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Polar Express, The (2004) Rank 5 Reviews

Expert Review Summary
Movie critics combined give Polar Express, The (2004) a score of 2.8325 out of 4
based on (317) reviews
Click on the numbers to the right of the graph to see reviews of that rating
Excellent
4
Excellent
(83)
Very Good
3
Very Good
(140)
Good
2
Good
(81)
Fair
1
Fair
(11)
Poor
0
Poor
(2)
Reviews by Score:
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Cinema em Cena (Pablo Villaça)Cinema em Cena (Pablo Villaça)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema em Cena (Pablo Villaça)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for kids-in-mindkids-in-mind
Animated version of the popular children's book by Chris Van Allsburg about a young boy who is struggling with his faith in Santa Claus, since all his friends and family insist that Santa is a figment of our collective imagination. However, one Christmas ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at kids-in-mind
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Orlando Sentinel (Jay Boyar)Orlando Sentinel (Jay Boyar)
Climb on and you'll experience one of the great joys of moviegoing: seeing something that's like nothing you've ever seen before. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Orlando Sentinel (Jay Boyar)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for The Reel McCoy (Patrick McCoy)The Reel McCoy (Patrick McCoy)
I must admit that at first I was not all that excited about seeing this movie when it began showing in November. I was not familiar with the story and felt that a movie about a train ride might be kinda boring. However, every time I went to see a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Reel McCoy (Patrick McCoy)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)
The Polar Express is the grandest WOW experience I've had in this world of film since the original Toy Story. It's like discovering Pixar all over again. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Movie Parables (Michael Elliott)Movie Parables (Michael Elliott)
Both the story and the telling of it have a timeless feel that will... delight generations of families in the many years to come. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Movie Parables (Michael Elliott)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for EDGE Boston (David Foucher)EDGE Boston (David Foucher)
Technically dazzling, thematically rich, and filled to the brim with holiday warmth, “The Polar Express” is an instant holiday classic. Climb aboard! ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at EDGE Boston (David Foucher)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Journal News (Westchester, NY) (Jack Garner)Journal News (Westchester, NY) (Jack Garner)
All the fine writing, Hanks' astonishing range of performances and the breathtaking visuals wouldn't mean a thing if I didn't tear up just a little at the finale. But I did. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Journal News (Westchester, NY) (Jack Garner)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for FilmStew.com (Todd Gilchrist)FilmStew.com (Todd Gilchrist)
Boy, do I feel like a sucker. There are just some things adults aren’t supposed to get excited about, like Christmas, or more specifically, the prospect of a jolly fat man popping down many a chimney to deliver presents to boys and girls all over the ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at FilmStew.com (Todd Gilchrist)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for digitallyOBSESSED.com (Kevin Clemons)digitallyOBSESSED.com (Kevin Clemons)
Since its publication in 1985, Chris Van Allsburg's The Polar Express has become an acknowledged classic of children's literature. It is a yuletide tale about faith and hope made unique not only because of the thoughtfulness of the tale but the author's ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at digitallyOBSESSED.com (Kevin Clemons)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for FilmJerk.com (Edward Havens)FilmJerk.com (Edward Havens)
Destined to become a perennial holiday favorite with the young and young at heart. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at FilmJerk.com (Edward Havens)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Denver Post (Lisa Kennedy)Denver Post (Lisa Kennedy)
Polar Express honors its source, then exceeds it. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Denver Post (Lisa Kennedy)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Christian Spotlight on the MoviesChristian Spotlight on the Movies
“The Polar Express” is a classic children’s story written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg and translated to the big screen with an equally original vision by Robert Zemeckis who directed the movie and co-wrote the screenplay. Zemeckis adds ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Christian Spotlight on the Movies
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Killer Movie Reviews (Andrea Chase)Killer Movie Reviews (Andrea Chase)
THE POLAR EXPRESS isn�t just an astonishing achievement in animation, it�s also a rich feast for the eye, the mind, and even the spirit. It's a glorious evocation of that most fragile, most beautiful aspect of the innocence of early life, the ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Killer Movie Reviews (Andrea Chase)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for St. Petersburg Times (Steve Persall)St. Petersburg Times (Steve Persall)
Robert Zemeckis' The Polar Express is the perfect Christmas movie gift: spectacularly wrapped although a bit gaudy, full of thrills, surprises and the best elements of commercializing the holiday. As portrayed here, the only reason for the season - and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at St. Petersburg Times (Steve Persall)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Lawrence Journal-World (Jon Niccum)Lawrence Journal-World (Jon Niccum)
The 1985 holiday tome "The Polar Express" was illustrated with oil paintings, and it had an almost otherworldly quality. Part fairy tale, part Norman Rockwell. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Lawrence Journal-World (Jon Niccum)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)
Robert Zemeckis has previously directed a dozen films; four of which (Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Forrest Gump, Cast Away) were named the best film of their respective year by yours truly. Those four titles are a ticketed career in ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at eFilmCritic.com (Erik Childress)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Sun Newspapers of Cleveland Sun Newspapers of Cleveland
Adapting "The Polar Express" to film is a far riskier proposition than any put forth for author Chris Van Allsburg's family readership. Beyond the inherent challenge of giving screen life to this magical tale, this is a bedtime story, just the right ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Sun Newspapers of Cleveland
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Harvey S. KartenHarvey S. Karten
Childhood is a magic time. Between the ages of 2 and, oh about 10, children see and hear and believe things that older folks cannot. Despite the improbability of one overweight, elderly man's delivering presents to six billion people between the hours of ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Harvey S. Karten
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Homer YenHomer Yen
There is a time in our young childhood when the biggest internal debate is whether Santa is real or not. To me, it seemed odd that the decorative paper that Santa used to wrap my Christmas gifts were of the exact patterns as the decorative paper that sat ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Homer Yen
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for The King's Room (Clyde Ayles)The King's Room (Clyde Ayles)
When you believe things can happen, like the old man in "Ghost World" waiting on the corner, believing the bus would come along to take him to a better place. He believed so hard, that one day that bus did come. On the other hand, if you don't ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The King's Room (Clyde Ayles)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for The Hollywood Reporter (Duane Byrge)The Hollywood Reporter (Duane Byrge)
A story that soars with breakneck pace but slows in all the tender moments. Visually, this train ride is both majestic and edge-of-your-seat. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Hollywood Reporter (Duane Byrge)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)
An enchanting, beautiful and brilliantly imagined film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Ed Blank)Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Ed Blank)
A marvelous, magical movie called "The Polar Express" stokes the embers of one's inner child. Let me put it this way: I didn't want the 5-year-old next to me to notice how moved I was at its conclusion. Some endings beg a private moment. A single, ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Ed Blank)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for eFilmCritic ReviewseFilmCritic Reviews
Chris Van Allsburg’s book “The Polar Express” can be read in about five minutes. It’s a well told, beautifully illustrated bedtime story about a boy who feels uncertain about his belief in Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, he takes a special train ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at eFilmCritic Reviews
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for TheMovieBoy Review (Dustin Putman)TheMovieBoy Review (Dustin Putman)
There comes a time in every child's life, usually just before they reach double-digits, when a certain amount of innocence is stolen from them. The thief isn't necessarily another person so much as it is the cruel hands of time, experience, and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at TheMovieBoy Review (Dustin Putman)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Big Movie Zone Review (Ross Anthony)Big Movie Zone Review (Ross Anthony)
Have you ever wanted to step inside one of those snowy glass balls? This is a charming Christmas film that takes advantage of 3-D and the large IMAX screen to bring you into its magical world. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Big Movie Zone Review (Ross Anthony)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Three Movie Buffs (Scott Nash)Three Movie Buffs (Scott Nash)
As the story opens, a young, unnamed boy is trying to fall asleep on Christmas Eve in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He's reached the age where he's beginning to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. Just as he's drifting off to sleep, the sound of a train ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Three Movie Buffs (Scott Nash)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for The BigScreen Cinema Guide - Reader ReviewsThe BigScreen Cinema Guide - Reader Reviews
I am a reading specialist and a big fan of Chris Van Allsberg, so I was curious as to how this heart-warming Christmas tale would resonate on the silver screen. The movie was exciting and the artwork of the animation did justice to the artistic and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The BigScreen Cinema Guide - Reader Reviews
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for DVD-Dweeb.comDVD-Dweeb.com
Get up, get on, and get ready for the ride of your life! It's Christmas Eve, and you're about to roller-coaster up and down mountains, slip-slide over ice fields, teeter across mile-high bridges and be served hot chocolate by singing waiters more ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVD-Dweeb.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Philip Martin)Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Philip Martin)
People will be polarized by this well-oiled machine of a family holiday vehicle. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Philip Martin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for hybridmagazine.com hybridmagazine.com
I’ll make it quick and easy for you: If you loved the cute and whimsical ever-floating feather from Forrest Gump, then try not to run over anybody in your SUV on your way to the theater because this film will blow you away. On the other hand, if you ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at hybridmagazine.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for San Antonio Express-News (Larry Ratliff)San Antonio Express-News (Larry Ratliff)
No matter where you stand on the jolly guy in the red suit, believe this. The Polar Express is the most magical, captivating animated Christmas adventure of all time. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at San Antonio Express-News (Larry Ratliff)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
A movie for more than one season; it will become a perennial, shared by the generations. It has a haunting, magical quality because it has imagined its world freshly and played true to ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
"The Polar Express" has the quality of a lot of lasting children's entertainment: It's a little creepy. Not creepy in an unpleasant way, but in that sneaky, teasing way that lets you know eerie things could happen. There's a deeper, shivery tone, instead ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for San Jose Mercury News (Bruce Newman)San Jose Mercury News (Bruce Newman)
Barrels across the trackless landscape of our affections, arriving where no one would have thought to look for a big-budget Hollywood movie: in the terrain of the heart. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at San Jose Mercury News (Bruce Newman)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Nolan's Pop Culture Review (Michael A. Smith)Nolan's Pop Culture Review (Michael A. Smith)
The Polar Express '...Visually stunning!' ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Nolan's Pop Culture Review (Michael A. Smith)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Film Values/Family Values (H. Arthur Taussig)Film Values/Family Values (H. Arthur Taussig)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Values/Family Values (H. Arthur Taussig)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Parent PreviewsParent Previews
Taking any book and making it into a movie can be a challenge. But choosing a classic children's tale like The Polar Express is even trickier. This Caldecott Medal winner is a mere 32 pages, many of which are filled with more illustrations than text. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Parent Previews
