Animated Treasure.

Rating: 9/10 (19 December 2015)

The Polar Express (2004): Dir: Robert Zemeckis / Voices: Tom Hanks, Daryl Sabara, Nona Gaye, Peter Scolari, Eddie Deezen: Delightful computer generated animation about adventure and destination. A boy lies in bed on Christmas eve is awaken at the sound of a train. Outside he is invited aboard the Polar Express, which is on its way to the North Pole with other young passengers. On board he meets a girl with unearthed leadership skills as well as a boy with not enough humility, and a lonely boy who discovers what friendship is all about. Structure is divided into a series of events that obstruct their journey until arriving at a heart felt ending. Directed by Robert Zemeckis who has collaborated with Tom Hanks before in Forrest Gump and Cast Away, and here again the duo hit a broad note with this holiday wonder. Hanks voices several roles in this film including the conductor who claims to have been never late. This character is animated to the likeness of the actor himself, which adds appeal. Hanks also provides the voice of Santa Claus when he eventually surfaces. The animation is dazzling with detail ranking it among Zemeckis's best work. This is a thrilling landmark full of inventive storytelling as well as a strong message regarding friendship and trust. It is the best Christmas film of 2004, and should rank amongst the holiday classics. Score: 9 / 10