Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted Reviews
Anthony L
Super Reviewer
May 13, 2013
My immediate reaction to Madagascar 3 was 'Was this written by a 7 year old'?. The answer is no, it was written by Noah Baumbach! Double-u tee haitch! The story was awful. The laughs came few and far between and weren't all that funny. The only thing I enjoyed was Martin Short's Stefano. It felt like a vehicle for a video game more than anything and a lazy 3rd 'people will go see it whether it's good or not' cash in.
deano
Super Reviewer
March 22, 2011
It starts as it means to go on: with scant regard for anything approaching logic, as our four heroes - having finally made it all the way to Africa - quickly decide that they're utterly bored with life on the savannah. Dreaming of refuge back at the zoo in Central Park, they head for Europe. A movie that was concerned with plot holes or "reality" would spend ages trying to figure out how to get these four talking animals from Africa to Europe. Madagascar 3's three directors know that because they're talking animals, anything toes, and so simply cuts to them washing up on the shores of Monte Carlo. The solution? Snorkels. Well, of course.
It sets the pace for what's to come. Which is, in short, deliciously bonkers. In quick succession, the team reunite with the sardonic Skipper (co-director Tom McGrath) and his magnificently twisted penguins, clean out a casino, and find themselves pursued by the series' first human antagonist, Frances McDormand's French animal control inspector, Chantal DuBois. An unstoppable Terminatrix who's desperate to put Alex's head on her wall of furry fame, DuBois is a hilarious - if not entirely politically correct - creation, and is often the source of the film's best jokes, whether it's her unflappability and Matrix-like reactions in the insane Monte Carlo car chase (the car, of course, being driven by the penguins), or a slew of great sight gags as the action moves to Italy and she outwits a succession of bumbling local polizia.
As our heroes elude DuBois by joining a ramshackle travelling circus peopled - or should that be animated? - by deadbeat rejects desperate to recapture past glories, the pace continues to zip along, and the new characters - including Bryan Cranston as a sinister tiger with hidden depths - blend well with the existing set. In fact, if anything, the original quartet are given short shrift during the second half of the movie, bar Stiller's Alex and Sacha Baron Cohen's demented lemur, King Julien XIII, who bags arguably the movie's funniest scenes as he embarks upon a beautiful and ill-considered inter-species love affair.
In many ways, that ever-so-slightly-wrong subplot is a perfect example of why Madagascar 3 is a movie that Pixar, for all it virtues, simply couldn't make. There are no wholesome message here, and any "be the best you can be" moments feel like half-hearted sops.
Instead, this is a gleefully joyous, zany and anarchic animation where the chief issue confronted is an old one that's gripped comedians from time immemorial: simply put, make 'em laugh. While it may blunder down the odd comedy cul-de-sac, Madagascar 3 is often inspired and very, very funny.
Wonderful, adventure and lots of laugh in this third animation film of four animals.
It starts as it means to go on: with scant regard for anything approaching logic, as our four heroes - having finally made it all the way to Africa - quickly decide that they're utterly bored with life on the savannah. Dreaming of refuge back at the zoo in Central Park, they head for Europe. A movie that was concerned with plot holes or "reality" would spend ages trying to figure out how to get these four talking animals from Africa to Europe. Madagascar 3's three directors know that because they're talking animals, anything toes, and so simply cuts to them washing up on the shores of Monte Carlo. The solution? Snorkels. Well, of course.
It sets the pace for what's to come. Which is, in short, deliciously bonkers. In quick succession, the team reunite with the sardonic Skipper (co-director Tom McGrath) and his magnificently twisted penguins, clean out a casino, and find themselves pursued by the series' first human antagonist, Frances McDormand's French animal control inspector, Chantal DuBois. An unstoppable Terminatrix who's desperate to put Alex's head on her wall of furry fame, DuBois is a hilarious - if not entirely politically correct - creation, and is often the source of the film's best jokes, whether it's her unflappability and Matrix-like reactions in the insane Monte Carlo car chase (the car, of course, being driven by the penguins), or a slew of great sight gags as the action moves to Italy and she outwits a succession of bumbling local polizia.
As our heroes elude DuBois by joining a ramshackle travelling circus peopled - or should that be animated? - by deadbeat rejects desperate to recapture past glories, the pace continues to zip along, and the new characters - including Bryan Cranston as a sinister tiger with hidden depths - blend well with the existing set. In fact, if anything, the original quartet are given short shrift during the second half of the movie, bar Stiller's Alex and Sacha Baron Cohen's demented lemur, King Julien XIII, who bags arguably the movie's funniest scenes as he embarks upon a beautiful and ill-considered inter-species love affair.
In many ways, that ever-so-slightly-wrong subplot is a perfect example of why Madagascar 3 is a movie that Pixar, for all it virtues, simply couldn't make. There are no wholesome message here, and any "be the best you can be" moments feel like half-hearted sops.
