“… tweaks the more objectionable details of conventional fairy tales while still retaining their traditionalist structure. It’s a nice compromise.”

“A poor job of world-building undermines this French-Spanish animated effort…”

“…argues that grief and sadness have their proper place in the childhood experience.”

“…a film seemingly built on nothing more than slight sketches and quick brushstrokes.”

“…awfully weaponized for a movie that’s ostensibly about mercy and caregiving.”

“…looks as if it’s made from materials found in the back closet of an arts-and-crafts class.”

“…a clarion call for the legitimacy of imagination – not only in stories, but in the real world.”

“…a crudely calibrated series of ‘thrills,’ each timed for maximum sustained interest.”

“While there’s no doubt Williams brings a new level of energy to the picture, I’m not sure this Middle-Eastern folk tale is enhanced by Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson impersonations.”

“…a story about storytelling, and how folk tales and real life can intermingle.”