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Providence Journal (Michael Janusonis)Providence Journal (Michael Janusonis)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Providence Journal (Michael Janusonis)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Aisle Seat (Mike McGranaghan)Aisle Seat (Mike McGranaghan)
Its rich characters, spectacular visuals, and unbridled sense of awe and wonder make this the kind of movie families will want to watch together every holiday season. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Aisle Seat (Mike McGranaghan)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
I've seen "The Polar Express" twice, once the regular way, once in 3-D at an IMAX theater. It returns in three dimensions to IMAX theaters starting today, and it's worth the special effort to seek it out. This is a wonderful moviegoing experience. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 4.00 out of 4 stars for Fantastica Daily (Mervius)Fantastica Daily (Mervius)
I myself sat in the theater in awe, with chills running and up down my spine countless times. I can’t be sure, but I suspect my mouth was hanging open at times. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Fantastica Daily (Mervius)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for DVD MovieGuideDVD MovieGuide
With a few notable exceptions like the cynical Bad Santa, most Christmas movies shoot for a sense of magic and wonder. Not many of them achieve this, though, and it seems like the harder they try, the bigger they fail. Add 2004’s The Polar Express ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVD MovieGuide
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for A Guide to Current DVD (Aaron Beierle)A Guide to Current DVD (Aaron Beierle)
When it was released last year, "The Polar Express" came in with a very mild $23m on its opening weekend. But, with good word-of-mouth and repeat business (not to mention a successful IMAX run that will likely reoccur this year, as the movie is ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at A Guide to Current DVD (Aaron Beierle)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for Moda Magazine (Susan Granger)Moda Magazine (Susan Granger)
Childhood is a magic time. Between the ages of 2 and, oh about 10, children see and hear and believe things that older folks cannot. Despite the improbability of one overweight, elderly man's delivering presents to six billion people between ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Moda Magazine (Susan Granger)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for Cinema Source (Paul Maniaci)Cinema Source (Paul Maniaci)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema Source (Paul Maniaci)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for CinescapeCinescape
When a movie sets itself up to be "an instant holiday classic," one (at least, this reviewer) approaches with a certain amount of trepidation. However, there's no arguing with THE POLAR EXPRESS. Adapted by director Robert Zemeckis and fellow screenwriter ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinescape
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for Movie Mom at Yahoo! Movies (Nell Minow)Movie Mom at Yahoo! Movies (Nell Minow)
There are moments of great beauty, especially the vertiginous ride as we watch a golden train ticket carried away by an eagle. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Movie Mom at Yahoo! Movies (Nell Minow)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for Dallas Morning News (Philip Wuntch)Dallas Morning News (Philip Wuntch)
The Polar Express is a stunning technological achievement and, for the most part, a stirring emotional one. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Dallas Morning News (Philip Wuntch)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.75 out of 4 stars for Contra Costa Times (Mary F. Pols)Contra Costa Times (Mary F. Pols)
The source material has been broadened with great respect and tenderness, while the illustrations that made the book so special have served as inspiration for some of the most beautiful computer-generated imagery ever. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Contra Costa Times (Mary F. Pols)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.60 out of 4 stars for Washington Post (Jennifer Frey)Washington Post (Jennifer Frey)
Every detail of the beloved children's classic is meticulously reconstructed in the film, with visuals that can only be described as wondrous. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Washington Post (Jennifer Frey)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.60 out of 4 stars for Film Threat (Rory L. Aronsky)Film Threat (Rory L. Aronsky)
Just like “It’s A Wonderful Life” is shown on TV every year, The Polar Express should appear in IMAX theaters that traditionally. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Threat (Rory L. Aronsky)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.60 out of 4 stars for Washington Post (Desson Thomson)Washington Post (Desson Thomson)
A truly satisfying holiday picture, the kind everyone can enjoy. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Washington Post (Desson Thomson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.57 out of 4 stars for Film Fever Film Fever
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Fever
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.52 out of 4 stars for The Globe and Mail (Toronto) (Rick Groen)The Globe and Mail (Toronto) (Rick Groen)
So delightful it should come with a parental advisory: "Jaded adults, beware. Viewing this may pierce your shell of cynicism and spark a renewed belief in the magic of ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Globe and Mail (Toronto) (Rick Groen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.52 out of 4 stars for ReelViews (James Berardinelli)ReelViews (James Berardinelli)
Cinematic magic. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ReelViews (James Berardinelli)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.52 out of 4 stars for Baltimore Sun (Chris Kaltenbach)Baltimore Sun (Chris Kaltenbach)
Like the coolest train set a kid ever had. It's not real and the faces on the toy people don't look human, but it has bells and whistles galore and will take you as far as your imagination allows. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Baltimore Sun (Chris Kaltenbach)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.52 out of 4 stars for New York Daily News (Jack Mathews)New York Daily News (Jack Mathews)
It's a sensation - both a milestone in computer-animation and a likely Christmas classic. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at New York Daily News (Jack Mathews)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)
Splendidly rendered, The Polar Express is an often beautiful looking and sounding film experience that makes up for its familiar storyline, adapted from the illustrated story by Chris Van Allsburg, with fantastic special effects, good scoring, and a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Needcoffee.com - DVD ReviewNeedcoffee.com - DVD Review
There is a little boy (Hanks/voiced by Daryl Sabara) who is just not convinced that he truly believes in Santa Claus. He wants to believe, but he's just not sure. Well, it just so happens that the Polar Express shows up at his house on Christmas Eve to ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Needcoffee.com - DVD Review
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for ReelViews (James Berardinelli)ReelViews (James Berardinelli)
The Polar Express is cinematic magic - a delightful tale guaranteed to enthrall viewers of all ages. Does that sound like advertising hype, or the words of a publicist? Perhaps, but it's a reflection of how strongly this film pulled me under its spell. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ReelViews (James Berardinelli)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Hollywood Report Card (Ross Anthony)Hollywood Report Card (Ross Anthony)
Have you ever wanted to step inside one of those snowy glass balls? This is a charming Christmas film that takes advantage of 3-D and the large Imax screen to bring you into its magical world. Opening gently, a boy lies awake in his bed on ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Hollywood Report Card (Ross Anthony)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for UpcomingDiscs.com (Clayton Self)UpcomingDiscs.com (Clayton Self)
The Polar Express is a milestone in digital film making. Making use of “performance capture” (little attachments connected to the body to mimic human movement) and green screens, Robert Zemeckis (Back to the Future) has created a stunning visual ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at UpcomingDiscs.com (Clayton Self)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Shadows on the Wall (Rich Cline)Shadows on the Wall (Rich Cline)
Robert Zemeckis breaks cinematic ground once again with this children's Christmas movie, featuring a strong story and astonishing animation, as well as superb acting that plays out through "performance capture" on screen. His only misstep is to ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Shadows on the Wall (Rich Cline)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Cinema BlendCinema Blend
By now aren’t we all a little sick of watching movies where kids try to decide whether or not they believe in Santa Claus? I realize that there are only so many things to explore if you want to make a family movie about Christmas, so perhaps ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema Blend
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for DVD Verdict (Ryan Keefer)DVD Verdict (Ryan Keefer)
How can you judge performances on computer-generated characters? Well, Zemeckis has helped to introduce a process called "performance capture" technology. Simply put, the process looks very similar to a behind the scenes peek at an EA Sports game, ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVD Verdict (Ryan Keefer)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Movie Gazette (Gary Panton)Movie Gazette (Gary Panton)
Whatever your opinions on Robert Zemeckis, you can't say he's not ambitious when it comes to animation. His last toon, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, remains one of the most ground-breaking animated movies ever to have hit the big screen. 'The Polar ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Movie Gazette (Gary Panton)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for DVD TimesDVD Times
It is Christmas Eve and a young boy lies awake listening out for the ringing of sleigh bells to announce the arrival of Santa Claus. But doubts are creeping in as slowly and as surely as the snow falls outside. A book of cuttings from newspapers slyly ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVD Times
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for CNN Showbiz (Paul Clinton)CNN Showbiz (Paul Clinton)
This is especially disheartening since there's so much about this technologically groundbreaking movie -- from Academy Award-winning director Robert Zemeckis and star Tom Hanks -- that's astounding. The overall artwork is remarkable, and the action ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at CNN Showbiz (Paul Clinton)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Screen RantScreen Rant
For nearly 20 years, one of my Christmas traditions has been to watch A Christmas Story. That movie is on my short list of Christmas classics, right alongside the 1966 animated version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This year, with the release of Elf ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Screen Rant
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Film Quips Online (John R. McEwen)Film Quips Online (John R. McEwen)
Robert Zemeckis’s new digitally animated Christmas movie The Polar Express is yet another showcase for the latest breakthrough in cinematic computer wizardry, further pushing the envelope of capabilities that CGI animation has to offer to the big ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Quips Online (John R. McEwen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Bucket Reviews (Danny Baldwin)Bucket Reviews (Danny Baldwin)
I vividly remember reading Chris Van Allsburg’s children’s book, The Polar Express, excessively, in my youngest years. The story always struck me as being that of a real adventure, not just one with a kiddy vision of a narrative. Even though it does ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Bucket Reviews (Danny Baldwin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Cineclub-Filmkritik Cineclub-Filmkritik
Ein kleiner Junge wartet am Abend vor Weihnachten auf ein Geräusch: Er möchte die Schellen des Weihnachtsmannschlitten hören, wenn dieser die Geschenke bringt. Ohne einen solchen Beweis weigert sich sein Kopf, noch ein weiteres Jahr an den ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cineclub-Filmkritik
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for MovieholeMoviehole
After seeing “The Polar Express” two words come to mind -- trace elements. My doctor says I’m not getting the full benefit of my vitamins if they don’t contain trace elements—those extra minerals and other little things that make the vitamins ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Moviehole
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for New York Post (Megan Lehmann)New York Post (Megan Lehmann)
Devoid of 21st-century irony, this visually stunning, action-packed yuletide treat is sweet and, yes, magical in a way that will enchant kids and give older viewers a twinge of nostalgia. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at New York Post (Megan Lehmann)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for SF, Horror and Fantasy Film ReviewSF, Horror and Fantasy Film Review
Almost all of the press concerning The Polar Express had less to do with the qualities of the movie than it does the way that it was made. In this case, The Polar Express was the first high-profile feature-length film to use the process of Motion Capture. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at SF, Horror and Fantasy Film Review
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Denver Rocky Mountain News (Robert Denerstein)Denver Rocky Mountain News (Robert Denerstein)
Although it occasionally makes us feel as if whimsy has been run over by a train, Polar Express achieves some genuine enchantment, offering just enough storybook comfort to keep from flying off the rails. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Denver Rocky Mountain News (Robert Denerstein)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Palo Alto Online (Jeanne Aufmuth)Palo Alto Online (Jeanne Aufmuth)
