It’s generally a good bet to keep your guard up when someone tells you “this is the best holiday movie of the year.” And when it comes to being impressed, I’m one of the toughest people out there to win over. So tough, in fact, that I’ve actually lost a few friends in reference to this. (You’d think at the end of the day people could just be adults.)

Rise of the Guardians, however, made me a believer. Oddly enough, that’s the theme of the movie: showing wonders to reignite beliefs and summon childlike awe.

When Pitch Black (the Boogeyman) decides he wants to poison the dreams of children with fear and panic, the spirits of holiday, known as “the Guardians”—Santa, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman—enlist the aid of new and reluctant member Jack Frost to stop the corruption of youth with fear.

This story is impressive, using elements of the superhero and fantasy genre and blending them into something seamless and inspiring. As I’ve said before, the trend of kids movies being some of the best movies currently showcased is not only interesting, it’s very telling. This movie keeps you delightfully entertained from the first minute.

And, let’s not forget the actors here. I was blown away when I read the cast list, which I invite you not to do. Leave the surprise. Preserve the wonder. Respect the art.

And when you do find out who the actors are, if you were surprised from the beginning that is to say, remember that it is a child’s ability to sit and learn, and not their lack of life experience, that helps them see things with a fresh perspective. And that’s what this motion picture is all about.

Seriously, go see this movie. And hey, shoot me an e-mail at justin@boropulse.com and let me know your thoughts on this or any other film. I’d love to hear from the readers, and talk shop in regards to movies.