Ok, so it's not out until March 23rd, but we had to tell you about this clever flick based on the book by Roald Dahl (you know, the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory author..) and starring the voices of superstars like George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, and Owen Wilson.
First off, it's a bit bizarre. The animation is superb, but at times leaves you wondering what exactly you're looking at. The way the characters are made to be so human-like is truly the key to why this film works. It's fun, funny, and very engaging for an animated feature.
The story line involves Mr. Fox, a former thief who goes straight so he can raise a family. When presented with the option to move across the way from 3 corrupt farmers, however, the tempation to pull off one last major heist is too much. He dives right into to his old life, thereby alienating his family and putting the entire underground animal world in danger.
What we loved: This film is hilarious. I loved the character development of creatures as simple as a possum (who frequently zones out with blank eyes like a real possum would) and how animal behavior is injected into people-like scenarios. There is a lesson to the madness that is Mr. Fox's life -- his wife threatens to leave him after he betrays her, and in the process of making amends to everyone around him, he finds value and worth as a father, husband, and leader -- even though it isn't an exciting or glamorous as a con man.
What we didn't love: This film is rated PG for some dangerous situations (Mr. Fox loses his tail in an altercation with a farmer, references are made that if the foxes get caught the farmers will "kill the children.") There is also a questionable use of swearing throughout the film. No, they don't say the words.. but rather substitute every swear word with the word "cuss." While I wasn't offended, personally, parents will want to decide how to treat this use of language. (If you don't want your 2-year-old saying, "What the cuss?" -- this may not be the film for you.) On the other hand, the creative use of slang led to a worthwhile discussion at our home about appropriate language and what constitutes swearing. Since the word "cuss" isn't all that memorable to young kids, my children have already forgotten about the specific terms, but remember what they learned about our rules for language.
We really enjoyed this film. My husband and I were rolling throughout. The kids were entertained, but much of the witty banter went way over their heads. I think that when you can find a film that isn't dumbed-down to the point that the parents are waiting for it to be over, you've got a winner. Fantastic Mr. Fox is that winner.
Check out this Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment film on Amazon (aff) or your favorite video retailer on March 23rd!
Wanna Win? We have 3 copies of this film to give away. To be entered, just comment on this post with why you think you might want to catch this flick! You have until March 10th at 11:59 am CST to get your entries in, and you can enter every day! (Just comment as directed for your first entry, and for each entry after that, type "Today's Entry!")
Giveaways are subject to complete site rules. Open to persons 18+ U.S. only, please. (Be sure to give us a way to reach you if you win, and remember that we will never use your email or contact info for anything other than to send your prize.) Good luck, and be sure to check out all of our other giveaways!
* A DVD screener was provided for this review.
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