The sound of their voices is enough to ring a bell. That squeaky, distinctive high-pitched tone is unmistakable. Yup, the Chipmunks are in town and they're here with a bang! I have to admit that I went into the cinema fearing the worst. You know how Hollywood is when it comes to reviving classics (Garfield anyone?). I grew up watching Alvin and the Chipmunks, the same way I did with Transformers, SilverHawk, Thundercats, Ewok and so on. It's one of those shows that had been re-done a number of times (they debuted in 1958) and disappeared around the early 90s.
One thing's for sure; you can't help but LOVE those chipmunks. They're incredibly cute despite being so life-like. They all have their personalities INTACT, and I believe this was important in order to make the movie work. There's Alvin, being the troublemaker as usual, Simon the smart one and Theodore the adorable one. They are real "characters" here and not just simply plonked-in CGi. And yeah, you won't even mention the word CGi because they blend in so well with the entire movie. Deservingly the stars of the show, they steal every scene that they're in. Sadly I can't say the same about Jason Lee, who plays their "father-like" care-taker Dave Seville in the movie. Sure, he's funny at times, but boy does he try too hard, seemingly forced most of the time. He does get better towards the end though. David Cross plays an evil music producer Ian (acting's a lil wooden too, but not as bad as Lee), who wishes to exploit the chipmunks to make lots and lots of dough. He's not some overly evil lunatic like most movies, and since it's children's fare, he does fine for his role.
It has a pretty typical feel-good storyline with slight twists here and there, but what makes the Chipmunks movie shine is that it doesn't try to be what it's not. It's entertaining, it's funny, it's cute, it's definitely suitable children to enjoy in time for Christmas. So many times throughout the movie I heard them scream "sooo cuteeee!!! comel gilaaaa!!! awwww!!! eeeee so cuteeeee!!!" at the sight of the chipmunks, which I admit, were sickeningly cute. Especially Theodore with his eating and sleeping habits (check out his "I had a nighmare" scene). They're mischievous, they're naughty but I'm sure almost every parent can relate to handling children the way Dave has to with the chipmunks.
Oh, and how could I miss the most important part? The SINGING! I tell you you'll love the singing... brings back tons of memories as they belt out their original hits, it'll definitely create a new wave of fans as the trailer suggests. From their classic "Chipmunk Song" (Christmas Don't Be Late) to their timeless "Witch Doctor"... they're just so lovable! Check it out when they belt out modern hits like "Dontcha" and even dress up like P.Diddy (some of them sung at the unlikeliest places). I do hope they come out with a new album because I bet the children will want them. They may as well market chipmunk dolls too while they're at it.
I'll leave the rest as surprises. If you don't mind the slightly numb acting (maybe it's just me) of the live-action people, you'll enjoy this movie. Unless you've got a phobia of rodents, my advice is watch it, you can't go wrong with talking, singing chipmunks~
PEACE and God Bless,
Aris
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