With a more streamlined script, or even fewer characters and more developed relationships, "Abe" could have made a real impact. As it stands, there are too many cooks in the kitchen.

A great measure of "Abe"'s success is that it made me hungry. More than that, it's the first movie in quite some time to make me smile.

The movie is apparently aimed at younger viewers with its clean, simplistic message of unity, but it's doubtful many kids (or adults) would want to sit through those tiresome shouting matches that overwhelm the film's other flavors.

It’s an enjoyable watch, but it’s missing that one ingredient that could take it to the next level.