Just really, really good

Rating: 8/10 (18 January 2008)

If you have any tolerance at all for these animated Disney musicals, this one is sure to be a hit. The plot is good, develops throughout, and manages to be accessible to kids, whilst not talking down to adults. The humor has moments for both groups, as well, entertaining those with two digits in their age with pop culture references and clever comedy. The characters are well-done, interesting and credible. The voice-work is quite good. None of the actors really do badly. Jafar comes across as smart and menacing. Gilbert Gottfried portrays his part well, and his voice works rather well for Iago. Robin Williams... he's great. Some of the best material in the film is his, and he delivers it impeccably. Beyond reproach. Unless you can't stand him and his act, he's sure to get you laughing. The songs are good, well-performed, meaningful and more often than not, catchy. The pacing is spot-on, throughout. The color scheme is full and the animation, with its mix of 2D and 3D, is a pure joy to behold. The energy, creativity and, yes, even emotion, is impressive. The DVD offers, among other things, two commentary tracks(one for directors/producers and one for animators), and a pop-up trivia track, all of which are worth watching for those interested in such things. I recommend this to any fan of the actors and/or Disney animated features. 8/10