Planes: Fire and Rescue

Soaring aerial sequences, blazing action and easy-going chuckles are folded into a predictable story in this animated sequel that's slightly better than its predecessor. When his old-fashioned gearbox collapses and a replacement can't be found, Dusty Crophopper (once again voiced by Dane Cook) fears his racing days are over. So he retrains as a fire-fighter under the instruction of helicopter Blade Ranger (Ed Harris) - just as a raging forest fire threatens Piston Peak National Park. The film's photorealistic flame effects add to thrill factor, while the themes of ageing and death are unusually well handled. If it does become faintly dull and preachy, the trim humour and amusing visual detailing - a pickup truck with superb pickup lines; "Motorjito" cocktails - soon get it back on the fun runway.