The Wild Thornberrys Movie (2002)

The Wild Thornberrys Movie is a surprisingly good little film, one of the better animated-TV-series-to-film transfers. While the quality of the animation is not up to par with the best of Disney, it's much more than acceptable, and far above the quality of the TV series from which it is derived. Quality of animation is, of course, important in a cartoon; but as long as it meets a certain level, that factor is actually less important than script and characters. Thornberrys does very well in both of these departments. The story is engaging and unusual, and the screenwriters have written dialogue that is flavorful and occasionally memorable. The characters are clearly defined; even those that on the surface are rather stereotypical (such as older daughter Debbie) have a degree of depth and originality. Most of all, Thornberrys has heart, and has this valuable quality without becoming cloying and syrupy. The movie has its flaws, of course, such as Nickelodeon's trademark dependence on low humor. These are fortunately made up for by its sterling cast, which add considerably to the film's success. Throw in an eclectic and fairly hip soundtrack, and the result is a family cartoon that adults will enjoy with their children. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide