The creators of “Alvin and the Chipmunks” surely expected that they would cash in on parents’ desires to introduce their own generation’s tiny musical heroes to their kids. So it’s surprising that there was essentially nothing in the film geared toward the older crowd. “Alvin” is really only suitable for small children, so it’s silly to overanalyze it, but here I go.
Firstly, Jason Lee is normally a very respectable actor. But the expression on his face in every scene practically screams, “Why did I agree to do this?” Or maybe he just never got comfortable talking to imaginary chipmunks. Cameron Richardson, who plays his love interest, was a train wreck of horrendous acting. The script didn’t give her much to work with, admittedly; in one scene she is randomly on her front porch inspecting the leaves of her hanging potted plant. Because that’s what all women do, all the time.
The only person who fully committed and worked it out was David Cross, as the desperately smarmy manager. It was the usual sort of role for him, but as he’s the only actor who actually performed well, I’ll take it. And give this movie two stars instead of one just for him.
As for the “stars” of the film, the chipmunks, they were definitely cute. Despite Alvin being the “awesomest” one, Theodore has the biggest role in the storyline. The animation is top-notch, and their songs are catchy with great harmonies… one hundred per cent computer-generated harmonies. But hey, isn’t that we’re used to in pop music these days? The singing is also as maddeningly high-pitched as you remember, and I pity the parent whose child asks for the soundtrack for Christmas.
The off-screen talent was also inadequate. Conversations were edited badly, and there was a general lack of creativity and effort. The classic Chipmunk gags (”Aaaaaalvinnnnnn!”) are shoved down the audience’s throat over and over again. Continuity with the music was also an issue. In the opening scene, the Chipmunks inexplicably sing “Bad Day” by Daniel Powter, but from then appear to only know the classic songs from the cartoons. It’s only later, when Cross’ character forces them, that they sing “hipper” songs. But then, when Cross states that the Chipmunks play “tomorrow’s music, today,” they immediately perform “Witch Doctor” – which came out in 1959! Lazy, lazy, lazy. Oh, there’s also some sort of washed-out lesson about unconventional families. How original.
“Alvin” is the kind of movie your 5-year-old will love. And the kind of movie that will eagerly take your $40 and give you a migraine in return. Enjoy!
Drew Barrymore and Justin Long are back together – on the big screen, at least.
