Hedgehog poised for virtual-reality movie stardom

Oculus is hedging its bets that an adorable critter named Henry can help convince consumers - and Hollywood - about the viability of virtual reality as a storytelling medium.

The VR company, which Facebook acquired for nearly $2 billion last year, debuted a 10-minute narrative experience starring the lonely hedgehog Henry during an invite-only event on Tuesday at a private mansion in Beverly Hills.

Inside, guests donned consumer versions of the Oculus Rift headset and were offered a 360-degree glimpse into Henry's cartoony home as his birthday wish magically came to life.