What continues to feel like an animated U.N. PSA, the ever so cute Madagascar journey exits one continent (Africa), crash-landing us on another (Europe). With snarky antics and scenarios, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted maintains its unique style of animated fun, however, this time around adding more humor, vibe and color. Alex the Lion (Ben Stiller), Marty the Zebra (Chris Rock), Gloria the Hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith), and Melman the Giraffe (David Schwimmer) are still scraping, fighting and reinventing ways to get home to their beloved NYC. Latching on to them are the usual, questionable, funny-buddies with King Julien (Sacha Baron Cohen), Maurice (Cedric the Entertainer) and the hilarious
penguin gang. Their journey takes them through Europe where they find the perfect cover: a traveling circus, which they rehash – Madagascar style. Without question it doesn’t come at an easy price as jumping from one place to another, attracts unwanted attention, leading to a chase and possible capture – mainly Alex’s. Psyched by the idea of such a prized-capturing-possession, Europe’s best and flawless animal hunter, Captain Chantel DuBois (Francis McDormond) is contracted to take the mission. Accepting it, she declares a “game on” approach by any means necessary. From its opening scene, to its final, Europe’s Most Wanted has to be one of the best animated films this year. As it embarks on challenges and creative approach within their core, the script provides a hip and jovial feeling with a bit of maturity during moments calling for it. The balance between them gives off enough for children and adults to simultaneously enjoy it. Quickly, yet nicely paced, with what seemed to be an arc of achievements as
they come full-circle, the crazy antics, motion and music behind scenes are well matched. Adding to the fun are new characters which include an Italian sea lion named Stefano (Martin Short), a gorgeous Italian jaguar named Gia (Jessica Chastain) and the trio’s leader, a bitter tiger named Vitale (Bryan Cranston). There wasn’t anything before end-credits determining a fourth (4th), but I’m pretty sure – like the first two (2) – with what will be a successful release (June 8), DreamWorks won’t have an issue mustering up another one. Fun summer flick to watch – recommend it! __________________Grade: A / Genre: Animation, Action/Adventure, Comedy and Sequel / Rated: PG / Run Time: 95 Minutes Starring: Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Jada Pinkett Smith, David Schwimmer, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric The Entertainer Director(s): Eric Darnell, Conrad Vernon, Tom McGrath, © 2012 Starpulse.com, Photo Credits: Paramount Pictures , Source: Starpulse.com
