Ever since "Planet of the Apes" debuted last year, I have anxiously been awaiting the release of this film. The trailer that accompanied "Apes" showed a small, furry animal attempting to bury what appeared to be an acorn in the frozen ground. His struggles end up causing a huge fissure in the snow and, suddenly, an avalanche of major proportions begins. This is also the opening of this destined-to-be classic. Shortly after Scrat (a prehistoric squirrel/rat) causes the avalanche, we are introduced to varied species of animals heading south as the cold weather approaches. Among the traveling circus are Sid the Sloth and Manfred (called him Manny) the woolly Mammoth. A series of misadventures pair these two together. At the same time, a pack of sabre-toothed tigers are preparing to attack a tribe of early humans. Bent on revenging the animals who have been sacrificed for the humans clothing, the head of the pride demands that a newborn baby be brought to him. During the ensuing attack, the child and his mother attempt to escape. Soon, it is up to Sid and Manny to ensure the child's safety and return him to its tribe. They are soon joined by a member of the tiger pride, Diego. He offers to lead the group to where the humans are, but he is actually planning to lead them back to his fellow tigers, where a feast of Mammoth will be much appreciated.

This is just the beginning of an incredible journey that takes our motley "herd" through an enjoyable series of adventures. As the trip goes on, they begin to build on their friendship, each learning much about themselves by learning about each other. Along the way, Scrat and his acorn keep showing up, adding much comedy to the story. The animation in this film is incredible. The various use of direct light on the fur of these creatures is beyond believable. As much as Pixar touted the fur on their various "Monsters, Inc." characters, "Ice Age" makes it look like "Gumby" in comparison.

The voice talent is perfect. Denis Leary is very low key as Diego. As the slightly lispy sloth, Sid, John Leguizamo is hilarious. But to me the standout actor in this group is Ray Romano, who voices Manny. I must admit here that I have never watched Romano's television show. In fact, my only knowledge of his work is a dead-on spoof of ESPN Sportcenter that he did on Saturday Night Live. As Manny he runs the gambit of emotions and runs them like a champ!

A sure nominee next year for the Oscar for Best Animated Film, "Ice Age" is easily the best film I've seen of 2002. I recommend it highly.