Despite a rather slow start, Surf’s Up does eventually move along, but it never engrosses you completely. The animation is impressive, but not innovative (a surprisingly murky color palette doesn’t do the film’s exotic locale justice either), and the voice-work is merely competent (save for an effortlessly charming performance from Jeff Bridges). Fortunately, the film’s clever documentary format helps to separate it from other forgettable animated fare, and the inspired soundtrack selections help bring the surfing scenes to life.

Lacking the visual flair of Happy Feet or the comic zaniness of last year’s far superior Over the Hedge, Surf’s Up is simply adequate. It won’t knock your socks off, but it is perfectly agreeable family fare and should tie the kids over until Pixar’s Ratatouille arrives later this month.