What a relief to watch an animated movie without 3-D glasses! And what a pleasure, after a season of bland computer-generated tales, to be swept up in the visual magic of "The Princess and the Frog," the two-dimensional, handsomely hand-drawn feature that is classic, whimsical Disney.

The story, set in Jazz Age New Orleans, features Disney's first major African-American female lead and its most extensive black cast. It also is the first hand-drawn animated feature from the studio since 2004's "Home on the Range." "Princess" is akin to "The Little Mermaid" in its blending of gorgeous backdrops, catchy musical numbers and a plucky heroine.

But unlike dreamy mermaid Ariel, Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) is a hard-working woman. While her friend Charlotte (Jennifer Cody) encourages her to daydream about a handsome prince, Tiana prefers to rely on determination to achieve her dreams.

Tiana's goal is to open a restaurant in the French Quarter, and she is dogged in its pursuit, saving the money she earns at a cafe.

Meanwhile, Prince Naveen of Maldonia (Bruno Campos) has come to New Orleans to find a rich bride after his parents cut him off. He turns to the witch doctor Facilier (Keith David), whose assistance results in Naveen's transformation to a frog.

Soon the fairytale premise turns on its head when Tiana meets the frog prince and gives him a smooch. But instead of returning Naveen to his human self, Tiana turns into a frog, too.

The movie captures the traditional Disney aesthetic, with some up-to-date spins. Tiana is African-American, while Naveen's ethnic origins are less evident. The film embraces diversity in a natural way. The film's ethos is summed up by voodoo priestess Mama Odie (Jenifer Lewis) in her native patois: "Only thing important is what's under the skin."

Where "Pinocchio" was about wishing on a star, "The Princess and the Frog" emphasizes backing up wishes with hard work. That proviso is a thoughtful message for young moviegoers.