I was dismayed when I learned that my favorite children's book -- a quiet and dark rumination on lost innocence -- was being adapted into a big-screen action adventure. The story of a young boy growing wary of his childish belief in Santa Claus is a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Palo Alto Online (Jeanne Aufmuth)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Almost Fabulous Movie ReviewsAlmost Fabulous Movie Reviews
The animation is beautiful. It's not sharply defined like in Finding Nemo and it doesn't try to be completely realistic like Final Fantasy. It looks like what it is -- a beautiful picture book brought to life. Hanks does a fine job with his half dozen ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Almost Fabulous Movie Reviews
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Empire Movies (Liam Cullin)Empire Movies (Liam Cullin)
The Polar Express is the screen adaptation of the children's book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. In the movie, a boy who's not quite sure he believes in the miracle of Christmas any more wakes Christmas Eve to find a train called The Polar ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Empire Movies (Liam Cullin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for MovieFreak.com (Keith Helinski)MovieFreak.com (Keith Helinski)
The Polar Express is above all else magical. It’s an X-MAS cliché wrapped in a new Christmas bow with all the bells and whistles that filmmaking has to offer, especially with that same old message of “believing is seeing” mishmash. The ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at MovieFreak.com (Keith Helinski)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.50 out of 4 stars for Lee's Movie Info (Craig Younkin)Lee's Movie Info (Craig Younkin)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Lee's Movie Info (Craig Younkin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.48 out of 4 stars for MovieMaze (Toni Strasser)MovieMaze (Toni Strasser)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at MovieMaze (Toni Strasser)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.42 out of 4 stars for DVDnett.noDVDnett.no
Julefilmer kan være morsomme som Home Alone, nostalgiske som It´s A Wonderful Life, rene feelgood gavepakker som Love Actually, skremmende (dog fornøyelig) som Gremlins og direkte patetiske som Jingle All the Way, hvor vi møter Arnold Schwarzenegger ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVDnett.no
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for TeenHollywood.com (Lynn Barker)TeenHollywood.com (Lynn Barker)
Did you ever write letters to Santa? Ever wonder what the North Pole was like? Did you lose that sense of wonder? Maybe you need a dose of Holiday cheer. Here comes The Polar Express. First, an explanation of what you'll be watching. Popular ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at TeenHollywood.com (Lynn Barker)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Window to the Movies (Jeffrey Chen)Window to the Movies (Jeffrey Chen)
You won't find many surprises in The Polar Express, and I make that statement fully aware of its reportedly novel motion-capture-based animation presented in feature-length form. Frankly, this presentation brings up more questions than answers. Why ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Window to the Movies (Jeffrey Chen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for ViewLondon (Jane Crowther)ViewLondon (Jane Crowther)
Enchanting, if disconcerting, feel-good fare loaded with predictable, wholesome messages but crammed with enough Christmas wonderment to off-set the saccharine. The shops are filled with baubles, twinkly reindeers are ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ViewLondon (Jane Crowther)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Johnny BettsJohnny Betts
Have you ever wondered what a midnight trip to the North Pole would look like? No? Neither have I. But that doesn't stop The Polar Express from attempting to capture that journey through the eyes of a young boy. As cool as I try to act, I have to admit ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Johnny Betts
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)
Splendidly rendered, The Polar Express is an often beautiful looking and sounding film experience that makes up for its familiar storyline, adapted from the illustrated story by Chris Van Allsburg, with fantastic special effects, good scoring, and a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Qwipster's Movie Reviews (Vince Leo)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.25 out of 4 stars for MovieWeb (Evan "Mushy" Jacobs)MovieWeb (Evan "Mushy" Jacobs)
The Polar Express is the tale of young boy becoming convinced that Santa Claus is a real. However, like most tales of Christmas, this story takes that simple idea and expands upon it so that we are taken on a journey of epic proportions. And if you know ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at MovieWeb (Evan "Mushy" Jacobs)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Screen Rant (Brian Rentschler)Screen Rant (Brian Rentschler)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Screen Rant (Brian Rentschler)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Cinenganos (Luis Martinez)Cinenganos (Luis Martinez)
Maravillosas secuencias ubérrimas de color y magia. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinenganos (Luis Martinez)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Dallas Observer (Luke Y. Thompson)Dallas Observer (Luke Y. Thompson)
If you have a chance to see the 3-D IMAX version of the movie ignore any objections. But if your only choice is a regular 2-D screen, The Polar Express is still three-fourths of a great movie. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Dallas Observer (Luke Y. Thompson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Jam! Movies (Bruce Kirkland)Jam! Movies (Bruce Kirkland)
The Polar Express really is whimsy itself, in its most glorious, pure state. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Jam! Movies (Bruce Kirkland)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for ViewLondon (Jane Crowther)ViewLondon (Jane Crowther)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ViewLondon (Jane Crowther)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Moose Hole (Joseph Kastner)Moose Hole (Joseph Kastner)
The Polar Express is at best a sub par family feature and at worst barely even a mediocre holiday 'classic' with no true sense of story or meaning ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Moose Hole (Joseph Kastner)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for EnPrimeur.ca (Nicolas Lacroix)EnPrimeur.ca (Nicolas Lacroix)
Une somptueuse adaptation d’un livre pour enfants Chris Van Allsburg. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at EnPrimeur.ca (Nicolas Lacroix)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Hero Realm (Stefan Halley)Hero Realm (Stefan Halley)
The movie’s visuals are absolutely stunning with some of the best digital animation that has been seen on film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Hero Realm (Stefan Halley)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Film Threat (Rory L. Aronsky)Film Threat (Rory L. Aronsky)
...the IMAX Corporation would do well to have this available every year in 3D. They have finally come upon their staple film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Threat (Rory L. Aronsky)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Supercala.com (John Venable)Supercala.com (John Venable)
Aerosmith's Steven Tyler is an elf? How cool is that!? ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Supercala.com (John Venable)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for Spirituality and Practice (Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat)Spirituality and Practice (Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat)
A marvelous screen adaptation of the Chris Van Allsburg Christmas classic about one of the great enduring mysteries of the universe -- Santa Claus. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Spirituality and Practice (Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.20 out of 4 stars for La Presse, Montréal (--)La Presse, Montréal (--)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at La Presse, Montréal (--)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.13 out of 4 stars for Portland Oregonian (Shawn Levy)Portland Oregonian (Shawn Levy)
A genuinely handsome film, and it tells a story that is well worth knowing. It's a kind, gentle and sweet holiday confection. But my Christmas wish is that the DVD comes packaged with the book. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Portland Oregonian (Shawn Levy)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.09 out of 4 stars for The Boston PhoenixThe Boston Phoenix
The theme of Robert Zemeckis’s touching Christmas tale, like that of this year’s Red Sox season, is "Believe," though you might not believe the groundbreaking animation that hits you like childhood wonderment on Christmas morning. Zemeckis (Forrest ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Boston Phoenix
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.08 out of 4 stars for Cinema BlendCinema Blend
The movie is a story about rekindling and preserving that sense of magic and wonder surrounding the childhood belief in Santa Claus. To help keep the joy alive in young hearts, a magical train called the Polar Express offers kids who doubt the jolly old ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema Blend
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.03 out of 4 stars for MediaScreen.comMediaScreen.com
Although audiences initially gave "Express" a chilly reception the film actually more than broke even at the box office due to repeat visits from fans of the film and a vaunted IMAX presentation. While there have been complaints that the motion capture ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at MediaScreen.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Bob BloomBob Bloom
The Polar Express will enchant children with its humor, zest and scenic splendor. Director Robert Zemeckis' adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's beloved, award-winning book makes great use of the vocal talents of Tom Hanks, who performs multiple parts, ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Bob Bloom
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)
It takes a funny pair of glasses to turn a mediocre Christmas tale into an eye-popping spectacle. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Salt Lake Tribune (Sean Means)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for The Cinema Source (Paul Maniaci)The Cinema Source (Paul Maniaci)
One of the greatest things inherent in youth is the ability to believe. We believe we are indestructible which leads to the common belief that we can fly. We believe we can eventually be anything; astronauts, firemen, racecar drivers, anything our ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Cinema Source (Paul Maniaci)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Now Playing Magazine (Eric Moro)Now Playing Magazine (Eric Moro)
Go in preparation for the upcoming holiday season; don’t go expecting groundbreaking CGI... ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Now Playing Magazine (Eric Moro)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Baltimore Sun (--)Baltimore Sun (--)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Baltimore Sun (--)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Apollo Movie Guide (Dan Jardine)Apollo Movie Guide (Dan Jardine)
Due to its ultra-realistic animation, Polar Express, a Robert Zemeckis film, has been dubbed by some reviewers “Final Fantasy 2.” It’s an interesting, if not completely successful, attempt to merge the latest in computer-animation wizardry with a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Apollo Movie Guide (Dan Jardine)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Capital Times (Madison, WI) (Rob Thomas)Capital Times (Madison, WI) (Rob Thomas)
It's dazzling and enchanting, and will get everybody's holiday season off on the right foot. Bu make sure your kids have read the book first. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Capital Times (Madison, WI) (Rob Thomas)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Tyler Morning Telegraph (Texas) (Mark Collette)Tyler Morning Telegraph (Texas) (Mark Collette)
... An early and unexpectedly intelligent gift. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Tyler Morning Telegraph (Texas) (Mark Collette)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Duane Dudek)Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Duane Dudek)
Most parents and children will be enthralled and enchanted by the positive themes it promotes. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Duane Dudek)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Minneapolis Star Tribune (Jeff Strickler)Minneapolis Star Tribune (Jeff Strickler)
Entertaining and innovative animated film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Minneapolis Star Tribune (Jeff Strickler)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for efilmcritic.com (Collin Souter)efilmcritic.com (Collin Souter)
In terms of awesome spectacle, the movie delivers and should really be viewed as it was meant to be: In 3-D IMAX. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at efilmcritic.com (Collin Souter)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Globe and Mail (Rick Groen)Globe and Mail (Rick Groen)
I loved watching this movie; I loved even more watching children hugging mothers watching this movie. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Globe and Mail (Rick Groen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Reno Gazette-Journal (Forrest Hartman)Reno Gazette-Journal (Forrest Hartman)
The animation looks like an oil painting come to life and the overall viewing experience is awe inspiring. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Reno Gazette-Journal (Forrest Hartman)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Christianity Today (Jeffrey Overstreet)Christianity Today (Jeffrey Overstreet)
It's utterly sincere in its storytelling ... but [overuses shallow, vague, and sentimental] platitudes until we weary of the word 'believe.' ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Christianity Today (Jeffrey Overstreet)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Laura Kelly)South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Laura Kelly)
