A Classic Among the Common

Rating: 9/10 (6 December 2004)

In today's mega-movie world, we are bombarded with movie after movie in the weeks before Christmas. Our culture is becoming so jaundiced and our entertainment expectations so exaggerated, that we often fail to see genius before our very eyes. This movie is genius - pure and simple.
Some critics have seen the genius in this movie, but many have not. Only in 20 or 30 years when we have forgotten The Incredibles, Sponge Bob, and The Kranks, will the Polar Express keep chugging and tugging at many of our hearts.
I'm certainly not a kid anymore but when I see a movie like this, I yearn to be one again and, for a short time, I am.
This is certainly not the most joyful movie ever made about St. Nick, but it is certainly one of the most memorable and meaningful. Even if you forget about the animation (which is spectacular) and focus only on the message, you should be moved to believe.
Nor am I surprised that the IMDb readers have not rated this movie much higher. "It's a Wonderful Life" was poorly received in 1946 when it was first released, and it is now one of the highest rated movies on this website. I wonder what its rating would be if it were released today?
If you see this movie, see it with an open and unassuming, childlike mind. You should not be disappointed.