I have nothing against computer-generated animation. I was charmed by Shrek, captivated by WALL-E, and pretty much adore everything else by Pixar. But I've been dismayed by the virtual disappearance of traditional, hand-drawn animated features over the past few years. I've never understood why the classic art form couldn't coexist peacefully alongside its CGI progeny (as well as stop motion animation, motion capture animation, and any other offshoot). That's why I'm thrilled by Disney's return to form with The Princess and the Frog (opening wide in the US on December 11) and rooting for its success.
The film appears to have been created with loving attention and features some lush, compelling artwork that only hand-drawn animation can offer. Critics, by and large, have been effusive in their praise. The Princess and the Frog has theme park tie-ins with a new Tiana's Showboat Jubilee! show at both Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom and California's Disneyland Park. A Mardi Gras-style parade leads guests to the Rivers of America where the action moves aboard the parks' paddlewheel boats.
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Photo: Tiana's Showboat Jubilee! takes place aboard the Liberty Belle riverboat in WDW's Magic Kingdom. Disney. Used with permission.