Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you—yes, we mean you—jump into the comments below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching “The Tale of Despereaux.”

What I liked: “The Tale of Despereaux” sends a good message that you can’t always judge people or animal creatures by their cover. Despereaux (Matthew Broderick) and Roscuro (Dustin Hoffman) play likable rodent characters and kids will hopefully enjoy their many adventures.

What I disliked: This film is pretty boring and moves slowly. There is little humor and needless to say there are no appealing jokes for parents. Bolt and Madagascar 2 are much more entertaining choices. The large cast of name actors is a complete waste. The animation is dull and ugly - especially the human characters, who practically look like the Coneheads from SNL. One section of the story is unrealistic, I won’t spoil it but let’s just say one of the characters does an unforgivable act and it’s swept under the rug like it’s nothing.

Would I recommend it? No. Go see one of the more enjoyable children’s movies currently playing.

Score: 3 out of 10

Nick Conrad

What I liked: I liked Despereaux, the little mouse. Unfortunately that was about the only thing I enjoyed about the movie.

What I disliked: This movie really fell short for me. I went in expecting an adorable film that would make me laugh and teach a good lesson. Although it did teach the lesson of doing what’s right is not always popular it was difficult to keep my attention focused. This movie was about an hour longer than it needed to be and even as an adult it was difficult not to get anxious for the predictable ending. It was no surprise to me that a handful of people were leaving the theater way before it was over.

Would I recommend it? I would not recommend this movie to anyone. In fact I’ve caught myself telling people to bypass it even when it comes out on DVD and rent Wall-E, Madagascar, or some other cartoon instead. It’s a shame because this flick had so much potential. The trailers led me to believe it would be so much better.  I wonder what exactly went wrong in the planning?

Score: 3 out of 10

Ashley Grant

What I liked: This was enjoyable on many levels.

First, I noticed there were a number of well known actors doing the character voices and that the animations were nicely rendered, with fluid movement in a variety of techniques.

Also the plot had many facets, that managed to develop a unique storyline—thread throughout this charming landscape of fascinating personalities and species, that illuminated a heartwarming story.

What I disliked: Was a little uncomfortable with the social distinctions that separated the mice from the rats, but this was reconciled to a degree.

Would I recommend it? Yes, I feel it is quite entertaining for both children and adults of all ages, I heard laughter from both.

Score: 10 out of 10

Michael Ritenour