Instead, this is a gleefully joyous, zany and anarchic animation where the chief issue confronted is an old one that's gripped comedians from time immemorial: simply put, make 'em laugh. While it may blunder down the odd comedy cul-de-sac, Madagascar 3 is often inspired and very, very funny.
Luke B
Super Reviewer
November 3, 2012
Madagascar continues to give us enjoyable and light comedic bites. The animals decide they must return to New York by hitching a ride with a circus that first travels around Europe. This time the penguins again steal the show, and not just because I love penguins. The big problem is, once again, the amount of flipping characters. It's seriously distracting as now the original gang and the circus gang have almost an equal amount of screentime. Some characters such as Schwimmer's Melman and Pinkett's Gloria are pretty much just background dressing now. I know I complained about each character having a separate character arc last time, but shouldn't they at least have something to do? Luckily, the jokes are better than before and some of the chase sequences add a new kind of caper comedy not seen before. McDormand as a member of animal control is a particular highlight. Fast and funny, the film should appeal to a wide audience, even those that weren't enchanted by the last two.
michael e.
Super Reviewer
June 1, 2012
Now the characters. By this point all the main characters are fleshed out very well. Ben Stiller and Chris Rock are hilarious as usual having good comedic banter with each other and David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith do great jobs at being funny as well. Sacha Baron Cohen is as hilarious as ever when he is playing King Julien, and Andy Richter and Cedric the Entertainer are both very funny as well as Mort and Maurice. The four new characters are also very well written and all great characters. Bryan Cranston is great as Vitaly the Tiger making him brutish and mean but giving him a good personality and has a pretty interesting backstory told later in the film. Martin Short is hilarious as Stefano the Sea Lion giving his usual comedic touch like has given in other films and making him very likable. Out of all the characters my favorite of the new inclusions is Gia the Jaguar played by Jessica Chasatain. She is very funny and a fantastic love interest for Alex and probably one of my favorite female characters in film due to making her funny, cute, and a very likable character. The only real character I'm on the fence about is Frances Mcdormmand's character. Dubois is a very strange villain to have in a kid's film. She's scheming yes, but she is very, very creepy. she constantly will sniff the ground or lick animal tracks to find where the animals have gone. I get that they're making her like a hunter trying to find its prey but its just creepy and not very funny and it seems like they were trying to make it funny. Not saying she isn't well written its just she's very disturbing.
Now for the animation. Now seeing how Dreamworks has had some pretty remarkable looking animated films in the past two years, I was at least hoping for something interesting to look at in this film. But you know what? this is hands down the most beautiful looking 3-D animated films I've seen in my life. The lighting and detail on the mountain, fur textures, the car and streets, buildings, it all looks just flat out beautiful and well detailed. Now I think that some animated films are very beautiful, Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 are prime examples of what I think are some of the most beautiful animated films I've ever seen, but this hands down takes the cake for most beautiful film I've ever seen. Now in terms of films that look beautiful in CG, I think the example of what I think the most beautiful looking Pixar film is Wall-E or Finding Nemo, but those films compared to just this one scene, there's no comparison. All I can say, I wish I saw this in 3D on the big screen just see how beautiful this film would've looked.
Now the Comedy. Dreamworks have had hit or miss in terms of comedy, one film could be very funny such as Megamind, or hardly getting a chuckle out of me such as Over the Hedge or Flushed Away. And at first the film wasn't really making me laugh that much. there were a few moments that made me laugh but not that much, but the further the film progressed the more I started laughing. There is very good sight gags later and some extremely good slapstick like when Alex is trying to show Gia his trapeze "skills" and constantly goofing up but she thinks that it is all part of the act. King Julien also gets some very hilarious scenes involving a bear that rides a little bike that he has a crush for, which leads to a very funny scene later in the film but I won't dare ruin it. The only real thing that everyone found funny that I personally didn't find that funny was the Afro Circus thing, its good for a little chuckle but it's not as funny as some of the other moments in the film.
Overall this is hands down the best animated film in my mind that Dreamworks has made and this has really intrigued me in what else they can do in future films after this cause so far, they're beating Pixar by a long shot in my mind in terms of quality animated films. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is either fans of the first two films, fans of dreamworks or CG animation, or just looking for a entertaining and gorgeous animated film.
Now if you know me, then you know i'm not a huge fan of the first Madagascar film. It has some funny moments but it does drag at some parts and it didn't entertain me as much as I thought it would and is just another film to throw on the okay film pile of Dreamworks animation. The sequel on the other hand is a step up. I like the idea of giving Alex a better back story, I like having the characters even more out of their environment being in africa, and having Alex's parents be the main focus was a good idea. Plus Bernie Mac does a very good job at playing Alex's father. Now I wasn't expecting much from this film, in fact when I first saw the trailer I thought this film was just another cash in by dreamworks just to make another unnessecary sequel. But what drew my attention, was the reviews it was getting. On Rottentomatoes alone the film got 78% which I was very shocked about seeing how the series has gotten pretty average reviews. The first film got a 55% and the second a 64% and to have this one get a actual good film rating on RT was shocking, especially for a film trilogy and having the films progress the further they go is very rare, especially for animated films.
