I haven't seen the first two movies, however I have been to the HSM on Ice w/ my children and enjoyed that. Today my wife and I decided to fulfill our promise to our daughter and take our children to the movies to see this wonderful movie. The status quo is truly destroyed in this movie. It is a wonderful movie for preteen kids to prepare them for the rigors of junior high through high school. It has an enchanting story that moves smoothly through to the end. It is a truly enjoyable movie for the kid in me and makes me wish I had the ability to grow up again. I recommend it to anyone of any age. It will leave you with a smile and maybe a tear.