Saturday, June 15, 2013

Kids Movie Review - Escape From Planet Earth

It's always interesting (and a bit hit and miss) to check out animated movies made by an alternate studio.  Escape From Planet Earth is a Canadian effort and while it falls short of a Disney/Pixar classic it gets a hearty not bad.

Escape From Planet Earth sees brothers Scorch (Brendan Fraser) and Gary (Rob Corddry) Supernova as a rescue team from the planet Baab.  Scorch is the glory seeking (yet slightly inept) hero type while Gary runs support from mission control and, predictably, is all about taking care and staying out of harm's way.  When Scorch is sent on a rescue mission to "The Dark Planet" (Earth) and gets captured Gary steps up and sets out to rescue his brother.

From the outset this movie is enjoyable.  It's primarily slapstick humour works well and gives plenty of laughs.  The story is suitably outlandish and ridiculous and there is plenty of action to stop the younger kids from getting bored.  There are a few aspects thrown in that seem a bit mature for the level the movie seems to be pitched at, but nothing which should put parents off the movie.

Performances are fairly stereotypical, but workable, throughout the movie.  There are a couple of surprises along the way but most of the main plot turning points are well telegraphed.

But perhaps I should check with a specialist before commenting further:

J (9): "I'd tell my friends to watch it cos it's a bit funny"

Hmm, glowing praise indeed.

In summary, Escape From Planet Earth is harmless and enjoyable.  It certainly won't be a lasting classic but it is certainly good enough for a spare afternoon if nothing better presents itself.

In a word - SPAAAAACE


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