“Big Hero 6” has lived up to every expectation that could possibly be set for a modern–day Disney movie. Retaining every bit of classic wonder, heartache, humor and animated glory that a children’s movie should posses, “Big Hero 6” is a great feel–good film for the whole family.

Taking place in the fictional city of San Fransokyo, “Big Hero 6” stars Hiro (Ryan Potter), a 14–year–old super genius who would rather win black market robot brawls than put his intelligence to use in school. But when Hiro’s brother, Tadashi (Daniel Henney), introduces him to a super–college for robotics and science experts, Hiro finally becomes inspired to do something with his life.

With much help from Tadashi and his friends, Hiro attends the college auditions with his latest invention—a swarm of telepathically–controlled microbots that can transform into anything that can be thought up. Wowing the crowd and head professor Robert Callaghan (James Cromwell), Hiro is accepted into the school of his choice.

Shortly after Hiro and Tadashi leave, a massive fire sets the school ablaze with Professor Callaghan still inside. In the heat of the moment, Tadashi storms back through the doors to rescue his professor, leaving Hiro to watch helplessly as the building collapses in a fiery explosion, not only killing Tadashi, but also destroying all but one of his prized microbots in the process.

Devastated, Hiro finds himself stuck in a rut and in possession of Tadashi’s latest robotics project: an innocent and lovable robot named Baymax (Scott Adsit), who has the appearance of an inflatable marshmallow. Programmed for health care assistance, Baymax notices Hiro’s distress after losing his brother and is eager to help. Serving as the calm in the eye of the storm, Baymax is dedicated to easing pain of all sorts, certainly performing that function for a grieving Hiro.

Hiro and Baymax later embark upon an action–packed journey. The duo makes it their mission to seek out a mysterious, Kabuki–mask–wearing villain who calls  himself Yokai (Charles Adler) and is suspected of setting the inferno at the university as well as stealing Hiro’s microbots. There are jarring action sequences, humorous interludes and adorably touching scenes, but none are as thrilling as the sight of Hiro and a now–aerodynamic Baymax forming a truly heartfelt bond.

“Big Hero 6”  showcases one of the most emotionally– and visually– appealing collaborations between Disney Animation and Marvel comics. Combining the classic Disney wonder and charm with Marvel awe and action, “Big Hero 6” depicts a film that exhibits the best of both studios. It takes an obscure and little–known comic book, transforms it into something fun and refreshingly– different, while also providing loads of mainstream appeal.

The rest of the cast includes a crime–fighting group composed of Tadashi’s best friends, and fellow super–scientists. Although they serve as  a colorful band of characters who make an impression and are bound to sell a ton of action figures, this is Hiro and Baymax’s story. Their teammates form more of an emotional support system than anything, while also managing to fulfill a series increasingly–grand action sequences.

Throughout the film, Hiro, Baymax and their band of crime fighting scientists risk their lives to avenge Tadashi, and in the process, discover well–kept secrets about the fire at the university and about themselves.

Although “Big Hero 6” may not be a bonafide Disney Classic, the lovable characters make a lasting impression that teaches kids the importance of friendship, teamwork and, most importantly, to never giving up on your dreams.

It’s rare to see the hero of a movie dig themselves into as deep a hole as Hiro’s, and even rarer to see them wallow in it, even momentarily. For all the superhero hijinks “Big Hero 6” has to offer, for all the many hilarious jokes and genuinely–breathtaking action sequences, what it captures best is the heartbreaking–turned–heartwarming emotional journey of Hiro.

“Big Hero 6” is a fun, emotional and comical animated film that is great for all ages. The characters are both adorable and connectable; especially the cuddly robot Baymax. While slightly cliche at some points, it is both entertaining and heartwarming. “Big Hero 6” is undoubtedly one of Disney’s best non–musical animated films of the year.