced various farm animals.Gary Winick, who directed the successful romantic comedy 13 Going on 30, took charge behind the camera.

As you'd expect for a children's production rooted in a cherished novel, Charlotte's Web proved enormously popular with both audiences and reviewers.

The film achieved a remarkable 79% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics lauded the production in their summary, stating: "Kids will be entertained by the straightforward plot and cute animals, and adults will be charmed by how quiet and humble the production is, a fine translation of E.B. White's genteel prose."

Cinema-goers were equally captivated, with one writing: "It was so exciting to see this tender story hit the level of live action. This quaint tear-jerker never falls short of being emotionally moving and great."

Another fan on Google Reviews praised the film's emotional depth.

"Only movie that can make a grown man sad about a spider. Extremely heartfelt movie with an amazing and long lasting message about caring and friendship," they commented.

Meanwhile, an IMDb user shared their family's experience: "I saw this movie with my two sons and wife and we all enjoyed it. We were very familiar with both the book and original animated movie, which we highly enjoyed."

They added: "My sons found many things to laugh at and the darker moments, (not wanting to spoil anything for anyone who does not know the story) are handled deftly so sensitive children will not get upset. An excellent family movie."

Charlotte's Web is streaming now on ITVX