Despite the lack of human warmth, this thrill ride is indeed thrilling -- and probably even more spectacular in IMAX theaters. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Laura Kelly)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Entertainment Spectrum (Vince Koehler)Entertainment Spectrum (Vince Koehler)
I found the film satisfying and a good "G" rated film the whole family can enjoy. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Entertainment Spectrum (Vince Koehler)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Detroit Free Press (Terry Lawson)Detroit Free Press (Terry Lawson)
Looks as reassuringly retro as a 1950s Lionel train set still in its original box. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Detroit Free Press (Terry Lawson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Seattle Times (Moira MacDonald)Seattle Times (Moira MacDonald)
Its heart is in the right place, and its bell should ring for many enchanted children in its audience. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Seattle Times (Moira MacDonald)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for New York Daily News (Jack Mathews)New York Daily News (Jack Mathews)
It's a sensation -- both a milestone in computer-animation and a likely Christmas classic. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at New York Daily News (Jack Mathews)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Hollywood.com (Kit Bowen)Hollywood.com (Kit Bowen)
Lacking a human touch here and there, The Polar Express is still a brilliant effort in CGI-animation and will certainly evoke the Christmas spirit in us all. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Hollywood.com (Kit Bowen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Palo Alto Weekly (Jeanne Aufmuth)Palo Alto Weekly (Jeanne Aufmuth)
A charming meditation on the inherent cynicism of growing old. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Palo Alto Weekly (Jeanne Aufmuth)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Images JournalImages Journal
Based on the Caldecott Medal-winning children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express makes a marvelous transition to the silver screen. Children's books don't always fare so well. Look no further than last year's Cat in the Hat for an ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Images Journal
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Chicago Tribune (Michael Wilmington)Chicago Tribune (Michael Wilmington)
It's hard to calibrate magic, harder still to conjure it flawlessly, especially the magic of Christmas that a child experiences. In "The Polar Express," director Robert Zemeckis and star Tom Hanks try for that special combination of creative stardust ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Chicago Tribune (Michael Wilmington)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Tail Slate (C. Corey Smith)Tail Slate (C. Corey Smith)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Tail Slate (C. Corey Smith)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for ScifiWatch.comScifiWatch.com
It’s Christmas morning; you’ve been waiting all night to rush downstairs and look under the tree, certain that the best present of all is yours. Sure enough, there it is: a huge, stunning package with your name on it. Eagerly, you grab it up and take ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ScifiWatch.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Box Office Mojo (Scott Holleran)Box Office Mojo (Scott Holleran)
Like Santa Claus himself, writer and director Robert Zemeckis' The Polar Express is an enchanted Christmas fantasy. Based on the children's storybook by Chris Van Allsburg (who also wrote the book Jumanji), Mr. Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Cast Away) ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Box Office Mojo (Scott Holleran)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Film Blather ReviewFilm Blather Review
It occurs to me that the age group targeted by The Polar Express -- roughly 7-11, if my instincts don't fail me -- is just about at that time when children are normally disabused of the notion that a large man in a red suit delivers gifts via ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Blather Review
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Hollywood JesusHollywood Jesus
The popular 1986 Caldecott Medal Award winning story by Chris Van Allsburg has finally made it to the silver screen. Not only has it made it to the screen, it has chugged in with a velocity only those familiar with the story can understand. Robert ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Hollywood Jesus
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Jesusfreakhideout.com Movie ReviewsJesusfreakhideout.com Movie Reviews
The Polar Express isn't your usual animated film. Using motion capture technology like that which was used for creating Gollum in the Lord Of The Rings films, director Robert Zemeckis brings to life the children's story on the big screen. The end ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Jesusfreakhideout.com Movie Reviews
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for NightsAndWeekends.com (Kristin Dreyer Kramer)NightsAndWeekends.com (Kristin Dreyer Kramer)
Chris Van Allsburg’s popular children’s book comes to life in this animated film starring Tom Hanks, Tom Hanks, Tom Hanks, Tom Hanks, and a couple of other people. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at NightsAndWeekends.com (Kristin Dreyer Kramer)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for ReelTalk (Diana Saenger)ReelTalk (Diana Saenger)
Playing a variety of different characters in The Polar Express, Tom Hanks eloquently brings this magical Christmas story to life while touching the hearts of young and old alike. Director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Cast Away) and Hanks both loved the ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ReelTalk (Diana Saenger)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Revolution Home Theater (Bill Warren)Revolution Home Theater (Bill Warren)
There’s no escaping “The Polar Express” It’s bearing down on all of us, thundering, hissing and honking, a juggernaut of determinedly glorious entertainment. Tom Hanks, who kind of stars, and Robert Zemeckis, who directed and co-wrote the script, ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Revolution Home Theater (Bill Warren)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Rotten TomatoesRotten Tomatoes
Maya. Houdini. RenderMan. Motionbuilder. Splat. It's a bit odd for a film whose intent is to distill the essence of Christmas in childhood terms to rely so heavily on the highest-end computer technology to come to life--as though filmmaker Robert ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Rotten Tomatoes
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for TheCinemaSource.com (Paul Maniaci)TheCinemaSource.com (Paul Maniaci)
One of the greatest things inherent in youth is the ability to believe. We believe we are indestructible which leads to the common belief that we can fly. We believe we can eventually be anything; astronauts, firemen, racecar drivers, anything our ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at TheCinemaSource.com (Paul Maniaci)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for WaffleMovies.com (Willie Waffle)WaffleMovies.com (Willie Waffle)
Hanks pours it on with a heart-wrenching, tear-inducing, 4-boxes-of-tissues final narration that made the toughest and most cynical of audience members weep (I'm only human). ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at WaffleMovies.com (Willie Waffle)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Images (Gary Johnson)Images (Gary Johnson)
Based on the Caldecott Medal-winning children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express makes a marvelous transition to the silver screen. Children's books don't always fare so well. Look no further than last year's Cat in the Hat for an example of ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Images (Gary Johnson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Montreal Film Journal (Kevin N. Laforest)Montreal Film Journal (Kevin N. Laforest)
As he's beginning to doubt the existence of Santa Claus, a boy is taken on an amazing journey to the North Pole by the titular train. Stories don't get much simpler than that but often, as Jewel once wrote, what's simple is true. In any case, "The Polar ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Montreal Film Journal (Kevin N. Laforest)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Apollo Guide (Dan Jardine)Apollo Guide (Dan Jardine)
Due to its ultra-realistic animation, Polar Express, a Robert Zemeckis film, has been dubbed by some reviewers “Final Fantasy 2.” It’s an interesting, if not completely successful, attempt to merge the latest in computer-animation wizardry with a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Apollo Guide (Dan Jardine)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for hip online hip online
The Academy Award-winning team of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Cast Away) reunite for The Polar Express, an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at hip online
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Seattle Post-IntelligencerSeattle Post-Intelligencer
For most of the way, it's indeed quite a ride: a cumulatively exhilarating, visually mouth-dropping, somberly stylish odyssey crammed full of virtuoso animation sequences. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Reel.comReel.com
Groundbreaking CG effects were enough to win an Oscar for Titanic, and they probably will be sufficient to earn The Polar Express a permanent place in the annual holiday movie rotation. But as with James Cameron's blockbuster, the human element in this ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Reel.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for The Phantom TollboothThe Phantom Tollbooth
I have never read the supposedly classic children's book, The Polar Express, on which this multi-role Tom Hanks vehicle was based. And after watching the movie, my mind is divided as to whether doing so would be a good thing. If the book is a warmer, ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Phantom Tollbooth
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Soundwaves Cinema (Dale Jay Dennis)Soundwaves Cinema (Dale Jay Dennis)
"All aboard!" What kid wouldn't jump at the chance to ride on a steam train bound for the North Pole? The Polar Express is a lavish, great looking animation film from the studio that was the greatest animation competition for The Mouse House for ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Soundwaves Cinema (Dale Jay Dennis)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for FilmFocus.Co.UK (Joe Utichi)FilmFocus.Co.UK (Joe Utichi)
For one young boy, the magic of Christmas is wearing off. While his sister continues to believe in Santa Claus and his elves, there is too much evidence for the boy that the story is little more than a myth. When a locomotive pulls up outside his house ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at FilmFocus.Co.UK (Joe Utichi)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Latino ReviewLatino Review
The Tom Hanks/Robert Zemeckis collaborations continue with the holiday film, The Polar Express, based on the children's book written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsberg. It is the story of a young boy who having lost all belief in Santa Claus, takes a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Latino Review
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Mixed Reviews: The Arts, The World, and More (Martin Scribbs)Mixed Reviews: The Arts, The World, and More (Martin Scribbs)
A praiseworthy new film has been awarded highest honors from Puissant Guide and All-Fertile Giftgiver Kris Kringle. To hide from one's revolutionary fellows the name of this film would be an act as foolish as trying to hide a gimlet in a bulging sack. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Mixed Reviews: The Arts, The World, and More (Martin Scribbs)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for The Movie ChicksThe Movie Chicks
Christmas may be coming, but the Hero Boy (Tom Hanks) is beginning to lose faith in Santa - he doesn't write a letter, doesn't want to put out cookies and milk, and has started thinking maybe his parents have something to do with all those presents. On ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Movie Chicks
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Tail Slate (C. Corey Smith)Tail Slate (C. Corey Smith)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Tail Slate (C. Corey Smith)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Film e Dvd Film e Dvd
Basato sul racconto per ragazzi di grande successo di Chris Van Allsburg (già autore di Jumanji), "The polar express" racconta la storia di un ragazzo che rifiuta di rinunciare all’esistenza di Babbo Natale nonostante le incessanti prese in giro dei ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film e Dvd
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Reel.comReel.com
With The Polar Express, his $165 million adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's popular children's book, director Robert Zemeckis (Who Framed Roger Rabbit?) doesn't just push the technological envelope—he rips it to shreds. Using Performance Capture, a ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Reel.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for hip online hip online
The Academy Award-winning team of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Cast Away) reunite for The Polar Express, an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at hip online
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for DVD Clinic ("Jason Coleman")DVD Clinic ("Jason Coleman")
When I think of Christmas films that resonate and have that feeing of nostalgic bliss, there are a couple of greats that come to mind. Flicks like MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (the 1947 version with Edmund Gwenn, not the 1994 version with Richard ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVD Clinic ("Jason Coleman")
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Haro OnlineHaro Online
Most films based on books have to deal with trying to take a few hundred pages and condense it into material fit for a movie. The Polar Express has the opposite problem. The classic book by Chris Van Allsburg is only about thirty pages. This meant that ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Haro Online
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Empire Magazine [UK]Empire Magazine [UK]
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Empire Magazine [UK]
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Empire Magazine [UK]Empire Magazine [UK]
