The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep

"Just as the creature quickly swells from pint-size pet to gargantuan behemoth, necessitating its relocation to the Loch Ness, so the film transitions seamlessly from a gently spirited comedy to a harrowing drama that might prove frightening to especially wee tots."

"While it boasts a lower profile than many other Christmas releases, it might catch on with parents who want to take their kids to a movie that the entire family will actually enjoy. Nifty special effects and a first-rate British cast elevate this production."

"Jay Russell's winning family film is a solidly made wish-fulfillment fantasy set during World War II."

"A typical coming-of-age story filled with wonderful, moving performances."

"It's a little corny and somewhat overlong, but a sweet sensibility and stirring adventure scenes make The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep a welcome gift for anyone looking to keep kids entertained over the holidays."

"Personally, I wouldn’t take a toddler (unless he was the son of Tarantino) to this intermittently, legitimately terrifying tale of a boy and his Loch Ness monster. But everyone else should blow off 'Alvin and the Chipmunks' and show up for the best kiddie picture of the season -- and, along with 'Ratatouille', of the year."