Arthur Christmas

Arthur Christmas. What is it? Who is it? Why is it?

To answer these questions, it happens to be one of the best animated films this year. To further elaborate, please read on.

The titular Arthur (James McAvoy) is the well-meaning clumsy younger son of Santa Claus (Jim Broadbent). While Santa delivers gifts in his spaceship "sleigh", Arthur answers letters from kids in the mail room. He loves his job, though, knowing that he's making many kids happy.

Meanwhile, thanks to a screw-up, a lone bicycle is misplaced and left undelivered. One English girl's Christmas won't be so merry in the morning. Arthur's brother Steve (Hugh Laurie) doesn't mind this, considering it's just one out of billions. Leave it to Arthur and his grandpa, Grandsanta (Bill Nighy) to take the old Santa sleigh and eight reindeer for a last minute mail delivery. But they should've gotten a map first.

It's a 3D computerized creation of Aardman Animations, known better for its clay animation efforts such as Wallace and Gromit. Free from the plasticine, the animators have much more liberty with their visuals here. Such visual highlights include the giant Santa ship, the flying reindeer and Santa's mission control. It's certain to amaze in 3D or flatscreen, that's for sure.

What's also amazing is the writing. Written by director Sarah Smith and Peter Baynham, the film has plenty of amusing gags and twists. Its characters are all incredibly likeable thanks to its emotional honesty and resonance. It somewhat drags a bit at times, but the overall sleigh ride is fun.

This is one animated film worth waiting for through out the year. It'll certainly make up for any disappointments along the way. Since it won't come out on DVD until this time next year, make sure to see it soon.