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Empire Magazine [UK]
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Boston Herald (David Brudnoy)Boston Herald (David Brudnoy)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Boston Herald (David Brudnoy)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Cinema in Focus (Denny Wayman and Hal Conklin)Cinema in Focus (Denny Wayman and Hal Conklin)
To have the faith of a little child is a divine gift for which we all long in our hearts. To be a child who has lost his faith is a painful sorrow. This Christmas, a trip on the “Polar Express” is an opportunity for children and adults alike to ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema in Focus (Denny Wayman and Hal Conklin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Houston ChronicleHouston Chronicle
"Enjoy the journey," Hakeem Olajuwon urged while leading the Houston Rockets to two NBA titles. For him, the reward lay in the process. Similarly, you can climb aboard The Polar Express with unabashed enthusiasm for the journey ahead. Written by ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Houston Chronicle
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for St. Paul Pioneer Press (Chris Hewitt)St. Paul Pioneer Press (Chris Hewitt)
For a book with no characters or plot, "The Polar Express" makes a surprisingly smooth transition to the movies. "Polar" doesn't duplicate the still, haunted beauty of Chris Van Allsburg's book, but it takes only about 20 seconds to get over that (Van ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at St. Paul Pioneer Press (Chris Hewitt)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Sci-Fi Weekly Sci-Fi Weekly
H ero Boy has lost his faith. He no longer possesses the holiday spirit, and he's long past believing in Santa Claus. It happens to every kid at some point. Then Christmas Eve arrives, and so does a massive steam engine train. In fact, the train pulls up ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Sci-Fi Weekly
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Cinema Signals by The Filmiliar CineasteCinema Signals by The Filmiliar Cineaste
Do you know what I mean when I say, "pseudo reality?" If you do, this film is probably not for you. The target audience, mostly under 8, will not likely have make much sense of terms like that. They might, however, wonder what the North Pole looks like ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema Signals by The Filmiliar Cineaste
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for DVD Town (John J. Puccio)DVD Town (John J. Puccio)
First, a word of explanation. "The Polar Express" is one of those computer animations that try to look as photorealistic as possible in their representations of the actual world. As a result, the humans appear almost but not quite true, like wax ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVD Town (John J. Puccio)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 3.00 out of 4 stars for Georgia Straight (John Lekich)Georgia Straight (John Lekich)
If The Polar Express doesn't become a holiday fixture, it won't be for lack of trying. Based on the classic picture book by Chris Van Allsburg, this dazzling computer-animated feature tells the story of an unnamed boy who is beginning to doubt that Santa ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Georgia Straight (John Lekich)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.98 out of 4 stars for RevolutionSF (Gary Mitchel)RevolutionSF (Gary Mitchel)
A while back I came up with a theory about Christmas movies. It goes that every actor wants to do at least one film with a Christmas theme or set during the Yule season at some point in his or her career. The reason being that it doesn't matter how good ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at RevolutionSF (Gary Mitchel)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.94 out of 4 stars for The Sydney Morning Herald The Sydney Morning Herald
You can see now how the big screen helped this expensive animated version of Chris Van Allsburg's picture book. On DVD, this tale of a boy catching a magical train to the North Pole is lumpy. Kids will enjoy stunning landscapes, roller-coaster chases and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Sydney Morning Herald
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.91 out of 4 stars for Ain't It Cool Movie Reviews (Harry Knowles)Ain't It Cool Movie Reviews (Harry Knowles)
Prepping for seeing POLAR EXPRESS began the night before� Friday night at Pedazo Chunk, my sis was having her monthly wing-ding at the store� Band jamming out back � films playing in the screening room � beer flowing for free and movie geeks and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Ain't It Cool Movie Reviews (Harry Knowles)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.89 out of 4 stars for U.S. Conference of Catholic BishopsU.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
In recent years, many Christmas-themed movies have displayed a lamentable Scrooge-like cynicism toward the holiday. Thankfully, director Robert Zemeckis has taken a different track with "The Polar Express" (Warner Bros.), a visually captivating family ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.89 out of 4 stars for allesfilm.com (Maria Schoiswohl)allesfilm.com (Maria Schoiswohl)
Ein kleiner Junge wartet auf Santa Claus. So richtig glaubt er nicht mehr an den Santa, dennoch wartet er am Weihnachtsabend auf ihn. Kekse und Milch stehen bereit, es ist fünf vor zwölf - Santa kann kommen. Doch statt dessen kommt der Polarexpress - ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at allesfilm.com (Maria Schoiswohl)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.88 out of 4 stars for Movies 101 (Robert Glatzer)Movies 101 (Robert Glatzer)
Having read "The Polar Express" for the first time just the other day, I wasn't looking forward to the movie. Totally without affect, much less plot or characters, with a reading time under thirty seconds, the book had me rolling my eyes in disbelief ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Movies 101 (Robert Glatzer)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.87 out of 4 stars for Frank's Reel ReviewsFrank's Reel Reviews
The story in Chris Van Allsburg's Caldecott Medal winning children's book, The Polar Express, is a very simple little tale that's short on words but big on heart. Although the book is truly a heartwarming experience, there's really not a whole lot of ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Frank's Reel Reviews
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.87 out of 4 stars for Screen It! Entertainment Reviews for Parents Screen It! Entertainment Reviews for Parents
It's a good bet many will, particularly if they like the short story upon which this film is based. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Screen It! Entertainment Reviews for Parents
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.86 out of 4 stars for Miami Herald (Peter Debruge)Miami Herald (Peter Debruge)
It's a good, old-fashioned North Pole adventure. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Miami Herald (Peter Debruge)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.82 out of 4 stars for CinemaScreen (James Salter)CinemaScreen (James Salter)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at CinemaScreen (James Salter)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.82 out of 4 stars for Time OutTime Out
As a complete package, Zemeckis’ surreal, hallucinogenic adventure is pretty inconsequential. But as a demonstration of modern computer animation techniques, it’s a kaleidoscopic marvel. A group of kids board conductor Tom Hanks’ mystery train and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Time Out
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.82 out of 4 stars for ninth symphony films ninth symphony films
Warner Bros's The Polar Express, a story, which in book form has charmed millions with its lyrical prose and beautiful illustrations, displays a startling lack of that appeal in feature film form. Despite the jaw dropping animation of this film, true ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ninth symphony films
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Window to the Movies (Jeffrey Chen)Window to the Movies (Jeffrey Chen)
Good work for the sake of good work -- it delivers something I'll readily admit is enjoyable, but not easily embraceable. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Window to the Movies (Jeffrey Chen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)
It's hard not to wish this film were more of a piece and less like loud music at the wrong party. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.80 out of 4 stars for Time (Richard Schickel)Time (Richard Schickel)
Tom Hanks doesn't turn Polar Express into much of a thrill ride. For that you need 3-D goggles. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Time (Richard Schickel)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.79 out of 4 stars for Cinemaphile.org (David Keyes)Cinemaphile.org (David Keyes)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinemaphile.org (David Keyes)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.77 out of 4 stars for Dallas Observer (Luke Y. Thompson)Dallas Observer (Luke Y. Thompson)
Most articles written about The Polar Express have focused on its groundbreaking technology, which takes the process used to create Gollum in The Lord of the Rings one step further. Much as Andy Serkis' performance was digitally mapped and reproduced via ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Dallas Observer (Luke Y. Thompson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Entertainment WeeklyEntertainment Weekly
The screenplay, by Zemeckis and William Broyles Jr., plumps Van Allsburg's simple fable about the purity of childhood faith in what can't be seen with all sorts of wholly invented characters, complications, and declarations. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Entertainment Weekly
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for 3 Black Chicks ("The Diva")3 Black Chicks ("The Diva")
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at 3 Black Chicks ("The Diva")
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for RopeofSilicon (Brad Brevet)RopeofSilicon (Brad Brevet)
When will the battle for CGI supremacy be over? Will it be once the animated characters don't look animated at all, or maybe when the characters look almost human, but just not quite right? If the answer is the latter then I must say The Polar Express ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at RopeofSilicon (Brad Brevet)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Off-screen Off-screen
Incuriosiva molto conoscere la nuova tappa cinematografica di Robert Zemeckis, dopo la grandissima prova di Cast Away. La profonda riflessione sulla lentezza umana riscoperta e trionfatrice sulla spersonalizzante superficialità del vivere ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Off-screen
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for RopeofSilicon (Brad Brevet)RopeofSilicon (Brad Brevet)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at RopeofSilicon (Brad Brevet)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.75 out of 4 stars for Movie-Vault.com (Mel Valentin)Movie-Vault.com (Mel Valentin)
Based on Christopher Van Allsburg’s Caldecott Medal winner of the same name, The Polar Express, a G-rated foray into a Christmas-inspired, computer-animated wonderland, is likely to be remembered as a failure of imagination and storytelling or, at ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Movie-Vault.com (Mel Valentin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.74 out of 4 stars for LA Weekly (Ella Taylor)LA Weekly (Ella Taylor)
The result is another powerful children's story dulled into mediocrity by the worship of technology. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at LA Weekly (Ella Taylor)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.72 out of 4 stars for Chicago Reader (Andrea Gronvall)Chicago Reader (Andrea Gronvall)
The story offers lessons in faith and self-esteem; the darker passages of the child's journey are countered by shimmering, cascading beacons of light; and fine period detail adds to the nostalgic glow. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Chicago Reader (Andrea Gronvall)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.71 out of 4 stars for Black Flix (Laurence Washington)Black Flix (Laurence Washington)
Although "The Polar Express" is a fantastic achievement in computer animation (a new process called performance capture where the actor’s movements are mapped over by animation), it has two obstacles working against it. First: It’s being released ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Black Flix (Laurence Washington)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.71 out of 4 stars for Comingsoon.netComingsoon.net
The Polar Express is a stunningly gorgeous work of visual art. Like the children's book it is based on, it depicts a magical train ride to the North Pole in scenes of shining Arctic beauty, with a brilliant night sky, stark mountain ranges, and luminous ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Comingsoon.net
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.71 out of 4 stars for CinemaZone.dkCinemaZone.dk
Tror du på Julemanden? Selvfølgelig gør du ikke det. I disse tider, hvor både Nordpolen, Norge, Finland og Grønland slås om at være den rødmossede og godmodige bamses hjemland, er det svært ikke at forfalde til kynisme, når det gælder hans ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at CinemaZone.dk
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.70 out of 4 stars for The Trades (Jim Pappas)The Trades (Jim Pappas)
The Hero Girl, The Hero Boy, and the Lonely Boy experience the awe and majesty of Santa's domain in "The Polar Express." Sentimental and nostalgic, "The Polar Express" is a triumph of not only computer generated animation, but is a film that is ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Trades (Jim Pappas)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.70 out of 4 stars for Cinema Laser (Derek M. Germano)Cinema Laser (Derek M. Germano)
Just like a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter’s night, THE POLAR EXPRESS ($30) is the perfect holiday treat. Based upon the book by Chris Van Allsburg, THE POLAR EXPRESS tells the story of a young boy who wants to believe in Santa Claus, but is in ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema Laser (Derek M. Germano)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.68 out of 4 stars for Pajiba (Dustin Rowles)Pajiba (Dustin Rowles)
