Review: Ice Age: Continental Drift (movie)

Looking for a great family gift or a backup plan for entertaining the troops during the holidays? I have the answer. Be sure to pick up a copy of the animated film Ice Age: Continental Drift, which was released on BluRay and DVD just last week.

In this Ice Age adventure, Manny, Diego, and Sid are separated from the rest of their community when the world's land masses are divided as a result of plate tectonics, triggered when a crazy squirrel-like creature tries to bury an acorn in the ice. As the continent breaks apart, the trio is set adrift on a iceberg and must find a way to get back home while surviving the many perils of their journey.

One of things that makes this movie perfect for family viewing is that it can be watched on two levels. Kids will love the adventure story, with its great scenery, terrific characters, and catchy songs. At the same time, adults will have fun identifying the references to literature, movies, and myths. Everyone will fall for the characters and the wonderful animation.

The all-star team that voices the characters is not to be missed. As the studio's publicists note, Ice Age: Continental Drift has the "coolest cast." Just a few of the greats are Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Lopez, and Peter Dinklage.

The disc extras include songs and "The Story so Far." I particularly liked the short piece about the creation of the animals and the discussion of the Odyssesy.

Thanks to Kids Discover, parents, teachers, and curious children can download a free five-page pamphlet called "The Science behind Continental Drift." The booklet is linked to the movie and includes pictures of the Ice Age: Continental Drift characters along with colorful and informative graphics and charts. Print out the pages for yourself or the budding geologist in your family.

Thanks to Think Jam and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment for the screener copy of the movie.