Sequels very rarely equal never mind better the originals. There have been exceptions too the rule however, for instance, Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi beat the first in the Star Wars series, and Wrath of Kahn blows Star Trek the Motion Picture right out of the water, as indeed does the Search for Spock. So I'm happy to report that Ice Age two is every bit as good, if not better than Ice Age 1. Sure some elements remain the same, the theme of family is used again as is the eternal quest for poor Scratch to get that precious nut. But with it comes a gentle environmental message about global warming, but it isn't rammed down your throat and the film has many laugh out loud moments.
Visually as impressive as the original and full of fun. Well worth a watch.