You’re probably going to hear a lot about the new, revolutionary process called “performance capture,” used create Robert Zemekis’ animated feature, The Polar Express. At a cost of some $86 million, the process requires that the film’s actors ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Pajiba (Dustin Rowles)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.66 out of 4 stars for Box Office ProphetsBox Office Prophets
Few Hollywood production strategems are as mechanically calculated as the holiday release. Each year's seasonal cycle sees a slew of would-be classics, all of which are anticipated to be the next A Christmas Story. The result is inevitable. Almost all of ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Box Office Prophets
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.63 out of 4 stars for Entertainment Insiders (Scott Mantz)Entertainment Insiders (Scott Mantz)
Robert Zemeckis has been so successful as a writer, producer and director, it's easy to forget that he's also one of the most technologically innovative filmmakers in Hollywood history. Sure, he solidified his commercial sensibilities with box office ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Entertainment Insiders (Scott Mantz)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.62 out of 4 stars for Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)
After three years of technological advances and millions of dollars spent, the "realistic" computer animation of Robert Zemeckis' The Polar Express isn't all that much better than Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (2001). Certain moments will amaze -- ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Combustible Celluloid (Jeffrey M. Anderson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.62 out of 4 stars for St. Louis Post-DispatchSt. Louis Post-Dispatch
There's a word for "The Polar Express": wonderful. This Christmas story is filled with wonders. The engine that pulls this trainload of treats is the computer animation. Based on an award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, the film retains the look ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.62 out of 4 stars for In Review (Adam Suraf)In Review (Adam Suraf)
Here is an old anecdote that I carry around with me whenever I’m at a bar, or tipping back one too many while watching a sporting event at a public place. It goes, you’re never as drunk as the guy next to you thinks you are, or failing his opinion ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at In Review (Adam Suraf)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.62 out of 4 stars for The (Georgetown) Hoya The (Georgetown) Hoya
Let’s think of the circumstances. Billions of children around the world, seven continents, homes without fireplaces and eight flying reindeer — all in a single night. We all ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The (Georgetown) Hoya
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.52 out of 4 stars for Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Visually, taking its cues (mostly) from Van Allsburg's Hopperesque art, The Polar Express is eye-popping. Storywise, however, it can be eyelid-drooping. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.52 out of 4 stars for Premiere (Jessica Letkemann)Premiere (Jessica Letkemann)
The Hanks overload feels like The Polar Express is "Being John Malkovich" transmuted into a computer-generated 21st-century children's Christmas film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Premiere (Jessica Letkemann)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.52 out of 4 stars for USA Today (Claudia Puig)USA Today (Claudia Puig)
Simple and evocative, yet teeming with intriguing visual effects. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at USA Today (Claudia Puig)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Laramie Movie Scope (Robert Roten)Laramie Movie Scope (Robert Roten)
This is a low-key animated Christmas movie based on the popular children's book. The artwork is beautiful, there are some good songs, and it is a pretty good Christmas story, but is no classic, as some have claimed. Give me “Miracle on 34th Street” ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Laramie Movie Scope (Robert Roten)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Eclipse Magazine (Andrew Hass)Eclipse Magazine (Andrew Hass)
Other than its innovate look, this flick lacks much in the way of substance, plot and characters. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Eclipse Magazine (Andrew Hass)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for SPLICEDwire (Rob Blackwelder)SPLICEDwire (Rob Blackwelder)
One thing is clear from Hollywood's latest attempt at generating photo-realistic human characters through computer animation: The technology has not reached a level at which it can capture the awe of a child. This is a fundamental problem for "The Polar ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at SPLICEDwire (Rob Blackwelder)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Friday & Saturday Review Friday & Saturday Review
The historical Saint Nicholas was a third or fourth century bishop in one of those Eastern European nations that is plagued with vampires and doesn’t use vowels. Depending on the story, he either gained his Yuletide fame by giving Christmas presents ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Friday & Saturday Review
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Steve RhodesSteve Rhodes
THE POLAR EXPRESS is a stunning visual achievement. But looks aren't everything. Even if the movie is based on a beloved, classic children's book of the same name, the movie itself feels like a series of great special effects lost in search of a story. A ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Steve Rhodes
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for The Movie Insider (Lynda Lin)The Movie Insider (Lynda Lin)
Nowadays, animation is more about shock-and-awe than heart and soul, which unfortunately, is the plague that derails The Polar Express, Warner Brothers' lukewarm answer for a blustery and bleak Christmas movie season. At first blush, the special ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Movie Insider (Lynda Lin)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for PopMatters (Cynthia Fuchs)PopMatters (Cynthia Fuchs)
Watch out, all you kids who don't believe in Santa. This is not your choice to make. You will believe. Or else. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at PopMatters (Cynthia Fuchs)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for DVDwolf (Rob Paul)DVDwolf (Rob Paul)
Honestly? I had no real urge to sit and watch the dreck that The Polar Express presented itself as in the trailers. Hey, it's a kids flick, why bother? Every studio can churn out kids flicks if they so choose, but why subject myself to it? Then I ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at DVDwolf (Rob Paul)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for About.com Hollywood Movies (Rebecca Murray)About.com Hollywood Movies (Rebecca Murray)
The movie version of “The Polar Express” expounds on the short story created by Chris Van Allsburg. The film follows a young boy who is having serious doubts about the existence of Santa Claus. He wants to believe, but is fast losing his faith. The ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at About.com Hollywood Movies (Rebecca Murray)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for NYC Film Critic (Ethan Alter)NYC Film Critic (Ethan Alter)
There's one scene in The Polar Express that really knocked my socks off. And, interestingly enough, it's a scene that's completely devoid of human characters. In this sequence, the Boy (one of the many characters played by Tom Hanks) is moving between ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at NYC Film Critic (Ethan Alter)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for EmanuelLevy.com (Emanuel Levy)EmanuelLevy.com (Emanuel Levy)
Unfortunately, Zemeckis has allowed his technical-savvy, circus-like movie to lose touch with its human charcaters, resulting in a cold and distanced animation. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at EmanuelLevy.com (Emanuel Levy)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Steve Murray)Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Steve Murray)
The movie seems determined to be an instant Christmas classic, but its idea of seasonal awe comes straight off a factory conveyor belt. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Steve Murray)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.50 out of 4 stars for Entertainment Ave!Entertainment Ave!
There was a potential for my viewing of "The Polar Express" to turn into a complete nightmare, and that was about five minutes before the movie started when little Skippy sitting behind me proceeded to start kicking the back of my chair. And we’re ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Entertainment Ave!
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.49 out of 4 stars for Cinopsis Cinopsis
Un jeune garçon rêve aux clochettes du traîneau du Père Noël. Croyant les entendre teinter, il se rend compte que ce n'est que son père qui joue avec sa soeur... Cela ne fait que renforcer ses doutes car, à l'orée de l'adolescence, il doute de ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinopsis
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.45 out of 4 stars for Plugged InPlugged In
Christmas Eve. While idealistic, Santa-believing tots dream sweetly of sugar plums or listen intently for the patter of reindeer hooves, one preteen is kept awake by the drip, drip, drip of his own growing cynicism. We know this because he skeptically ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Plugged In
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for IGN Movies (Jeff Otto)IGN Movies (Jeff Otto)
Outstanding visual effects struggle to overwhelm a flawed film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at IGN Movies (Jeff Otto)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Empire Magazine (--)Empire Magazine (--)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Empire Magazine (--)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for efilmcritic.com (Peter Sobczynski)efilmcritic.com (Peter Sobczynski)
Watching it is sort of like being slammed over the head for 105 minutes with a mallet made of marzipan. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at efilmcritic.com (Peter Sobczynski)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Jam! Movies (Louis B. Hobson)Jam! Movies (Louis B. Hobson)
Accept the process Zemeckis and Hanks have chosen and the journey they take you on is wondrous. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Jam! Movies (Louis B. Hobson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for efilmcritic.com (Dan Lybarger)efilmcritic.com (Dan Lybarger)
Despite some technical pizzazz, this flick ends up leaving viewers as cold as the North Pole itself. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at efilmcritic.com (Dan Lybarger)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)
There is wonder for us to cherish, courtesy of a spectacular visual sense. But there are also moments that deliver shock and awe instead, sequences of such exhausting, turbocharged jeopardy that it seems like we've wandered into a Jerry Bruckheimer movie. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Los Angeles Times (Kenneth Turan)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)
My first response was that I had just seen the world's first Christmas horror movie. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC) (Ken Hanke)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Boxoffice Magazine (Kim Williamson)Boxoffice Magazine (Kim Williamson)
Once one looks away from the people to gaze at the gorgeous landscapes and fabulous objects, one feels transported by the film. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Boxoffice Magazine (Kim Williamson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Orlando Weekly (Violet Carberry)Orlando Weekly (Violet Carberry)
Seeing it may not become an annual tradition, but the children in your life will still be happy that you took them. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Orlando Weekly (Violet Carberry)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Cinema Signals (Jules Brenner)Cinema Signals (Jules Brenner)
Designed to ensure good dreams for every viewer, it should be a Christmas standard from now until, at least, the next democratic president is elected. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema Signals (Jules Brenner)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.40 out of 4 stars for Des Moines Register (Jeffrey Bruner)Des Moines Register (Jeffrey Bruner)
Robert Zemeckis has taken Chris Van Allsburg's beloved book and transformed it into a painting of breathtaking beauty but also an animated tale that's stilted and stiff. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Des Moines Register (Jeffrey Bruner)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.33 out of 4 stars for El Criticon (Antonio Méndez Casanova)El Criticon (Antonio Méndez Casanova)
Este auge del mundo de la animación está pero que la mar de requetebién, y la generada por ordenador ya no digamos. Para tirar cohetes. Pero bueno, siempre que los avances en la técnica y su presentación visual no conlleven un descuido en lo ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at El Criticon (Antonio Méndez Casanova)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.28 out of 4 stars for CineFile : il Cinema in Rete (Alberto Cassani)CineFile : il Cinema in Rete (Alberto Cassani)
Mancano cinque minuti a mezzanotte. La mezzanotte della notte di Natale. Un bimbo non riesce a dormire. E' la notte più importante, per lui, la notte della svolta: non crede più all'esistenza di Babbo Natale, tanto da non aver voluto scrivere la ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at CineFile : il Cinema in Rete (Alberto Cassani)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for Jam! MoviesJam! Movies
Chris Van Allsburg's children's picture book, The Polar Express, is a magical story about rediscovering the true spirit of Christmas that would make Charles Dickens proud. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Jam! Movies
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.25 out of 4 stars for Tiscali UKTiscali UK
Undoubtedly one of the strangest animated features in recent times, The Polar Express is a throwback to another world, specifically post-WWII America. Its message, one of insularity and looking after number one, is decidedly contemporary however, and ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Tiscali UK
