The mammoth named Manny (Romano), the sloth named Sid (Leguizamo) and the tiger named Diego (Leary) have returned for another animated adventure.  This time, their Antarctic habitat is in danger of flooding due to the effects of global warming.  Tipped off by a “friendly” vulture, they begin a long march to find a boat which will take them to safety.  There is no time to waste.

            On their journey, they meet another mammoth named Ellie (Latifah).  This is a huge relief for Manny who thought he might have been the last mammoth left.  Also joining them are two mischievous possums named Crash (Scott) and Eddie (Peck) who will have their own parts to play.

            Intertwined throughout the film is a funny story about a squirrel trying to eat an acorn.  Have you seen the film’s trailer?  If so, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.  This unlucky squirrel is the best part of Ice Age: The Meltdown and generated the most vocal response from the kids and adults at the screening I attended.

            The rest of the film is so-so.  There are a few jokes to chuckle over but the storyline doesn’t offer much in the way of interest.  Kids may see it differently but as a full-price paying adult (who wasn’t tempted to by a plush Ice Age toy at the ticket counter), I expected more from this big animated blockbuster.