Lately, many studios have been giving Disney a run for their money in the animation department; Antz, Anastasia, South Park, and The Prince Of Egypt are the most notable titles. The latest non-Disney cartoon to hit the big screen is The Iron Giant.

This film is a sweet, good-natured story about a young, lonely boy who befriends a gigantic robot in the woods near his home. Together, they form an unbreakable bond and learn many important lessons in life.

Although the film is very reminiscent of a little film called E.T. (young boy befriends non-earthly creature in the woods), it still succeeds on many levels. The messages put forth by the story never seem preachy or heavy-handed and the animation is expertly drawn. It also features a terrific voice cast including: Harry Connick Jr. (Hope Floats), Jennifer Aniston (Friends), and Christopher McDonald (Happy Gilmore).

To top all that off, parents can take their kids without being worried about inappropriate material. Ironically, The Iron Giant has been sluggish at the box office, so I urge you to go and give this little gem a look before it disappears. You may find yourself warming up to this sweet little film.