Don't listen to the critics...go see Cars2!!
I read the Associated Press review (the one with clunker in the title) and marvel at the author's jaded intellectually superior perspectives. If you only read critic's reviews and miss out on viewing this movie with your child, it would be a shame. As with all Pixar films, the visuals are stunning but the Cars have character and, particularly Mater, heart. The anti big oil was a bit overdone but other than that, an engaging film that had my son and I gripped with suspense, laughing and it even allowed me to explain spy movies and James Bond, something to look forward to when he's older. Tip..it does have a fair amount of tension. Read a Cars2 book before you go to set expectations and let your little one know everything will be okay.