It's more grounded in the performances and the story, which it tells extremely well. There isn't a lot of impressive violence, crazy camera shots, etc. However, I do see why a critic may not like it. There is no negative thing to say about this movie.
For example Jackman ever so slightly altered his voice with his characters aging, which I thought was brilliant. So many of the acting choices were brilliant and subtle. The cgi was not the best, but it kind of created this fantastical other world while still being realistic and grounded.
He wasn't traditional by any means, but what he did worked. And I didn't think there was any weak link in the cast. I don't understand what people are saying about pacing issues, I thought it flowed beautifully.