"Rise of the Guardians": DreamWorks' Upcoming Epic

It's official: I'm looking forward to DreamWorks Animation's "Rise of the Guardians". From what you can see in the latest trailer, it looks amazing. The studio has really stepped up their game, both in story and animation, starting with 2010's "How to Train Your Dragon".

 This particular story might come as a special treat for the child in all of us. Not that animation is specifically for the younger crowd, I'd rather not generalize the medium, but the characters and plot presented might appeal to those of us who grew up with a more familiar connection to these figures. Besides Santa Clause, or in this case "Nicholas St. North", who is undoubtedly the most recognizable of the bunch, I doubt many kids nowadays even know who characters like the Sandman are. Sure, most people have Christmas carol playlists continuously filling their home with good cheer during the holiday season, but does the average viewer really know the origin of the likes of Jack Frost? Not that that should matter if you're setting out to enjoy this film for what it is, a modern take on fantastical beings, I just thought it was interesting that DreamWorks decided to shine a spotlight in this direction.

The character of Jack Frost (voiced by Chris Pine) is prominently featured in this trailer, so I can only assume that he is the lead protagonist, and a good one at that. There really is some extraordinary craftsmanship in his appearance (though I could have done without the Bieber-esque hoodie) and his physical performance is intriguing as well.

In an attempt to revitalize the image of these fabled  creatures, DreamWorks made a curious choice in drastically altering their version of the Tooth Fairy from a wand-toting, tutu-wearing wonder woman to a brightly-colored, avian-like forest creature. We should be thankful for this creative decision; need I remind you of Disney's film starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson? I think we can give DreamWorks some credit for avoiding the ultimately disastrous lure of stunt-casting. Also, Santa Clause gets a significant make-over, though it's not as uncommon to see studios stray from the typical rotund, elderly workman persona in their depiction of St. Nick. All other character designs are splendid and the voice cast, which also includes  Isla Fisher, Hugh Jackman, Alec Baldwin, Jude Law, and Tom Kenny, should make this a strong competitor come opening weekend.

 I am confident that this film will be a winner. If not an all-around critical success, it's sure to be a uniquely entertaining experience.