A wonderful "Indiana Jones" caliber adventure

Rating: 7/10 (27 January 2012)

Animated films, having emerged from the shadows of second-tier theatrical status by the likes of Pixar, still derive their elemental success or failure from the quality of the writing. The Adventures of TinTin, a swashbuckling adventure adapted from the French comic books of the same name, is a delightful example of how great writing can combine with animated artistry to craft a wonderful film.
With the measured guidance of Steven Spielberg as its director, Adventures of TinTin sails effortlessly in a captivating but never overwhelming adventure of intrigue, humor, revenge, and harmless peril. TinTin, with his delightfully realized dog Snowy, exhibits a deft balance of action and story development that makes it impossible to look away as its story unfolds.
The story's title character, Tintin, embarks unknowingly on his adventure when nefarious characters become darkly fascinated with his purchase of a model ship from a street vendor. Realizing there is more to their interest than the ship itself, Tintin follows his instincts in a rousing worldwide adventure replete with fascinating characters, delightfully dislikeable bad guys, and a rousing conclusion, all wrapped in an unmistakably "Indiana Jones" themed and paced story. Combined with an Oscar-nominated score by the legendary John Williams, TinTin earns a hearty recommendation for adults and children alike.
The Adventures of TinTin is a hallmark for Spielberg, who provides a 3D version despite the fact it hardly needs it. A great story, converted into a visual medium by a great director, rarely needs such gimmickry, and TinTin surely falls in that class. You won't have to don 3D glasses to enjoy this fine film.
If only others borne of the 3D preoccupation would work so hard to create something even half so good, the entire movie-going world would benefit.
Bravo, Tintin!