Ok, I’m just going to get this over with right away so I can say it and move on. “Over the Hedge” is based on what amounts to a very stupid premise. I mean a whole subdivision is built during the winter? When and where does this happen? Even in Las Vegas where construction is extremely fast on homes, this doesn’t happen. I know it’s an animated film and we must suspend a certain level of belief just to watch it, but come one, it just doesn’t make any sense.
So, that being said, I loved this movie. After seeing the previews a hundred times and the “First Look” piece at Regal Cinemas a hundred more, I was cautiously optimistic about it. However, it really lived up to the good expectations that I had for it. Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell, Wanda Sykes, William Shatner (as well as a wealth of others) are all excellent as the voices for the characters. Thomas Haden Church voices the Verminator.
The jokes are funny for both kids and adults. The storyline is well thought out despite the poor initial premise. I really was pleasantly surprised at just how much I enjoyed watching it. So, after getting over the first impression of the plot, I really had fun. I must say I was glad I knew about it ahead of time, otherwise I probably would have had a more negative reaction to the film while watching.
Acting – B+
Director – B+
Writing – B+
Cinematography – B+
Overall, I give this movie a B+, worth a matinee ticket and then some.
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