Ice age is the latest computer animated film to make the big
screen. In this enjoyable film directed by Chris Wedge and Carlos Saldanka
we follow the adventures of a mammoth (Ray Romeno), a sloth (John Leguizamo)
and a sabre-tooth (Denis Leary). An infant falls into their care and they
decide to get the child back to its family. This film does not use computer
animation as well as some of the other films in this field (Monsters inc,
Shrek etc.) Although this is noticeable, the film more than makes up for this,
through the superb script, the tasteful direction and the thoroughly
enjoyable characters.

Ice age makes a good attempt at developing the characters; the
mammoth seems grim yet kind hearted, the sloth is the annoying yet loveable
catalyst for the comedy and the quick-mouthed sabre tooth. These characters
hit off each other very well. Throughout the adventure these characters
become increasingly likeable, you will inevitably find yourself cheering for
them as they come across various obstacles on their journey. It is the
developed characterisation that gives the characters a warm presence.

I thought Ice age was a wonderful example of a family film. The
characters are very loveable, the jokes are clever and well timed. There is
also a subtle moral message within the film saying we should forgive our
enemies. It is these small details that round off a highly enjoyable hour
and twenty minutes of cinema.

Chris Grant