WALL-E

It's rare that a studio comes along that seems to consistently produce films with heartwarming stories, interesting characters and impeccable technical quality. But Pixar has managed to produce hit after hit, and "WALL-E" is no exception.

The charming tale of the last robot on a polluted Earth after all the humans have fled to outer space, "WALL-E" is reminiscent of the great Charlie Chaplin films. Offbeat, somewhat clumsy and completely lovable, WALL-E has been doing the same job for 700 years, unaware that his work has become futile as the planet has become an abandoned wasteland.

But the good-hearted robot finds adventure when he meets EVE, a robot sent to scan the planet for life from the spaceship that now houses all the humans. When he hitches a ride to space to be with EVE, WALL-E becomes involved in a plot to bring the humans back to Earth while trying to win the love and companionship of his new-found friend.

Though the majority of the film has no dialogue, it can still captivate the youngest of audiences. The story is entertaining and filled with heart, and WALL-E and EVE are perhaps some of the most well developed and endearing characters in any Pixar film. The movie is also a visual masterpiece, a treat for the eyes in the same vein as "Finding Nemo."

One of the first award-worthy films to be released this year, "WALL-E" could easily find itself as a Best Picture contender at this year's Oscars, and would definitely be a shoo-in to win the Best Animated Picture category. Refreshing and intelligent, "WALL-E" successfully continues Pixar's trend of producing original and entertaining fare for all ages. A