My 8 year old daughter was truly entertained by this movie. As far as plot goes, it was easy to surmise from the trailers it was about a supervillain who had lost his crown and wanted to use 3 little girls to regain his title, but of course, like all family movies, the 3 little girls would eventually melt his cold heart.
Having at one time worked for Lehman Brothers, my wife and I both laughed at the sign "Evil Bank (formerly Lehman Brothers)".
We watched the movie in 2D, and were more than satisfied with the portrayal of the story in such. I doubt much would have been gained by 3D (it probably would have helped the portrayal of the minion clip during the credits, but that's it).
It is definitely a kids movie, but will at least amuse all ages.
I have enjoyed most of the Harry Potter movies to-date, and while this movie did have its moments, it was by far the most disappointing of the movies. No doubt, I will still get it on DVD (since I have the rest of them).
Do not get me wrong - the movie was hardly to the level where I would walk out of the theater. I had a good time, and it was filled with good characterization of adolescents challenged with their hormones, as well as good cinematography and action scenes. However, if it were not for the acclaimed fame of the Harry Potter series, I doubt this movie would have been quite the blockbuster it will likely be. I hope the next movie is better...