The Phoenix and the Carpet (1997 serial)

The Phoenix and the Carpet is a six-part British television serial adaptation of E. Nesbit's 1904 novel of the same name. Produced by the BBC, it aired in 1997. The serial follows the adventures of Cyril, Anthea, Robert, and Jane (the Bastable children) and their baby brother, as they discover a magical carpet that transports them to different times and locations when they make a wish upon it. A talking Phoenix hatches from an egg found within the carpet and acts as their guide and advisor, though his advice isn't always reliable, leading to various comical and precarious situations. The serial stays relatively faithful to the original book, emphasizing the children's curiosity, resourcefulness, and occasional misadventures as they navigate the consequences of their wishes. It is a children's fantasy program aimed at a family audience. The serial has been broadcast on BBC channels and has sometimes been available on home video.