Now the characters. By this point all the main characters are fleshed out very well. Ben Stiller and Chris Rock are hilarious as usual having good comedic banter with each other and David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith do great jobs at being funny as well. Sacha Baron Cohen is as hilarious as ever when he is playing King Julien, and Andy Richter and Cedric the Entertainer are both very funny as well as Mort and Maurice. The four new characters are also very well written and all great characters. Bryan Cranston is great as Vitaly the Tiger making him brutish and mean but giving him a good personality and has a pretty interesting backstory told later in the film. Martin Short is hilarious as Stefano the Sea Lion giving his usual comedic touch like has given in other films and making him very likable. Out of all the characters my favorite of the new inclusions is Gia the Jaguar played by Jessica Chasatain. She is very funny and a fantastic love interest for Alex and probably one of my favorite female characters in film due to making her funny, cute, and a very likable character. The only real character I'm on the fence about is Frances Mcdormmand's character. Dubois is a very strange villain to have in a kid's film. She's scheming yes, but she is very, very creepy. she constantly will sniff the ground or lick animal tracks to find where the animals have gone. I get that they're making her like a hunter trying to find its prey but its just creepy and not very funny and it seems like they were trying to make it funny. Not saying she isn't well written its just she's very disturbing.
Now for the animation. Now seeing how Dreamworks has had some pretty remarkable looking animated films in the past two years, I was at least hoping for something interesting to look at in this film. But you know what? this is hands down the most beautiful looking 3-D animated films I've seen in my life. The lighting and detail on the mountain, fur textures, the car and streets, buildings, it all looks just flat out beautiful and well detailed. Now I think that some animated films are very beautiful, Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 are prime examples of what I think are some of the most beautiful animated films I've ever seen, but this hands down takes the cake for most beautiful film I've ever seen. Now in terms of films that look beautiful in CG, I think the example of what I think the most beautiful looking Pixar film is Wall-E or Finding Nemo, but those films compared to just this one scene, there's no comparison. All I can say, I wish I saw this in 3D on the big screen just see how beautiful this film would've looked.
Now the Comedy. Dreamworks have had hit or miss in terms of comedy, one film could be very funny such as Megamind, or hardly getting a chuckle out of me such as Over the Hedge or Flushed Away. And at first the film wasn't really making me laugh that much. there were a few moments that made me laugh but not that much, but the further the film progressed the more I started laughing. There is very good sight gags later and some extremely good slapstick like when Alex is trying to show Gia his trapeze "skills" and constantly goofing up but she thinks that it is all part of the act. King Julien also gets some very hilarious scenes involving a bear that rides a little bike that he has a crush for, which leads to a very funny scene later in the film but I won't dare ruin it. The only real thing that everyone found funny that I personally didn't find that funny was the Afro Circus thing, its good for a little chuckle but it's not as funny as some of the other moments in the film.
Overall this is hands down the best animated film in my mind that Dreamworks has made and this has really intrigued me in what else they can do in future films after this cause so far, they're beating Pixar by a long shot in my mind in terms of quality animated films. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is either fans of the first two films, fans of dreamworks or CG animation, or just looking for a entertaining and gorgeous animated film.
Phil H
Super Reviewer
October 24, 2012
This is the main negative point for me, yes the film is of course for the kids but there is little here for the adults this time. The last films had touches of comedy or visual moments that a grownup could smirk and giggle at, this new adventure really is a kiddie playground.
The visuals are amazing but is that a surprise? Most animated films these days are amazing looking and offer something quirky in styles. Despite the visuals being this films strongest point they haven't differed to much from the last two films, of course its all sharper, bolder, slicker and brighter but all the characters still seem some what bland and generic. My first impression was the fact that the circus characters kinda look like the characters from 'Kung Fu Panda' just nowhere near as stylized.
That said the circus characters are a breath of fresh air and do look nice. 'Vitaly' the Russian tiger is a grand looking fellow and visually striking...trying not to mention 'Tigress' from...oops!. I also must confess to finding 'Gia' the female jaguar character rather sexy haha is that wrong?. Hmmm probably is but damn it she is!! the soft slinky body form, the eyes and that voice!! had to slap myself across the face a few times.
The other issue for me with this whole franchise is the off the wall craziness of it all. The animals act like humans and seem to be able to perform human activities without much shock from onlookers. There is also much silliness such as the old lady character who fights 'Alex' the lion etc...the franchise starts off OK but gets more and more surreal as it goes.
