Ice Age


Voices of: Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary,
Directed by: Carlos Saldanha, Chris Wedge
Rating: PG
Genre: Animated, Children's
2002

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: 20,000 years ago, at the dawn of the last ice age, the world was in an uproar as herds of animals felt to warmer regions. During this exodus, a young human is discovered by the strange team of a mastodon (Ray Romano), a sloth (John Leguizamo), and a saber-toothed tiger (Denis Leary). While they may not like each other, they unite to return the human back to its family. However, as they journey, they soon discover that one of them may have sinister plans for the child.

Review:

Tim: br> To go with the near I really liked this cartoon. It was refreshingly different from the vast majority of cartoons that grace the silver screen each year. By setting the film 20,000 years ago, and having the main characters be a mastodon, a sloth, and a saber-toothed tiger (all animals which you would have difficulty tracking down today), you not only get a good cartoon, but it is somewhat educational and original as well. The story is excellent, having different animals work together to get a human back to his "herd."

Perhaps the best part of the film is the selection of the actors to voice the lead characters. Ray Romano, which is so funny on Everybody Loves Raymond, is the perfect choice for Manfred the mastodon. He plays the closest thing to a father-figure in the film, which must have been an easy transition from the small to big screen. John Leguizamo is hilarious as Sid the sloth. The best part of the movie is his touchdown dance after retrieving an egg from some would-be thieves. He brings the most humor to the film. Denis Leary is also perfectly cast as Diego, the saber-toothed tiger. He represents the darker aspect of the film and is delightful as quite a complex character.

Not only is the film hilarious and has wonderful voice talent, but it actually focuses on an important message. Ice Age asks the question, what exactly is a herd (aka family)? It's not a bunch of people that look alike- but people... different people- who work together for some higher purpose. This is an excellent lesson for children to learn (especially if they don't know they are learning it). I would definitely recommend this film. It might not have the epic sweep and majesty of The Lion King, but its a very good movie.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Monster's Inc, The Lion King, Sleeping Beauty, Mulan