Why do critics hate Ice Age so much?

Rating: 10/10 (2 April 2006)

There are many critics' reviews I have read about Ice Age: The meltdown that were highly critical and dismissive of this movie. As an adult (38) who saw this film on its opening weekend, all I can say in response is hogwash. This was a highly enjoyable story with likable characters in a visually stimulating animated film.
Obviously Mannie Mammoth gets more focus in this film with the usual ongoing comic commentary provided by his sidekick Sid the Sloth. The real victim in this sequel is any important story points or action for Diego except for his one major fear. I did find that part of the story lacking but this lull was easily made up for by the rest of the plot. I plan to go see this movie again at the theater and then I'll add the DVD release to my collection to be a companion to the first Ice Age DVD set. This is a great film for children of all ages (8-80).
Knowing how well Scrat was received by fans of the first Ice Age, Scrat gets even more acorn action in this sequel. I began to feel bad for the poor Saber-tooth Squirrel but you have to admit he is a shining example of perseverance. His voyage to the great beyond for his eternal reward and resulting interference by Sid was absolutely fantastic and hysterically funny. I went out today and bought my Scrat "Goin Nutz Scrat" Interactive Electronic toy. He now has an honored place in my bedroom next to my model of the Starship Enterprise. Who knows when Scrat may want to join Starfleet to find the Planet of Eternal Nuts in the Acorn Nebulae.