"ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS"
Starring Jason Lee, Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney
Released: Dec. 14, 2007

WATCH THE TRAILER

I gave it four stars for cuteness, fun, and overall enjoyment. One star was taken out due to the clichéd plot line and certain squeamish scenes.

WATCH OUT! Alvin and the Chipmunks are back! Fur, toys, and waffles all fly high in the latest film adaptation of this hit classic series.

Enter the home of Dave Seville, failing songwriter and hopelessly clumsy romantic. Add three talking, hyperactive chipmunks, and Dave’s life is bound to turn upside down and inside out.

Alvin and the Chipmunks were originally created in 1958 by Ross Bagdasarian Sr. as a novelty musical group. They became so popular that several cartoon series, numerous albums, and multiple movies were created over the years.

In this live-action/CGI version, we meet Alvin, Simon, and Theodore in a cold, miserable forest hoarding nuts to get themselves through the winter.

Alvin (voice of Justin Long) is the leader of their little troop; Simon (voice of Matthew Gray Gubler) is the smart guy; and Theodore (voice of Jesse McCartney) is the cute, lovable one.

Then, just when they think things can’t get any worse, they do. Their world crashes down around them, quite literally.

Through a series of unusual events, the three find a home with Dave the songwriter (Jason Lee). In exchange for meals, a cozy place to stay, and control of the TV, they sing the songs that Dave composes.

During their downtime, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore have the time of their lives at Dave’s expense. Accustomed to doing whatever they want and stockpiling food everywhere, the Chipmunks must adapt to living in the modern human world. In turn, Dave steps into the role of fatherly figure and has to clean up after their antics.

Despite all the mishaps, Dave and the Chipmunks all live together as one happy family — at least, until the Chipmunks’ sensational singing talents become all the rage. This launches all four into the glamorous, yet cruel, world of superstardom and capitalism.

This movie is geared primarily toward kids, but an older audience can also enjoy it.

I thought that the film's arc — moving from big problem to happily-ever-after ending — was pretty hackneyed. Although it may be highly appreciated by younger siblings, I was not as impressed by the cookie-cutter formula.

However, the charming, naïve, and curious Chipmunks quickly captured my attention. The individual personalities of each character were well portrayed — it was easy to tell who was who even if the Chipmunks were wearing the same clothing and seemed to be balls of furry energy most of the time.

I especially enjoyed watching the Chipmunks pull pranks and finding innovative ways of doing things, such as cleaning and wrecking the house. But as time passes, Dave, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore bond together and learn to live with one another. From the beginning to the end, this growth drew me into the story and evoked many emotions, from embarrassment to delight.

Technically, I was quite amazed by the quality of the animation of the Chipmunks. Every detail, from textures to contours, was done realistically, unlike in some other animated films. It really made the characters come alive and connected better with the audience, seeing a three-dimensional character instead of just a flat cartoon.

In addition, their high-pitched voices and incredible dance moves won over my sympathies. I also liked their energetic pop songs, especially “Witch Doctor.” Though the original songs were written and recorded years ago, these updated editions are in step with today’s pop culture.

Although “Alvin and the Chipmunks” is a bit cheesy and the plot clichéd, this movie was enthralling until the end. I recommend this movie if you want to watch a cute, energetic film with younger siblings.

“Alvin and the Chipmunks” is currently playing at the GKC Beverly 18, 910 Meijers Drive, Champaign, and Goodrich Savoy 16, 232 W. Burwash, Savoy.

“ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS” AT A GLANCE

• