MR. PEABODY & SHERMAN (****)

(2014) You have to be approaching middle age (or firmly in it) to know and appreciate the original cartoons this film is based on - and if you are and loved them, chances are the idea of modern renditions (even animated) of the genius dog Mr. Peabody and his boy Sherman on the big screen filled you with dread.  Happily, much like The Peanuts Movie, this film correctly captures the spirit and personalities of its lead characters while bringing them into modern times, when young Sherman - dealing with a school bully in the form of popular girl Penny - reveals to her the existence of Mr. Peabody's WABAC machine (a time travel device Peabody uses to teach Sherman history first-hand), which Penny then uses to disappear into the past.  Rescuing her sets the trio off on a few pretty cool adventures in time (nicely done, as well as funny and engaging enough for children, with jokes adults will also enjoy) - before their exploits cause an actual rift in time that Mr. Peabody and Sherman must correct before it's too late.  Being a fan of the original cartoons, I half-expected to dislike this film, but even with an ending that's a little too predictable the film is colorful, funny, entertaining, and worth your time.  (rated PG)