pedestrian effort. Thankfully, "Smallfoot" belongs in the former camp. Boasting impressive CG animation courtesy of Sony Imageworks, "Smallfoot" takes a tale reminiscent of "Monsters Inc." -- two groups ignorant and fearful of the other, in this case yetis and humans -- and twists it with a clever, topical message about the perils of putting dogma and self-interest ahead of critical thinking and the greater good. Ignorance really isn't bliss. This adult-friendly message may elude kids too busy laughing at the many visual gags, including a fantastic sequence involving fraying rope that brings to mind classic Warner animations of yesteryear, but it elevates the movie above most of its peers and ensures that not-so-young audience members are entertained too.The film isn't quite Disney/Pixar level -- the yeti character designs are a little odd, as though the animators were trying to avoid too close a resemblance to Pixar's Sully, and the featured songs are catchy rather than great Zendaya's "Wonderful Life" being the stand-out . Still, "Smallfoot" is a thoroughly entertaining family film that aspires to be different, backed by appealing protagonists, well-judged comic moments, a thought-provoking message, and a rewarding resolution that steers clear of being saccharine. Recommended.

genuinely charmed by the fast and colorful animation and a musically-driven story supported by subtle, timely messages that weren't so constantly hammered in.Smallfoot avoids the usual Disney formula and doesn't force its message down the viewer's throat. Lessons of acceptance and tolerance are important, especially in today's cruel and entitled world, but Smallfoot knows it's a family film first and balances the tone with fast-paced, comedic animation that serves as a clear ode to Looney Tunes even the Yeti designs are reminiscent to the late Chuck Jones' art style , and some rather catchy and energetic musical sequences that effectively tell the story and display how the character's are feeling, like a good musical should. I was very taken aback that the film was a musical overall. I was not expecting such a chipper opening sequence in "Perfection", which introduced the film's world and customs in a swift, understandable, and soulful manner. I had no idea Channing Tatum could sing, and he sounds excellent. The film even attempts different genres with its songs. Common, despite his unfitting casting the old and wise figure called the Stonekeeper, delivers a rousing rap sequence with "Let it Lie", backed up by some heavy-hearted themes and burning imagery. This film has tons of musical variety and I love it.As for the voice acting, as I mentioned above, there are some awkward mis-castings, Common, despite boasting one the film's best musical sequences, just doesn't fit the old and wise characterization, and I found athlete LeBron James' casting to be completely random, like Antz territory of force celebrity casting. Did Warner Bros. expect a basketball player to bring unique essence to his character? On the bright side, Channing Tatum proved to be likable lead. Tatum has always surprised me. Despite his pretty boy figure, he is quite a convincing actor, even through voice only. Tatum put a lot of curious and fun-loving spirit into Migo. I just wish the other characters were a tad more interesting. Zendaya, despite a dreamy singing voice, served as the obvious love interest, and Danny DeVito, while I bear an admiration for the man, played the supportive widowed father that we've seen in every movie ever. James Corden also had his obnoxious moments as Percy. I liked the scenes better where the yetis heard him speak in a low-pitched squeaky tone due to his shorter size.In spite of its familiar elements, Smallfoot is a delightful romp. It's one of the better non-Disney and DreamWorks animated films and very worth checking out, regardless of your age. Channing Tatum is a charming lead, the music is catchy and expressive, the story is fun and interesting enough with healthy messages, and the animation is very entertaining and gorgeous to look at. The miscasts and often cringy jokes there's literally a repeated image of a twerking pig and it really bothered me do make it short of a complete classic, but I'm one to place Smallfoot alongside the Hotel Translvania films, Storks, 9, and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs in the sacred collection of under-appreciated animated films that deserve better viewership. Sadly, due to mainstream criticism, I don't see Smallfoot doing well with its theatrical run, but I implore that you give it a chance. See it by yourself, even take your kids if you're a proud parent. Contrary to popular opinion, Smallfoot has something for everyone. Grab your gear and take a hike!