freedom (fre - dem) noun. the state of not being coerced or constrained by fate, necessity, or circumstances in one's choices or actions.

      That may be the textbook definition of freedom, but from a cinematic perspective, it doesn't get much better or more effective than the new DreamWorks animated adventure "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron." Not only is the touching film a surefire front-runner for next year's Best Animated Feature Oscar, but thanks to a beautifully told story about the importance of family, friendship, love, and sacrifice, the aptly-titled "Spirit" is sure to gallop right into the hearts of moviegoers everywhere as an instant animated classic.

      Spirit (Matt Damon) is a rambunctious mustang stallion who roams the untouched American frontier with his herd, but when the U.S. Cavalry invades the area to pave the way for a new railroad, their independence is threatened. Spirit warns his herd of the impending intruders in time for them to make their escape, but not before he is captured by an embittered Cavalry Colonel (James Cromwell) who becomes obsessed with taming the young stallion. Just when it seems like all hope is lost, Spirit befriends a kind-hearted Native American (Daniel Studi) who helps him escape from his captors, proving once and for all that freedom cannot be tamed.

      "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron" is not a Disney movie, but thanks to its blend of humor, heart, and adventure--not to mention a premise that's similar to live-action classics like "Black Beauty," "The Black Stallion," and 2000's under-appreciated "Running Free"--it sure feels like one. It also breaks new ground by seamlessly blending traditionally animated characters with computer generated backgrounds to form epic scenes that are truly breathtaking to behold (especially during the film's opening sequence).

      Maybe that's because it was co-produced by Jeffrey Katzenberg, who helped revitalize Disney's animation division back in the early '90's with box office hits like "Beauty and the Beast," "The Little Mermaid," and "The Lion King." Judging by the emotional power of "Spirit"--not to mention the phenomenal success of last year's Oscar-winning computer-generated fairy tale "Shrek"--Katzenberg is ready to climb on his high horse and do the same thing for DreamWorks animated division as well.

      Matt Damon provides a sparse, understated voiceover for Spirit as he looks back on his life, but for the rest of the film, the stallion resorts to sounds, gestures, and facial expressions to reveal his thoughts and emotions. In addition, James Cromwell and Native American actor Daniel Studi give powerful voices to their characters, while Bryan Adams' touching songs provide additional narrative for Spirit's adventures.

      Unfortunately, while "Spirit" is incredibly moving, it is not without its flaws. The movie can be redundant at times, there's not much of a plot, and most of all, the genuine feeling of happiness that closes the film is somewhat tainted by the reality of what ultimately happened to the Native Americans and their land. It also doesn't help that at a time when other movies are portraying U.S. soldiers as patriotic heroes, the soldiers here are actually the bad guys.

      Then again, in light of current events, any movie about freedom means a lot more now than it did a year ago. Spirit's persistence emphasizes that whether it's on a personal level or a global scale, freedom is worth fighting for, and as he embarks on his incredible journey to reunite with his herd, there's no better way to watch this enchanting adventure than with a herd of your own.

Scott Alan, 2002