Brother Bear 2 (G, 2006)

BROTHER BEAR 2 reunites viewers with boy-turned-bear Kenai (Patrick Dempsey); his cub sidekick, Koda (Jeremy Suarez); and moose brothers Rutt (Rick Moranis) and Tuke (Dave Thomas). The movie also introduces several new characters, including Nita (voiced by Mandy Moore), Kenai's childhood sweetheart from his days as a human with an Inuit tribe. (Fans of the first movie will recall that the Great Spirits turned Kenai into a bear to teach him a lesson and guide him to his true self.) Now a young woman, Nita is preparing for marriage. But her heart still belongs to Kenai, and the nuptials are ultimately postponed. Innoko (Wanda Sykes), the tribe's "sha-woman" consults the Great Spirits and instructs Nita to find Kenai. To free themselves from their lingering connection, the two must journey to their favorite childhood hideaway, Hokani Falls, and burn an amulet that Kenai gave her years ago.

Set in the Pacific Northwest after the Ice Age, the movie explores themes of friendship, love, courage, and -- literally -- transformation. More lighthearted than its predecessor, Brother Bear 2 still features the original's mystical feel and stunning animation (a depiction of the northern lights is especially beautiful). Songs by Melissa Etheridge capture the range of emotions between Nita and Kenai -- from excitement to heartbreak.

Conveniently, the Great Spirits give Nita the ability to speak "bear," and the rest of the movie follows the duo -- accompanied by third-wheel Koda (Jeremy Suarez) -- on their journey. Along the way, they encounter a group of lawless raccoons; Rutt and Tuke, the bumbling moose brothers who are constantly on the prowl for some girlfriends; and one mean avalanche. They also gain a greater understanding of friendship and unconditional love. A recurring theme is the idea that "once you love someone, they stay in your heart forever."