This is the best non-Pixar classic-formula Disney movie since The Lion King. Hell, I think it certainly deserves to be up there with the classics. The basic story never strays too far into originality, but the execution is top-notch, blending classic Disney with modernity almost perfectly; for instance, the banter and type of humour is something you'd never see in a classic Disney film, but it works really well to give it a 21st Century flair. Another obvious change is this being computer-animated rather than hand-drawn; this could've been a mistake, but it actually greatly improves the movie thanks to the way it's handled. Characters that look and act this way are only possible with CG, and the movie is visually stunning as a whole, thanks in large part to the fantastic art design. Essentially, it's one of those rare non-Pixar movies that I've seen that uses CG to improve the movie rather than just because it's cheaper and easier.
Now, this being "classic-formula Disney" means that it does feature a number of hugely cliché moments. One scene in particular is ridiculously touching and emotional, only for it to be erased a moment after. It's a bit of a shame for adults, but then I don't think the little kiddies would've been able to handle it otherwise. Still, the movie is a complete seesaw of emotions, going from hilarious to oh-no-I-just-have-something-in-both-my-eyes numerous times. In other words, while it may be predictable, it's the good kind of predictable.
Anyone who ever liked Disney will get a kick out of this.
