Everybody's a critic - 'Treasure Planet'

Three stars

I haven't been a big fan of Disney for some time, but every once in awhile they make a film I consider pretty good. This is one of those times. Here they take a classic story that has been remade too many times to count and give it a pulse. By setting it in the future and throwing in some rather interesting characters, they're able to grab you from the start and not let go.

While the animation of the characters looks the same as every other Disney film, the computerized backgrounds nearly take your breath away. Never in an animated movie have I seen such great detail. This alone is almost worth the price of admission.

But as with many Disney cartoons, the villains are mean and at times downright scary. If your kids are easily frightened you might want to pass on this or get a sitter and go watch it yourselves.

- Tim Bearden, sales

Three and a half stars

You know the old story: hidden riches, conspiring, jaded bad guys, conflicted yet virtuous young hero, triumphant feel-good outcome. Now fast forward in your mind to a time of sci-fi fantasy fun including X-Box-like adventure along with a strong dose of teenage angst and you arrive at Disney's latest animated installment: The high-speed, action-packed "Treasure Planet."

I have watched in wonder over the past several years as simple hand-drawn cartoons have developed into detailed and delightful digital films. I was drawn into this futuristic world of fantastic graphics from the outset. My attention was held, however, by a well-conceived story line and a likable cast of characters.

So despite the computer game-like quality, "Treasure Planet" retains an accessible and emotional side. Exit-interview comments from my children included: "It was exciting." "GREAT!" "A roller-coaster ride for the emotions. Good for all ages." - Bill Bradley, family nurse practitioner

Two stars

"Treasure Planet," presented by Walt Disney Pictures, is an animated futuristic adventure into outer space aboard a jet-powered pirate ship.

Jim Hawkins is a very intelligent, driven young man who is haunted by the memory of a father who abandoned him and his mother, Sara. When a space capsule crashes near the Benbow Inn, killing its occupant, Jim obtains an odd little sphere. Jim breaks the code that unlocks the contents of the sphere. It contains a map that locates the hidden treasure of a pirate known as Nathaniel Flint.

Jim along with a wealthy family friend, Dr. Delbert, charters a space "ship" and crew and sets out in search for the "Loot of a Thousand Worlds." Jim is befriended by the cyborg cook known as Long John Silver, who seems to have an agenda of his own.

As they approach their objective, mutiny breaks out and loyalty is found in the most unexpected places.

This movie should entertain very young audiences, however, it is not something I would suggest to viewers past the age of 9.

- Karla Marquart, realtor