Great movie, bring the kids (or the kid in you)

Rating: 9/10 (16 March 2002)

Okay, first things first, this is NOT on the level of Shrek or even Monsters, Inc. in terms of the storyline nor the subtle (or not so subtle) modern references. TONS of cliches abound. But don't let that get in the way of your enjoyment. Watch it without being a grumpy cynic and you will come away satisfied for the $8 ticket you just paid. It's a film that will make you smile along the way and maybe sniffle at the end. This wasn't meant to be an astract masterpiece. It was meant as a fun for all ages film and it definitely succeeds. Basic storyline of 3 mammalian misfits coming together to save a baby boy. The voice casting was perfect. John L. is especially fitting as the clumsy sloth. The others barely have lines. The small rodent/squirrel is also good for some short comic relief along the way as he tries hard to bury its acorn. It was nice to see how they kept Manny's reason for being a loner mysterious until the (almost) very end. What made this movie enjoyable for me were the fantastic job the animators did with the whole body expressions. This is like watching a CG muppets/Sesame street. The fur and fat undulates, muscles stretch and contract conveying a very comical feel. Manny's fur and Sid's belly were especially well done. Unfortunately, they focused so much on the animals the humans were left as an afterthought; too robotic but you don't see much of them anyway. I also love how there were very little saccharine songs (ahem, Disney) to revolt you. It's wonderful to see how well CG (and people talent) is coming along. This presents a much more level playing field for the movie studios. Disney definitely doesn't own this joint which is a great thing since their stuff has been uninspired of late. I can easily (and heartily) recommend this film seeing as how the competition the last 4 weeks have been utter garbage. So go on, watch it and bring the kids!