Review by Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong
Alvin and the Chipmunks are back and better than ever.
In the fourth installment of the Chipmunk Franchise, Alvin, Simon and Theodore are in fear of being left behind by Dave (Jason Lee) because they think he’s going to propose to his new girlfriend. They have three days to get to him and stop the proposal, saving themselves not only from losing Dave but possibly from gaining a terrible stepbrother.
This Film thrives from the script. These beloved Chipmunks are feeling a very human emotion of abandonment from their father. The fear these Chipmunks face is something real which audiences can relate to. When the Chipmunks and their soon to be stepbrother head out on the road to stop the proposal, they learn something valuable. That is, to get to know people before you judge them. It’s important to consider people’s actions based on the problems they are going through. This message is one that has been missing from the prior Films in the Chipmunk franchise.
Where The Road Chip is lacking is in the great music which the Chipmunks are synonymous for. In fact, we are rewarded only late when the last song is performed. Yet, the Film is great for parents and children for the wonderful message it gives.
Plus there is a hilarious performance from Tony Hale as an air marshal. Hale gives excellent comic relief to some of the heavier emotions in the Movie. Then you have Jason Lee who always nails it with this trademark “Alvin!!!!” to perfection. It never gets old. In fact, it’s tough to imagine another actor in the role. Rising Star Bella Thorne is only in the Film for two scenes, but plays the Superstar at the top of her game perfectly, a refreshing break from some of her “mean girl”-type roles of late. And of course Justin Long as Alvin, Matthew Gray Gubler as Simon, and Jesse McCartney as Theodore each disappear into their characters, bringing an incredible energy as a Trio.
Unlike the other Films in this Franchise, The Road Chip taps into human emotions and feel life situations. That’s why it’s not only the best out of the four Films, but the one that’s a must-see as a fun choice for the Family this Holiday!
20th Century Fox release THE ROAD CHIP Friday, December 18, 2015.
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