I took my son to this film as a dutiful father, having low expectations for anything with "Meatballs" in its title. I was stunned. I loved the characters and the voice talent (especially, being a child of the 70s, hearing the resonance of Mr. T again!). It was funny, to be sure; but also poignant, psychologically insightful, and culturally sardonic. Perhaps the most striking thing is that the film celebrates INTELLIGENCE and the bonding between the two very intelligent, and ultimately non-conformist, lead characters of aspiring mad scientist Steve and meteorologist Sam(antha). Bravo, bravo, bravo! The 3-D effects, of which I'm normally suspicious, were the best I've ever seen.