This film goes for broke as the animal characters go totally haywire to the point where you forget they are actually animals in our world, so to speak. There isn't much differentiation between animal or human, not that it will bother the target audience and this is an animated kids flick but I'm picky about these things hehe.
The circus aspect is a welcome sight as the corny thought of the animals running around various famous European landmarks didn't bode well. All the circus sequences are lovely to watch in their ultra neon glory, haven't seen any traditional circus stuff like this since 'Dumbo' methinks. The original four main characters are now quite dull but the circus guys give a much needed boost, but its still the old penguins that save the day although not at their best this time.
Does make you wonder why the franchise is still called 'Madagascar' seeing as it has nothing to do with that island anymore but hey. I feel that another may be stretching the premise end of the day, they have come full circle and we've seen a good array of animalistic sights from city bound, native Africa, at sea and classic circus. 'Always leave them wanting more' I believe is the well known saying, and that doesn't necessarily mean do loads more.
Third and final outing for the crazy animals? probably not lets be honest but do we really need another?. Not overly sure to be honest as this film is pretty bizarre yet admittedly very nice looking and probably fun for the kids.
This is the main negative point for me, yes the film is of course for the kids but there is little here for the adults this time. The last films had touches of comedy or visual moments that a grownup could smirk and giggle at, this new adventure really is a kiddie playground.
The visuals are amazing but is that a surprise? Most animated films these days are amazing looking and offer something quirky in styles. Despite the visuals being this films strongest point they haven't differed to much from the last two films, of course its all sharper, bolder, slicker and brighter but all the characters still seem some what bland and generic. My first impression was the fact that the circus characters kinda look like the characters from 'Kung Fu Panda' just nowhere near as stylized.
That said the circus characters are a breath of fresh air and do look nice. 'Vitaly' the Russian tiger is a grand looking fellow and visually striking...trying not to mention 'Tigress' from...oops!. I also must confess to finding 'Gia' the female jaguar character rather sexy haha is that wrong?. Hmmm probably is but damn it she is!! the soft slinky body form, the eyes and that voice!! had to slap myself across the face a few times.
The other issue for me with this whole franchise is the off the wall craziness of it all. The animals act like humans and seem to be able to perform human activities without much shock from onlookers. There is also much silliness such as the old lady character who fights 'Alex' the lion etc...the franchise starts off OK but gets more and more surreal as it goes.
This film goes for broke as the animal characters go totally haywire to the point where you forget they are actually animals in our world, so to speak. There isn't much differentiation between animal or human, not that it will bother the target audience and this is an animated kids flick but I'm picky about these things hehe.
The circus aspect is a welcome sight as the corny thought of the animals running around various famous European landmarks didn't bode well. All the circus sequences are lovely to watch in their ultra neon glory, haven't seen any traditional circus stuff like this since 'Dumbo' methinks. The original four main characters are now quite dull but the circus guys give a much needed boost, but its still the old penguins that save the day although not at their best this time.
Does make you wonder why the franchise is still called 'Madagascar' seeing as it has nothing to do with that island anymore but hey. I feel that another may be stretching the premise end of the day, they have come full circle and we've seen a good array of animalistic sights from city bound, native Africa, at sea and classic circus. 'Always leave them wanting more' I believe is the well known saying, and that doesn't necessarily mean do loads more.
Stuart B
Super Reviewer
October 7, 2012
Some good moments but the idea is wearing a bit thin. Seeing as it was never that funny to start with, jokes very hit and miss now. Better than the second one though.
Market Man
Super Reviewer
August 16, 2012
Afro Circus... LOL. But really, it's an alright film. The villain is incredibly annoying and there are way too many characters. Nothing too special about this third entry. Just over the top, ridiculous fun.
CloudStrife84
Super Reviewer
December 11, 2011
But first, let me give you the low-down of the story: Once again trying to get back to their beloved New York Zoo, Alex the Lion and his furry entourage start out their adventure in glamorous Monte Carlo, where they are supposed to just pick up the mischievous penguins, but accidentally attract some unwanted attention from "Le Animal Control".
Narrowingly escaping the clutches of the tenacious Captain Chantel DuBois (Frances McDormand), they hitch a ride with a traveling circus train, where they befriend some other animals of European descent, and by luck discover a possibility - if a particularily difficult one - to return to America.
Swift as a cheetah from beginning to end, this is a laugh-a-minute adventure that knows how to keep up momentum throughout its entire course. Some may find it in too much of a rush and perhaps a little deja vu, but as wonderfully witty as the gags are, I was all in favor of the more rapid pace.
Although a bit on the stereotypical side, I loved the new additions to the cast; my favourites among which include an Italian sea lion named Stefano (delightfully brought to life by Martin Short) and a pack of cute little circus dogs - one of whom is voiced by none other than Vinnie Jones!
