More than a film...an experience!

Rating: 10/10 (8 August 1999)

Think about the first time you saw the original Star Wars, or E.T., or whatever movie kept you glued to the seat in awe...your heart in your throat, and your mind totally transported to another place. This is what "The Iron Giant" was like for me. This movie is made for all of us 20-something animation junkies who have been caving an intelligent, fun, emotional trip to another era. Parents who take their children to see this masterpiece will get so much more out of it than the tykes will. I think people who remember the early stages of the cold war (which I don't, I wasn't around yet) will watch this film with a nostalgic eye, while those of us who remember the last stages of the Vietnam War will see analogies to the anti-war sentiment of the time. Their are many metaphors spread throughout the course of the film, giving everyone something relevant to the era of their upbringing. Do yourself a favor, and catch this one at a later showing, you'll want to avoid all of the kiddies who's parents are too rude to keep quiet...then take your favorite niece or nephew to a matinee (but be kind enough to make them view the film respectfully and quietly).