Balto - 4 stars out of 10

Balto - 4 stars out of 10

"Balto" is another one of those non-Disney animated films from the 90's that is enjoyable for kids but fails to achieve Disney standards.  It may not have the greatest animation or script, but I really enjoyed the film because of its cool (though loose) portrayal of the famous 1925 serum run to Nome.  The live-action intro starts the film with a "true story" feel and the live-action outro brings significance to the story (and maybe even a few tears).  I do take issue with a few of the characters (mainly Boris and the polar bears) who entertain younger kids but were really annoying for an adult.  That's really the difference between Disney animation (fun for the whole family) and the 90's imitations (geared toward kids to fill the seats instead of achieve cinematic perfection).  I expected a bit more from a film produced by Steven Spielberg; then again, look at "Indian Jones/Crystal Skull."  But aside from that, there is quality voice acting by Kevin Bacon, Bridget Fonda, and Jim Cummings and a really awesome bad guy in Steele.  "Balto" is an enjoyable family film and, though it can't compare to Disney, I'd watch it again (...and would likely cry again).