As for the original gang, I can't help but love the performances of Chris Rock and Sacha Baron Cohen (as Marty the Zebra, respectively Julien the Lemur King). Even Ben Stiller is great as Alex and emits more energy through his vocal cords, than he's ever done in his past ten movies or so put together. Clearly, this off-screen stage is where he truly belongs.
Anyway, if you've read up until this point, and still wonder what makes this the best of the three, I can tell you in retrospect that I thought the first movie was so-so, the second a lot of fun and this latest chapter even better. Because where Shrek and Ice Age diminished with every sequel, this series has done just the opposite - bestowing some palpable truth to the phrase "third time's the charm".
Stunning in its backdrops and with a big glint in the eye, Madagascar 3 is a snappy, imaginative and consistently entertaining animation feature, that also boasts a terrific soundtrack and music by Hans Zimmer. Your kids will love it and it's got plenty of fun in store for us grown-ups as well. Highly recommended, for a great time at the movies!
"Da da dadadada circus! Da da dadadadada afro! Circus afro, circus afro! Polka dot, polka dot, polka dot, afro!"
My favourite animated comedy of the year doesn't spring from the workshop of Pixar, but something as surprising as this latest entry in the Madagascar franchise. Greatest by far in the trilogy, it's a wild and crazy rollercoaster of fun, that literally features a whole circus's worth of endearing, hilarious and colorful new characters.
But first, let me give you the low-down of the story: Once again trying to get back to their beloved New York Zoo, Alex the Lion and his furry entourage start out their adventure in glamorous Monte Carlo, where they are supposed to just pick up the mischievous penguins, but accidentally attract some unwanted attention from "Le Animal Control".
Narrowingly escaping the clutches of the tenacious Captain Chantel DuBois (Frances McDormand), they hitch a ride with a traveling circus train, where they befriend some other animals of European descent, and by luck discover a possibility - if a particularily difficult one - to return to America.
Swift as a cheetah from beginning to end, this is a laugh-a-minute adventure that knows how to keep up momentum throughout its entire course. Some may find it in too much of a rush and perhaps a little deja vu, but as wonderfully witty as the gags are, I was all in favor of the more rapid pace.
Although a bit on the stereotypical side, I loved the new additions to the cast; my favourites among which include an Italian sea lion named Stefano (delightfully brought to life by Martin Short) and a pack of cute little circus dogs - one of whom is voiced by none other than Vinnie Jones!
As for the original gang, I can't help but love the performances of Chris Rock and Sacha Baron Cohen (as Marty the Zebra, respectively Julien the Lemur King). Even Ben Stiller is great as Alex and emits more energy through his vocal cords, than he's ever done in his past ten movies or so put together. Clearly, this off-screen stage is where he truly belongs.
Anyway, if you've read up until this point, and still wonder what makes this the best of the three, I can tell you in retrospect that I thought the first movie was so-so, the second a lot of fun and this latest chapter even better. Because where Shrek and Ice Age diminished with every sequel, this series has done just the opposite - bestowing some palpable truth to the phrase "third time's the charm".
Stunning in its backdrops and with a big glint in the eye, Madagascar 3 is a snappy, imaginative and consistently entertaining animation feature, that also boasts a terrific soundtrack and music by Hans Zimmer. Your kids will love it and it's got plenty of fun in store for us grown-ups as well. Highly recommended, for a great time at the movies!
"Da da dadadada circus! Da da dadadadada afro! Circus afro, circus afro! Polka dot, polka dot, polka dot, afro!"
Kevin C
Super Reviewer
July 18, 2012
It follows the exact same formula as its predecessor, but it's pretty fun. Funny and mad-cap, but this series has run its course.
Everett J
Super Reviewer
June 25, 2012
"Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" is one of the rare number 3's, that is the best of the series. I don't know what it is about these movies, but they get better and better. Here all the gang is back(and all the original voices) and they embark on their craziest adventure yet. The penguins fly to Monte Carlo to gamble. The rest of the animals(Alex, Melman, Gloria, and Marty) want to go back to New York, so they go to Monte Carlo to get the penguins. Well, things are going good until they crash into the casino and are now fugitives on the run from a police officer who wants Alex's head. They then join a circus and the movie really takes off from there. The story is insane, but it's a family animated movie, and honestly makes the circus gimmick feel fresh(try to not sing "Afro Circus"!). The jokes are perfect for adults and kids(the penguins continue to steal the movie). I'm sure there will be a forth movie, which is fine as this franchise continues to movie in a great direction. Great family, summer entertainment and one of the better comedies of the year.
ajaymuthecooldevils
Super Reviewer
March 23, 2012
Well, to be honest I'm a little surprised how the critics rate this movie, especially if I compared it to the previous two movies.. First of all, as predicted before, there's nothing special in the side of the story because the story offers nothing special.. But if I have to comment in the effects they had, I must say that I was blown away.. Especially the circus thing, it's worth your 3D money.. And thankfully this last sequel (which makes it into trilogy), didn't destroy the franchise that Dreamworks already build.. So maybe the fourth installment will come perhaps 3-4 years again if Dreamworks really don't have any idea for another fresh new movies.. But overall for this movie, it's still enjoyable..
