The opening sequence is one of the most impressive animated scenes, right up there with the Circle of Life and the wilder beast stampede from the Lion King. While the rest of the film doesn�t quite manage to hit the same high note as this sequence, it still is beautifully animated, mixing traditional animated techniques and computer animation, the opening scene showing how impressive this blending is.
The film uses computer animation to mimic camera movements, which adds to this films �realistic� feel. However, the traditional animators deserve plenty of praise too, drawing the most difficult animal to animate, the horse. Despite a few inaccuracies, these horses move, sound and behave like real horses. Another challenge the animators managed to meet was to convey what the horses are �saying�, as none of the animals in this film talk. This is managed using human facial expressions, as well as natural horse sounds and movements.

The music and songs in the film also helps to convey Spirits feelings and attitude. Hans Zimmer�s sweeping musical score is lovely to listen to, and fits well with the scenes playing out. The songs by Bryan Adams, along with Matt Damon�s narration, are useful in showing Spirit�s thoughts to the audience. While this isn�t really necessary as the music and facial expressions are enough, the songs are pleasant enough, and don�t really distract too much from the story. And one important point to mention is the lack of Disneyfied singing and dancing animals, which is a relief.

Another good point about this film as it doesn�t rely on typical annoying Disney sidekicks for humour. Instead, humour comes from the actions of the main characters, examples of this include when Rain tells of Spirit for chasing Little Creek, the two foals in Spirits heard, and Spirit tipping paint over Little Creek. The great thing about these jokes is that the humour is universal; children and their parents can get them. This make a change from most animated films, which rely on adult humour to keep the adults amused, with fart jokes for the kids.

However, the film does have some flaws. The main problem being the repetitive nature of the storyline. Spirit is captured, the escapes, then captured, then escapes again. Another problem is that the film relies on coincidence too much, sure Spirit encountering the Colonel and the cavalry twice may be believable, but three times is a little too much.
Another thing is that the narration seems a little flat, as well as being unnecessary. However, as mentioned above, this doesn�t take too much away from the film.

In conclusion Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron is a lovely film, with stunning animation, nice humorous touches and wonderful music that both parents and children can enjoy, despite a few minor flaws.