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.21 out of 4 stars for cinEncanto (Pablo del Moral)cinEncanto (Pablo del Moral)
Creo que, desde la adición de sonido, no ha habido una tecnología que haya tenido mayor impacto en el cine como la tecnología digital. Desafortunadamente, creo que el impacto ha sido más negativo que positivo. La flexibilidad, el relativo bajo ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at cinEncanto (Pablo del Moral)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.18 out of 4 stars for Voir.ca Voir.ca
Polar Express, de Robert Zemeckis, nous entraîne au Pôle Nord en compagnie de Tom Hanks et d'enfants ne croyant plus à la magie des Fêtes. Serez-vous du voyage? Imaginez un conte où les "méchants" ne seraient que des enfants ne croyant plus au ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Voir.ca
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.16 out of 4 stars for Boxoffice MagazineBoxoffice Magazine
Maya. Houdini. RenderMan. Motionbuilder. Splat. It's a bit odd for a film whose intent is to distill the essence of Christmas in childhood terms to rely so heavily on the highest-end computer technology to come to life--as though filmmaker Robert ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Boxoffice Magazine
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.13 out of 4 stars for Xi-online (Julie Ng)Xi-online (Julie Ng)
Ooit was er een wijze conducteur die tegen een van zijn passagiers zei: "It doesn't matter where the train is going, more important is to make the decision to get on." Laat dit nu net de conducteur zijn die een stel kinderen in The Polar Express meeneemt ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Xi-online (Julie Ng)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.02 out of 4 stars for Cinema 2000 (Eurico de Barros)Cinema 2000 (Eurico de Barros)
Um rapaz a quem tem sido dito repetidamente que o Pai Natal não existe continua a acreditar e vê a sua convicção recompensada quando acorda uma noite para descobrir que um comboio a vapor chegou para o levar e a outras crianças em direcção ao ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Cinema 2000 (Eurico de Barros)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Village Voice (Ed Park)Village Voice (Ed Park)
When it comes to the "humans," the atmosphere collapses. Unnervingly smooth, mouths moving in strange, even frightening formations, the Polar people are the least convincing things on-screen, glaring impostors amid the otherwise painstakingly rendered ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Village Voice (Ed Park)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for MovieFreak.com (Sara M. Fetters)MovieFreak.com (Sara M. Fetters)
A young boy waits breathlessly in a darkened room, ears straining under the covers for the first tinkling sounds of Santa’s sleigh bells. The radiator sizzles and steams, the hall stairs creak and the snow gently falls to the ground, but no sleigh ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at MovieFreak.com (Sara M. Fetters)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Bangor Daily News (Maine) (Christopher Smith)Bangor Daily News (Maine) (Christopher Smith)
More like Night of the Living Dead. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Bangor Daily News (Maine) (Christopher Smith)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for The Onion A.V. Club (Keith Phipps)The Onion A.V. Club (Keith Phipps)
The umpteenth major special-effects breakthrough to arrive this year, The Polar Express brings a multitude of computer-animated Tom Hankses to the screen to spread some digitized Christmas cheer. Shot entirely in a 10'-by-10' studio space using ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Onion A.V. Club (Keith Phipps)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Visually, taking its cues (mostly) from Van Allsburg's Hopperesque art, The Polar Express is eye-popping. Storywise, however, it can be eyelid-drooping. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Philadelphia Inquirer (Steven Rea)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for ShowBIZ DataShowBIZ Data
Speeding down the tracks perilously close behind last week's The Incredibles, Warner Bros.' Polar Express is opening today (Wednesday) in advance of the Veterans Day weekend. As with The Incredibles, much of the critical attention focuses on the film's ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ShowBIZ Data
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for filmcritic.comfilmcritic.com
The first 10 minutes and the last 10 minutes of Robert Zemeckis’ digital banquet The Polar Express draw inspiration from Chris Van Allsburg’s wonderful Christmas novel of the same name. Beginning with the late-night arrival of the ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at filmcritic.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Nehring The EdgeNehring The Edge
My four-year-old son loved this film. I was ambivalent. He’s usually a better judge than I am about such things however. This is a rarity these days. Hollywood has released a family film without poop, pee, fart or belching jokes. Amazing. There’s no ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Nehring The Edge
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)
The Polar Express is a deeply confused Hollywood rendering of childhood innocence by way of computer-generated roller-coaster thrills. With Chris Van Allsburg�s short, gorgeously illustrated children�s book as its source, Robert Zemeckis� ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Q Network Film Desk (James Kendrick)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for One Guy's Opinion (Frank Swietek)One Guy's Opinion (Frank Swietek)
Perhaps there’s magic in Chris Van Allsburg’s popular children’s book “The Polar Express,” but if so it’s been pretty much eradicated in its translation to the screen. Robert Zemeckis’ elaborate CGI adaptation, which uses a process dubbed ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at One Guy's Opinion (Frank Swietek)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Decent Films - faith on film (Steven D. Greydanus)Decent Films - faith on film (Steven D. Greydanus)
Robert Zemekis’s computer-animated The Polar Express is based on the picture book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg, writer-illustrator of such beguiling picture books as Jumanji. Unlike the 1995 adaptation of Jumanji, which had almost nothing in ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Decent Films - faith on film (Steven D. Greydanus)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Steve Rhodes <Steve.Rhodes@internetreviews.com>Steve Rhodes <Steve.Rhodes@internetreviews.com>
Sorry Tom. Sorry Robert. We're just not there yet.The effects ofThe Polar Expressare sometimes stunning, as when dealing with inanimate objects, such as the titular train. But, as anyone who has seen the trailer can attest to, the human ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Steve Rhodes <Steve.Rhodes@internetreviews.com>
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Ozus' World Movie Reviews (Dennis Schwartz)Ozus' World Movie Reviews (Dennis Schwartz)
A Christmas pic set in the 1950s that is strictly for the tykes and those adults who crave the newest in groundbreaking IMAX techie wonders, not caring a lick if the story is lacking a strong human element and is a real snoozer. I thought of it more as ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Ozus' World Movie Reviews (Dennis Schwartz)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Reeling Reviews (Robin and Laura Clifford)Reeling Reviews (Robin and Laura Clifford)
Roger Zemeckis teams up, once again, with Tom Hanks (“Forrest Gump,” “Cast Away”) in an experimental animation that is the first genuine foray in what is dubbed Performance Capture. The technique is a quantum leap from the method used in giving ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Reeling Reviews (Robin and Laura Clifford)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Film Freak CentralFilm Freak Central
Robert Zemeckis' The Polar Express seems to be the culmination of a lot of his weird obsessions: his celebration of middle-class Aryan heroes; his tendency towards the tense and anxious; his love of casting an actor in multiple roles; Tom Hanks; Eddie ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Freak Central
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Mark Reviews Movies (Mark Dujsik)Mark Reviews Movies (Mark Dujsik)
The Polar Express tries to get by with charm—the charm of its admittedly astonishing visuals, the charm of its origins as a children's bedtime favorite, and the charm of its simplistic feeling of the Christmas spirit—but sometimes it takes a little ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Mark Reviews Movies (Mark Dujsik)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Boston Globe (Ty Burr)Boston Globe (Ty Burr)
Zemeckis and Hanks really seem to think they&#146;re giving us a Christmas movie for the ages and a technology that will change cinema forever. They&#146;re wrong on both counts. The Polar Express is merely a marvelous toy that has somehow become ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Boston Globe (Ty Burr)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for TV Guide (Maitland McDonagh)TV Guide (Maitland McDonagh)
The film's characters, computer-animated over motion-caputure footage of flesh-and-blood performers, are as blank-eyed and rubbery-looking as moving mannequins -- the stuff of nightmares, not dreams. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at TV Guide (Maitland McDonagh)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Variety (David Rooney)Variety (David Rooney)
This visually impressive yet emotional frigid fable could perhaps more accurately be tagged "The Bipolar ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Variety (David Rooney)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Los Angeles Daily News (Glenn Whipp)Los Angeles Daily News (Glenn Whipp)
Anyone older than, say, 10, might have trouble hearing the Christmas bells. That doesn't make you a Grinch -- just a true believer in good storytelling. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Los Angeles Daily News (Glenn Whipp)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for The Onion (A.V. Club) (Keith Phipps)The Onion (A.V. Club) (Keith Phipps)
As a spectacle, The Polar Express looks remarkable. As a film, however, it's the equivalent of an elaborately wrapped Christmas present containing a nice new pair of socks. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Onion (A.V. Club) (Keith Phipps)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Toronto StarToronto Star
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Toronto Star
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Peter SobczynskiPeter Sobczynski
When someone consciously sets out to make a Classic Christmas Film, the results tend to be fairly dire-manufactured whimsy and sentiment never comes off as well as the real thing. "The Polar Express" is just such a film-it wants to be the most enchanting ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Peter Sobczynski
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Kvikmyndir.com (--)Kvikmyndir.com (--)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Kvikmyndir.com (--)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Charlotte Observer (Lawrence Toppman)Charlotte Observer (Lawrence Toppman)
While the 29 pages of [Van Allsburg's] mini-classic would have made a superb half-hour TV special, Zemeckis and writer William Broyles Jr. have created a steroidal monster with a heart about one size too small. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Charlotte Observer (Lawrence Toppman)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Christian Science Monitor (David Sterritt)Christian Science Monitor (David Sterritt)
Many moviegoers may find its colors and effects delightful enough to make the experience a thrill. Look beyond the tinsel, though, and you may be disappointed. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Christian Science Monitor (David Sterritt)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for IndependentCritics.com (Jacob Hall)IndependentCritics.com (Jacob Hall)
I recall reading the storybook "The Polar Express" many years ago, perhaps when I was in the first grade. Even as a young lad, I didn't care for the story. It struck me as boring and unoriginal. Sure, it LOOKED pretty, but there was very little ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at IndependentCritics.com (Jacob Hall)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for filethirteen.comfilethirteen.com
All aboard for creepy CGI people, contrived sentimentality and a wrong-headed Christmas message that totally ends up defeating the film. Yes, boys and girls, it's "The Polar Express," and this is one Christmas ride from Hollywood that may better be ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at filethirteen.com
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Slant MagazineSlant Magazine
n a scene from What Lies Beneath, Robert Zemeckis's camera zooms toward Michelle Pfeiffer only to suddenly back peddle and drop into an imaginary crawlspace beneath the floorboards of her character's house so the director can capture the actress's ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Slant Magazine
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Sacramento Bee (Joe Baltake)Sacramento Bee (Joe Baltake)
It's too mechanical in its perfection and too driven and premeditated in its attempts to impress us to muster the warmth and good cheer for which it's also striving. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Sacramento Bee (Joe Baltake)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Sun Publications (Chicago, IL) (Josh Larsen)Sun Publications (Chicago, IL) (Josh Larsen)
As a general rule, I like to keep my Christmas fables Steven Tyler-free. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Sun Publications (Chicago, IL) (Josh Larsen)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Planet Sick-Boy (Jon Popick)Planet Sick-Boy (Jon Popick)
Tom Hanks makes like Peter Sellers by playing a half-dozen characters in The Polar Express, a computer animated film version of Chris Van Allsburg’s adored 1996 short story. But be warned: When I say “computer animated,” I don’t mean the good, ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Planet Sick-Boy (Jon Popick)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for KidzworldKidzworld
Based on the children's book by author Chris Van Allsburg, Polar Express comes to the big screen in a computer animated movie about the true meaning of Christmas. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Kidzworld