Drake T
Super Reviewer
June 22, 2012
Yes it's visually eviscerating, but appropriately so! I don't get why people have a problem with what they would call "sensory overload", I mean really, look at what you signed on for, Madagascar 3. The people that brought you "I like to move it, move it."
I'm sure producers are well aware that it's not some sort of... beautiful, poetic, well-crafted, emotional Pixar production. They grab the fact that it's an obtuse, frantic, explosive fury of pop-culture references, one-liners and constant over the top humor, then throttles it for our pleasure!
And sure, they're marginally cliche but the characters also have plenty of heart in what feels like a very fitting end to their misadventures.
Also, the antagonist? Captain Chantal Dubois? Quite possibly one of the most wonderfully animated villains I've seen in a long time. The way she moves, talks, everything. Just wow.
Madagascar is a sub-par entertainment franchise for children, that being said the third instalment won me over with it's stupidly uplifting themes, well choreographed animation and what can only be described as pure "fun"
Yes it's visually eviscerating, but appropriately so! I don't get why people have a problem with what they would call "sensory overload", I mean really, look at what you signed on for, Madagascar 3. The people that brought you "I like to move it, move it."
I'm sure producers are well aware that it's not some sort of... beautiful, poetic, well-crafted, emotional Pixar production. They grab the fact that it's an obtuse, frantic, explosive fury of pop-culture references, one-liners and constant over the top humor, then throttles it for our pleasure!
And sure, they're marginally cliche but the characters also have plenty of heart in what feels like a very fitting end to their misadventures.
Also, the antagonist? Captain Chantal Dubois? Quite possibly one of the most wonderfully animated villains I've seen in a long time. The way she moves, talks, everything. Just wow.
Tired of Previews
Super Reviewer
June 18, 2012
Okay, I didn't really want to but I do have kids and its summer, so we headed to the theatre to check out the only animated film at the cinema: Madagascar 3. Usually, I am not a big fan sequels especially when a series gets to the number 3 or 4 spot, but I caved when my kids asked. What's a mother to do?
Anyway, I will keep this review short.
First, I was pleasantly entertained, although this film wasn't as good as the first one but far better than the second. As with many animated movies there was a moral to the story. And as a mother, I appreciated that. However, the moral in this one may be a bit mature for most young kids as it has something to do with leaving home and learning you make your home where ever you end-up and that the grass isn't always greener somewhere else.
The story started and jumped right into the adventure very quickly with the foursome still stuck in Africa. Marty, Alex, Melman and Gloria are still waiting on the penguins to return to take them back to the Bronx Zoo. So they decide to go to Monte Carlo to find them....yep, if they can go to Monte Carlo, why can't they get back to the good ol USA? Got me. Anyway, they get there and immediately make an enemy and a few new friends whilst looking for their rescuers. That is all I will tell you about the story of the latest Madagascar movie.
The animation was spectacular. It really blows my mind what animators can do today. The detail, the depth of shapes and movements are a sight to see. This was a huge adventure movie with lots to see and to keep the kiddos fascinated. And we didn't even see it in 3D. So for that reason alone I recommend taking the kiddos to see this one at the theatre.
Most of the humor is definitely geared more towards children, but once in a while they threw in one or two for the adults. So enjoy Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted.
Directed by Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath, Conrad Vernon, Dreamworks Animation, 2012
Starring Ben Stiller, Jada Pinkett-Smith, David Schwimmer, Chris Rock, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric the Entertainer, Andy Richter, Jessica Chastain, Brian Cranston, Martin Short and Frances McDormand.
Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
My favorite thing: Honestly, the animation was spectacular.
My least favorite thing: There really isn't anything to complain about.
Length: 93 minutes
Rating: PG
Review: 7 out of 10
Question: Well, did you think I was going to see this one?
Okay, I didn't really want to but I do have kids and its summer, so we headed to the theatre to check out the only animated film at the cinema: Madagascar 3. Usually, I am not a big fan sequels especially when a series gets to the number 3 or 4 spot, but I caved when my kids asked. What's a mother to do?
Anyway, I will keep this review short.
First, I was pleasantly entertained, although this film wasn't as good as the first one but far better than the second. As with many animated movies there was a moral to the story. And as a mother, I appreciated that. However, the moral in this one may be a bit mature for most young kids as it has something to do with leaving home and learning you make your home where ever you end-up and that the grass isn't always greener somewhere else.
