Very very good!

Rating: 8/10 (8 November 2007)

I just got home from an advanced screening at my local theater, and all I can say is WOW! I must admit, when I first came into the movie theater, I was quite skeptical as to how good it would be, considering it's a modern Disney movie and all, but boy was I wrong. This was one of the best family oriented films I have seen in years. The entire theater applauded with vigor at the end of the movie. Truly an essential family movie-going experience.
I was following this movie for a while admiring the very interesting concept and wondering if Disney could pull it off. They did that and much more. This movie was a refreshing taste of comedy and the "happily ever after" love story. It did not follow the usual outcome however, I won't reveal what happened because you need to find out for yourself. I personally very much enjoyed this twist to the typical plot for this genre. The comedy seemed like it could appeal to all ages. They packed in many jokes perfectly into the plot. Not once did the comedy seem cheesy or even queer, almost every joke was funny. Very many parts of the old fairy tales were used in some parts of the plot, such as Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty. However they were used in such a stylistic manner that it all seemed to seamlessly blend together with the rest of the story. The villains were very hate-able, and the good guys were very lovable. Overall the plot was very solid and very well written. It carried all the magic and the entertainment factor of all the classics before it. 8.3/10
One thing that struck me upside the head, was the acting. The acting I felt was top notch for Amy Adams, the actress who plays Giselle. Her performance as a lost and confused princess from another world was very realistic and seemed to posses a pleasant flavor to it. I think I could see a potential Oscar nomination for her. Only time will tell though. The acting for the rest of the cast was very good. I don't have any nitpicks worth noting. 9/10
The sound mix was surprisingly good considering the film's Genre. Once again, another engrossing quality of the film. Skywalker Sound really does a good job with every film the do the sound mixing for. There were many ambient effects from all around the theater perfectly placed, which added a sense of depth to what was on screen. 8.5/10
My one big nitpick was the Music. I had no problem with the orchestral arrangements supplementing the vocals, (they were quite good in fact) but what killed me was the seemingly weak voice for Giselle. There was one musical number that took place in Central Park towards the middle of the film where I felt her character had to do a lot of strong singing, but it came across to me that the Music behind her vocal was stronger and more filled with emotion than the vocal that was supplied. However everywhere else I have no real problems. It was just that number that prevented me from swaying a little in my seat. 6.8/10
The Visual effects were very well done. (POSSIBLE SPOILER) There was one sequence that involved a massive dragon roosting at the tip of what I think was the Chrysler Building. The dragon seemed very believable, and the digital rain and lightning in the scene reflected very well off of the dragon's scales. I have no nitpicks here. 8/10
Overall this film was a magical ride fit for all ages. It houses comedy, fantasy, magic, and lots and lots of entertainment all in one reel. Definitely a movie to bring your family to this thanksgiving. Remember to buy lots of popcorn and candy! Nothing like making a movie which is already a great treat even better.
8/10