Niko: Beyond the Northern Lights: Friendship Above Competition

Niko returns for a third animated adventure, twelve years after his previous film. In Niko: Beyond the Northern Lights, the young flying reindeer hopes to follow his father into Santa's flying team. A new competitor, Stella, challenges that ambition.

When Santa's sleigh is stolen just before Christmas, Niko sets out toward the northern lights to save the holiday. Flying squirrel Julius and weasel Wilma accompany him. The rescue gives the familiar characters another adventure while Stella brings a welcome new dynamic.

Kari Juusonen and Jørgen Lerdam direct. The animation has developed noticeably since the earlier films: the flights have energetic camera movement, and the wintry landscapes are detailed and attractive. Some sequences feel excessive, however, and may be overwhelming for younger viewers.

Friendship, rivalry and self-discovery run through the story. Niko has to find his place and learn that strength is not only a matter of winning a competition. Working together matters too. Stella's determination gives that idea an effective counterpart rather than leaving it entirely to Niko.

Eímear Noone's music supports the emotion and suspense. Comic interludes, particularly those involving the lemmings, lighten the action and provide laughs for different ages.

Niko: Beyond the Northern Lights is a successful family adventure. Suspense, humor and worthwhile themes combine into an appealing film for the Christmas season. Existing fans and newcomers alike have reasons to enjoy the journey.