Were it not for the introduction of de rigueur 3D, this fourth computer-animated feature based on JM Barrie’s scantily-clad fairy would surely have fluttered straight to DVD.

The Secret Of The Wings is lightweight enchantment, which expands Tinker Bell’s universe into the magical realm of Winter Woods.

The contrast between the colourful flora of Tinker’s Nook and this snow-laden new landscape should provide the animators with myriad opportunities for visual invention.

Unfortunately, imaginative flourishes are in short supply and the level of detail of the animation on both characters and backgrounds merely adequate.

It is especially noticeable during major set pieces when Peggy Holmes and co-director Bobs Gannaway opt for long-range aerial shots to capture changing seasons.

The plot is as flimsy as one of Tink’s wings.

In the magical realm of Pixie Hollow ruled by Queen Clarion (voiced by Anjelica Huston), Tinker Bell (Mae Whitman) and her flighty friends busy themselves gathering berries and coaxing flowers to bloom.

Fairy Mary (Jane Horrocks) oversees the final shipments of baskets, which snowy owls collect and fly into the Winter Woods.

Curiosity gets the better of the mischievous fairy and Tink hitches a ride inside the last basket to the Winter Woods. A visit to the Keeper of the library (Jeff Bennett) reveals that Tink has a sister called Periwinkle (Lucy Hale).

They hatch a plan to smuggle Periwinkle into Pixie Hollow, unprepared for the repercussions of their actions. If the occasional coo of delight from young girls in the screening is any indication then Tinker Bell And The Secret of The Wings appeals to the target audience.

Vocal performances are solid and Holmes and co-director Gannaway’s sweet yet slight adventure has its heart in the right place. Unlike the fairies, though, the film never gains altitude.

TWO STARS