Both Hollywood trade publications were positive: David Hunter of "The Hollywood Reporter" predicted it to be a sleeper hit and called it "outstanding," while Lael Loewenstein of "Variety" called it "a visually appealing, well-crafted film [...] an unalloyed success." Bruce Fretts of "Entertainment Weekly" commented, "I have long thought that I was born without the gene that would allow me to be emotionally drawn in by drawings. That is, until I saw "The Iron Giant"." Peter Stack of the "San Francisco Chronicle" agreed that the storytelling was far superior to other animated films, and cited the characters as plausible and noted the richness of moral themes. Jeff Millar of the "Houston Chronicle" agreed with the basic techniques as well, and concluded the voice cast excelled with a great script by Tim McCanlies. "The Washington Post" Stephen Hunter, while giving the film 4 out of 5 stars, opined, "The movie — as beautifully drawn, as sleek and engaging as it is — has the annoyance of incredible smugness."