We all have our own opinion on these. Looking at the 1 star and 2 star reviews I disagree with most, but for me "personally" it was by far the best movie I've seen this year. Probably not PIXAR great but overall the use of Elements representing cultural background, ethnicity was creative. Story was decent, I wish there was more to it because to some degree it was pretty basic but it relates so well with a lot of people like Ember realizing that her parents had sacrificed a lot for her and that her dad wanting her to take over the shop, while at the same time realizing that she has found her passion and has to deal with all that stuff and also falling in love with Wade, her knowing that her parents will disapprove. It relates to most of us. That's why the movie found success in other parts of the world. Like i said we all have our own opinion and this is mine. I found the visuals to be very intriguing and the creativity with the use of "Elements" as the living beings, it just works well with everything.