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Newsday (John Anderson)Newsday (John Anderson)
Watching the dead-eyed population of Polar Express and their supposedly 'natural' movements made me think more of Gollum in "The Lord of the Rings" than anything associated with Christmas. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Newsday (John Anderson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Reeling Reviews (Laura Clifford)Reeling Reviews (Laura Clifford)
Its single best scene...comes courtesy of the vastly superior, similarly themed, thirty minute UK animation, "The Snowman." ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Reeling Reviews (Laura Clifford)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for San Diego Union-Tribune (David Elliott)San Diego Union-Tribune (David Elliott)
Except for children, who might find this a breathless gift, the film's personality is defined by its locomotive: showmanship. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at San Diego Union-Tribune (David Elliott)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Creative Loafing (Matt Brunson)Creative Loafing (Matt Brunson)
Many will hail this as a classic, but a better bet for seasonal cheer would be a screening of Santa Claus Conquers the Martians under the influence of spiked eggnog. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Creative Loafing (Matt Brunson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Insights (Soh Yun-Huei)Insights (Soh Yun-Huei)
It's hard to imagine a Christmas movie being termed creepy, and an animation to boot but The Polar Express has the dubious honor of being termed one. Is it because of the mode of animation? Perhaps director Robert Zemeckis spared no expense (US$165 ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Insights (Soh Yun-Huei)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Commercial Appeal (Memphis, TN) (John Beifuss)Commercial Appeal (Memphis, TN) (John Beifuss)
This labor-intensive, high-tech, multimillion-dollar enterprise suffers in ironic contrast next to the spare elegance of Van Allsburg's oil pastel storybook. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Commercial Appeal (Memphis, TN) (John Beifuss)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Moving Pictures @ Cin3maMoving Pictures @ Cin3ma
This film is based on a popular children's novel. I saw the teaser over a year ago in a film marketing class given at USC. Now, I thought the train was nice to see, but had absolutely no clue as to what the plot was about. The teaser was clearly made ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Moving Pictures @ Cin3ma
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Deseret News, Salt Lake City Deseret News, Salt Lake City
You may wish the makers of "The Polar Express" had gone a different route with the animation in this new film — perhaps more like "The Incredibles" did with stylized human caricatures. As it is, the attempt in "Polar Express" is to make ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Deseret News, Salt Lake City
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Groucho Reviews (Peter Canavese)Groucho Reviews (Peter Canavese)
The film’s only fatal failing is its inability to make any of the characters seem real. Most of them are downright creepy in their doll-like inexpressiveness. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Groucho Reviews (Peter Canavese)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Austin Chronicle (Marc Savlov)Austin Chronicle (Marc Savlov)
In a word, it&#146;s soulless. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Austin Chronicle (Marc Savlov)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for The Land of Eric (Eric D. Snider)The Land of Eric (Eric D. Snider)
Here's what clout can get you: If anyone other than Robert Zemeckis and Tom Hanks were involved in making a film version of "The Polar Express," no one would suspect for a minute that it would be any good. The children's book it's based on is something ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Land of Eric (Eric D. Snider)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 2.00 out of 4 stars for Detroit News (Tom Long)Detroit News (Tom Long)
Zombies have their place, but not in Christmas movies. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Detroit News (Tom Long)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for 7M Pictures (Kevin Carr)7M Pictures (Kevin Carr)
“The Polar Express” is based on the classic children’s Christmas story by Chris Van Allsburg, who brought us “Jumaji.” I’m a little too old for it to have been a classic Christmas story from my childhood, and my kids are a little too young to ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at 7M Pictures (Kevin Carr)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for BBC FilmsBBC Films
On Christmas Eve a sceptical boy (Tom Hanks) awaits a fat man in a red suit when an enchanted train pulls up below his window and a mysterious conductor (Hanks again) invites him to a shindig at the North Pole. He climbs aboard to join a shrewd little ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at BBC Films
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for filmcritic.com (Sean O'Connell)filmcritic.com (Sean O'Connell)
The first 10 minutes and the last 10 minutes of Robert Zemeckis’ digital banquet The Polar Express draw inspiration from Chris Van Allsburg’s wonderful Christmas novel of the same name. Beginning with the late-night arrival of the ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at filmcritic.com (Sean O'Connell)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.75 out of 4 stars for Greenwich Village Gazette (Eric Lurio)Greenwich Village Gazette (Eric Lurio)
Some books aren’t meant to be made into movies. This is one of them. Several years ago, Chris Van Allsburg, drew a picture book, 32 pages long with a slight story and brilliant pastel pictures which delighted the eye. The wonders of computer animation ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Greenwich Village Gazette (Eric Lurio)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for Las Vegas Mercury (Anthony Del Valle)Las Vegas Mercury (Anthony Del Valle)
It takes major issues of belief and loneliness and (implied) child abuse and turns them into a Hallmark card. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Las Vegas Mercury (Anthony Del Valle)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for eFilmCritic.com (David Cornelius)eFilmCritic.com (David Cornelius)
Zemeckis had a chance to do something truly wonderful. Instead, he slaps together something depressingly mediocre. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at eFilmCritic.com (David Cornelius)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for Film Snobs (Jimmy O)Film Snobs (Jimmy O)
A film creepy as it is uncreative, The Polar Express creates a filmmaking experience that gives us Steven Tyler as a singing elf. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Film Snobs (Jimmy O)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for ShowBIZ Data (--)ShowBIZ Data (--)
...read the complete Polar Express movie review at ShowBIZ Data (--)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for MovieWeb (Sean O'Connell)MovieWeb (Sean O'Connell)
Zemeckis would rather perfect the breathtaking journey of a lost train ticket than craft an accurate human response to a child’s face-to-face with St. Nick ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at MovieWeb (Sean O'Connell)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for Arizona Republic (Bill Muller)Arizona Republic (Bill Muller)
It is a cold, distant and failed experiment, with a molasses-mired plotline and an obvious moral forced upon us like a mug of bad eggnog. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Arizona Republic (Bill Muller)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for TV Guide's Movie Guide (Maitland McDonagh)TV Guide's Movie Guide (Maitland McDonagh)
The film's tone alternates awkwardly between slightly haunted, bittersweet nostalgia for childhood innocence and an aggressive, antic cheer that smacks of trying much too hard to convince everyone they're having fun. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at TV Guide's Movie Guide (Maitland McDonagh)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.60 out of 4 stars for Las Vegas Weekly (Josh Bell)Las Vegas Weekly (Josh Bell)
All the shiny images in the world can't hide the emptiness of the narrative. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Las Vegas Weekly (Josh Bell)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for musicOMH (Shawn Fitzgerald)musicOMH (Shawn Fitzgerald)
Based on the hugely popular children's book of the same name, written by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express is the tale of a young boy who has become disenchanted with Christmas, in particular Santa Claus. He may only be about ten years old, but the ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at musicOMH (Shawn Fitzgerald)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.50 out of 4 stars for New York Magazine (Logan Hill)New York Magazine (Logan Hill)
Strap yourself in and try not to vomit, because this is more of a theme-park event than a movie—Pirates of the Caribbean in reverse, a wild ride stripped of its story, down to a rattling series of obvious, underwhelming effects. Robert Zemeckis takes ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at New York Magazine (Logan Hill)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.25 out of 4 stars for Hollywood GothiqueHollywood Gothique
THE POLAR EXPRESS wants to be a whimsical Christmas fantasy, but the spirit of Christmas gets taken for a ride and pummeled by a series of pointless, unexciting action scenes that pad the running time while adding nothing to the story. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Hollywood Gothique
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.20 out of 4 stars for The New York Times (Manohla Dargis)The New York Times (Manohla Dargis)
A grave and disappointing failure, as much of imagination as of technology. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The New York Times (Manohla Dargis)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for Rolling Stone (Peter Travers)Rolling Stone (Peter Travers)
A failed and lifeless experiment in which everything goes wrong. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Rolling Stone (Peter Travers)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for The Flick Filosopher (MaryAnn Johanson)The Flick Filosopher (MaryAnn Johanson)
If we're honest about it, there's something kinda creepy about the jolly man who lives at the North Pole, isn't there? He sees you when you're sleeping? Ewww. Slave armies of happy elves mass-producing Bratz and Dancing Elmos? Weird. Christmas ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at The Flick Filosopher (MaryAnn Johanson)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for Rolling Stone (Peter Travers)Rolling Stone (Peter Travers)
The result is a failed and lifeless experiment in which everything goes wrong. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Rolling Stone (Peter Travers)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)
"The Polar Express," from director Robert Zemeckis, is the first film in a long time to capture that ineffable whatever it is that people hope to find when they go to a Christmas movie. We know that certain something when we witness it: It's Bob Hope ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at San Francisco Chronicle (Mick LaSalle)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for Arizona Daily Star (Phil Villarreal)Arizona Daily Star (Phil Villarreal)
Either the year's worst children's film or its best horror flick. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Arizona Daily Star (Phil Villarreal)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 1.00 out of 4 stars for Eclipse Magazine (Michelle Alexandria)Eclipse Magazine (Michelle Alexandria)
Now it can be said, Santa Claus is a fascist dictator who likes to kidnap and endanger children so that they can learn the true value of Christmas. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Eclipse Magazine (Michelle Alexandria)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 0.80 out of 4 stars for www.kcactive.com (Uri Lessing)www.kcactive.com (Uri Lessing)
How many kids do you know who would find comfort in a homeless ghost who drinks his own sock juice? ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at www.kcactive.com (Uri Lessing)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 0.80 out of 4 stars for New York Times (Manohla Dargis)New York Times (Manohla Dargis)
Based on the children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, this computer-animated feature is a grave and disappointing failure, as much of imagination as of technology. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at New York Times (Manohla Dargis)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 0.80 out of 4 stars for Reno News and Review (Bob Grimm)Reno News and Review (Bob Grimm)
Frankly put, this film does not look good. It creates a bizarre, ugly world where everything seems more than a little bit off. ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Reno News and Review (Bob Grimm)
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 0.00 out of 4 stars for Mr. CrankyMr. Cranky
There is something seriously disturbing about this movie. As I understand it, the animation is produced via something called "motion capture," which means that real actors are used to create all the movements and then those movements are turned into ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Mr. Cranky
Polar Express, The (2004) scores a combined 0.00 out of 4 stars for Moviepie.comMoviepie.com
It seems like there was a moment of head scratching when The Polar Express tanked last year. It was as though all the CG wizards and Hollywood bigwigs just couldn't believe that no one wanted to look at their baby. Well here's why: like the baby on ...read the complete Polar Express movie review at Moviepie.com
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Movie Reviews: Animation
Polar Express, The (2004) Reviews
Polar Express, The (2004)

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Ratings and rankings are based on number of movie, review scores, awards & other criteria.
Overall Rating:
2.8971
Polar Express, The (2004) is ranked overall as out of 4 stars
Avg Critic Score:
2.8325
Polar Express, The (2004) is ranked overall as out of 4 stars
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