A must see for children of all ages!

Rating: 10/10 (13 November 2004)

I am very critical of most movies, especially ones where I have read the book. This movie out did everything I expected. If you have read the book there are some changes but it only adds to the depth that the book took us toward the North Pole. If you appreciate great artistry you will love the animation in this film. The motion capture procedure they used is nothing short of amazing. To watch these animated characters come to life in front of you on the screen is a real treat for those of us who appreciate the complexity of CGI. If you don't go for the story just go to enjoy the animation. The level of detail in this film is fantstic. I was captivated at several points in the film just looking at the level the creators took the detail down to. Even the smallest parts of the train are finely detailed, the buildings at the North Pole, the way each character moves or runs, how the clothing and characters interact, how the hair moves, well, just about every detail you can think of.
Now for the story. I have read this book to more children than I can remember for many years. I have read it in women's shelters to children who resemble the little boy who thinks that Christmas just doesn't work for him. I have never experienced anyone who was not enthralled with the story and did not want to hear the bell ring when I gave them one. I have worn a bell on Christmas day since the first time I read the book. The movie does the story justice. It actually expands upon the world created by the author. I would suggest going in and letting the "magic" exist inside of you for a couple of hours.