Carving itself a cool niche alongside Disney's very best animated output, this rip-roaring fairytale (which takes its cue from Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen) has everything you want for Christmas: belting songs, soaring hearts, snappy jokes and an inspirational reworking of the traditional happy ending.

Having been forced to isolate herself because of her icily magical powers, Princess Elsa shuns her sister Anna's attentions for fear that she may harm her. But when an outbreak of eternal winter sends Elsa into exile, Anna is in hot pursuit, aided by (among others) talking snowman Olaf who could give Shrek's Donkey a run for his money in the comic sidekick stakes. Blessed with not one but two resourceful heroines, and painted with a glittering digital palette which conjures a spectacular backdrop for the romping action (Arendelle and its environs are part Norway, part Narnia), this is terrifically enjoyable – romantic, subversive, engaging and enthralling. Take the family – and make sure you arrive in time for the supporting short Get a Horse, which bridges the gap between old-school Mickey Mouse doodles and fancy-schmancy 3D digimation with aplomb.