I can see why people are levelling such criticisms at the film. Lightening McQueen is not a nice character. He is selfish, brash and arrogant. It is the first time Pixar have opened a story with an immediatly dis-likeable character, but that is the point. The story, obviously watered down for children, is one about personal redemption. Coming from a place where you believe you are the centre of the Universe to a place where relying on others is a strength. It's almost like a kids version of "One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest" but without the labotomy. The assembled voice talent is superb all round. Owen Wilson as McQueen is top notch,a spot on piece of casting. His droning tone and ability to convey selfishness is the lynchpin to buying into the character. Paul Newman pops up as grumpy Doc. Personally, i thought it was Burt Reynolds, but still a great vocal choice.

Of course we need to mention the animation, which is again superb. The backgrounds (roads, building etc) are absoluterly superb. The main characters are cartoony enough for the children, but some of their detail is spot on.