On CLIPS In December, 2009
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG

A young girl named Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) finds adventure in New Orleans after kissing a frog prince in this hand-drawn cartoon feature from Disney.

TRIVIA: What 2004 film was the last hand-drawn cartoon feature from Disney?

ROG'S VIEWPOINT
     (5 CAMS)        RATED G

Working towards her dream of owning a restaurant, waitress Tiana (the voice of Anika Noni Rose) is turned into a frog after kissing a frog prince. Prince Naveen of Maldonia (voiced by Bruno Campos) has been cursed by villainous voodoo magician Doctor Facilier (the voice of Keith David). Now Tiana and Prince Naveen must join forces to break the curse while facing danger in the Bayou and French Quarter of New Orleans. "The Princess And The Frog" is a magnificent and magical family experience. Returning to the fluid hand-drawn animation that was Walt Disney's trademark, directors Ron Clements and John Musker revive the Broadway-style musical that made their timeless classic "The Little Mermaid" such a success. Randy Newman has composed an unforgettable score with songs that capture the fairytale essence and the infectious sounds of Cajun jazz. Each song is an integral part of the story. Memorable new characters weave in and out of this cinematic gem. Louis (Michael-Leon Wooley) the trumpet playing alligator, a lovesick firefly named Ray (Jim Cummings) and blind voodoo priestess Mama Odie (Jenifer Lewis) aid the frogs in their quest to become human again. Speaking of human, the traditional hand-drawn style is well-suited to presenting the human form on the screen. Even with advances in technology, people still look unnatural in CG animated movies. Like Walt's finest cartoon features, this crowning achievement runs the gamut of emotions from joy to sorrow. Reaching back to the studio's past, "The Princess And The Frog" takes a giant leap forward in Disney entertainment.