The story started and jumped right into the adventure very quickly with the foursome still stuck in Africa. Marty, Alex, Melman and Gloria are still waiting on the penguins to return to take them back to the Bronx Zoo. So they decide to go to Monte Carlo to find them....yep, if they can go to Monte Carlo, why can't they get back to the good ol USA? Got me. Anyway, they get there and immediately make an enemy and a few new friends whilst looking for their rescuers. That is all I will tell you about the story of the latest Madagascar movie.
The animation was spectacular. It really blows my mind what animators can do today. The detail, the depth of shapes and movements are a sight to see. This was a huge adventure movie with lots to see and to keep the kiddos fascinated. And we didn't even see it in 3D. So for that reason alone I recommend taking the kiddos to see this one at the theatre.
Most of the humor is definitely geared more towards children, but once in a while they threw in one or two for the adults. So enjoy Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted.
Directed by Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath, Conrad Vernon, Dreamworks Animation, 2012
Starring Ben Stiller, Jada Pinkett-Smith, David Schwimmer, Chris Rock, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric the Entertainer, Andy Richter, Jessica Chastain, Brian Cranston, Martin Short and Frances McDormand.
Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
My favorite thing: Honestly, the animation was spectacular.
My least favorite thing: There really isn't anything to complain about.
Length: 93 minutes
Rating: PG
Review: 7 out of 10
Thomas J
Super Reviewer
June 14, 2012
With lines like "I'm not some emotional whoopee cushion for you to just sit on for your amusement" by Kink Julien (Sacha Baron Cohen) and Marty (Chris Rock) singing about the "afro circus" this movie would be hard to beat! It is the best of the 3! The 3-D was fun also and worth the extra! FUN movie!
Carlos M
Super Reviewer
June 6, 2012
This useless sequel has a very great beginning but all the rest simply does not work. It fails to engage, fails to be amusing, fails in every lousy attempt at humor - and after some time you are left with something that is so much more irritating than enjoyable.
Dann M
Super Reviewer
January 23, 2013
A bit played out and running low on ideas, Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted delivers some laughs but doesn't have the magic anymore. When their makeshift plane crashes, Alex and his friends take shelter in a traveling circle that's on a European tour. Unfortunately, the story doesn't follow the series continuity and forces a superfluous villain that drags the film down. Yet, the animation is quite good; full of vibrant colors and dynamic designs. While some parts of the film work, most it doesn't; making Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted an uneven and uninspired adventure into mediocrity.
Bradley W
Super Reviewer
June 4, 2012
The story again follows Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria, King Julian, and the Penguins who are still trying to get back to New York City. When they journey to Monte Carlo to find the penguins, they ended up being hunted down by the villainous animal patrol woman Captain DuBois. They must find a place to hide, so they find a circus train heading to America and they become stowaways. But Captain DuBois will stop at nothing to make sure they become her prey.
The plot of the film really made the series take a step back. The second film really was sweet and had good story about family, friendship, love, and had some great comedic moments. But this film just seemed like they rushed everything and that they were just trying to think of the quickest way to end the series. I also was not a fan of this new cast of animals, which included a sea lion, some dogs, and a leopard. These new characters really didn't bring many laughs and sometimes just came across as annoying, they also were just a excuse to get the films story to keep moving, although there was a large Russian tiger that I found kept the story interesting. But the new villain of the film was the best new addition and possibly the best character of the film. She was hilariously insane, she had superhuman strength, she crawls like a spider, she can can do impossible stunts that would be too hard for Spiderman, and for me she gave the film the most laughs. Although they almost ruined her when they gave her a scene in the film where she sings opera, and it just felt akward. The main heroes are still fun and gave some decent laughs, but I didn't love the penguins as much as I did in the past films, and they used to steal every scene with their memorable and hilarious moments. The second film also had a lot of heart with the story about Alex and his parents, but this film didn't really bring the warmth that film did. But there is a sweet scene in the film that gives a great message about letting the past stay in the past to make way for the great things in the future, and they end the series very well. So overall I thought the film felt rushed and followed a very old cliche formula, but it still brought some decent laughs and will be loved by kids.
The animation of the film is great, and by far the films high point. There is a scene in the film where they perform a circus act and it was simply just dazzling (but also weird as I didn't expect them to play a Katy Perry song during the scene). The characters look as great as they ever have, and you can really see the improvements in animation over the original film from 2005. The film also has some great action scenes, that even I considered to be so goofy that it was enjoyable. So I didn't hate the film, I just thought there problems that kept it from being great. My biggest problem with this entire film was that they completely ignore the events of the previous film. The new-found relationship with Alex's parents is dead, I mean they don't even once mention his parents in this film, and yet he is just ready to leave them instantly and never see them again. I loved the relationship between Alex and his father in the second film, but in this film they just completely forget it all.
Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted ends the trilogy on a good note, but it has a story that I found predictable and (at times) cliche. I probably shouldn't say it ends the trilogy, because they probably will continue the series if it does well in the box-office, but I think they have ended it well and making more films would be foolish unless they do it correctly. The previous films were goofy, but this one goes beyond goofy and gives us total insanity, and for a while it's fun, but soon just becomes tiresome. I gave this film a huge chance because DreamWorks did such a fun job with the second film, and although it had some great animation and some decent laughs, it wasn't enough to make this film as great as I was hoping for. But after the film I asked myself the question "was I entertained?" and my answer was "yes." This film is very entertaining and fun for kids, I just felt there could've been a lot more that they could've done to make it as enjoyable as the previous film. The first Madagascar film was like this as well, it had some fun animation but the story and comedy could've been improved greatly. So overall Madagascar 3 will be a great time for kids, but I warn adults who enjoy the series that you might not find it as great as you hoped.
Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted is a beautifully looking animated film, but lacks in the story and humor that made the first sequel so great. What made the series so fun was that they weren't afraid to take risks with the jokes, and it made it enjoyable for adults and kids. This film seems to be trying too hard to be juvenile, and what I loved about the last film was all the violence and memorable moments. There are still some funny things about the film, like a love story between King Julian and a bear, and the new villain has some really insanely funny moments, but it seemed to take its level of humor a step back from the last film. Pixar has always brought us the genius animation and film making, and Dreamworks Animation has always given us the great laugh out loud animated comedies, but here I think they didn't bring the classic comedy that has made their films so great. This film may be great for the kids, but for an adult who enjoys the series, I was a bit disappointed in some aspects.
The story again follows Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria, King Julian, and the Penguins who are still trying to get back to New York City. When they journey to Monte Carlo to find the penguins, they ended up being hunted down by the villainous animal patrol woman Captain DuBois. They must find a place to hide, so they find a circus train heading to America and they become stowaways. But Captain DuBois will stop at nothing to make sure they become her prey.
The plot of the film really made the series take a step back. The second film really was sweet and had good story about family, friendship, love, and had some great comedic moments. But this film just seemed like they rushed everything and that they were just trying to think of the quickest way to end the series. I also was not a fan of this new cast of animals, which included a sea lion, some dogs, and a leopard. These new characters really didn't bring many laughs and sometimes just came across as annoying, they also were just a excuse to get the films story to keep moving, although there was a large Russian tiger that I found kept the story interesting. But the new villain of the film was the best new addition and possibly the best character of the film. She was hilariously insane, she had superhuman strength, she crawls like a spider, she can can do impossible stunts that would be too hard for Spiderman, and for me she gave the film the most laughs. Although they almost ruined her when they gave her a scene in the film where she sings opera, and it just felt akward. The main heroes are still fun and gave some decent laughs, but I didn't love the penguins as much as I did in the past films, and they used to steal every scene with their memorable and hilarious moments. The second film also had a lot of heart with the story about Alex and his parents, but this film didn't really bring the warmth that film did. But there is a sweet scene in the film that gives a great message about letting the past stay in the past to make way for the great things in the future, and they end the series very well. So overall I thought the film felt rushed and followed a very old cliche formula, but it still brought some decent laughs and will be loved by kids.
The animation of the film is great, and by far the films high point. There is a scene in the film where they perform a circus act and it was simply just dazzling (but also weird as I didn't expect them to play a Katy Perry song during the scene). The characters look as great as they ever have, and you can really see the improvements in animation over the original film from 2005. The film also has some great action scenes, that even I considered to be so goofy that it was enjoyable. So I didn't hate the film, I just thought there problems that kept it from being great. My biggest problem with this entire film was that they completely ignore the events of the previous film. The new-found relationship with Alex's parents is dead, I mean they don't even once mention his parents in this film, and yet he is just ready to leave them instantly and never see them again. I loved the relationship between Alex and his father in the second film, but in this film they just completely forget it all.
Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted ends the trilogy on a good note, but it has a story that I found predictable and (at times) cliche. I probably shouldn't say it ends the trilogy, because they probably will continue the series if it does well in the box-office, but I think they have ended it well and making more films would be foolish unless they do it correctly. The previous films were goofy, but this one goes beyond goofy and gives us total insanity, and for a while it's fun, but soon just becomes tiresome. I gave this film a huge chance because DreamWorks did such a fun job with the second film, and although it had some great animation and some decent laughs, it wasn't enough to make this film as great as I was hoping for. But after the film I asked myself the question "was I entertained?" and my answer was "yes." This film is very entertaining and fun for kids, I just felt there could've been a lot more that they could've done to make it as enjoyable as the previous film. The first Madagascar film was like this as well, it had some fun animation but the story and comedy could've been improved greatly. So overall Madagascar 3 will be a great time for kids, but I warn adults who enjoy the series that you might not find it as great as you hoped.
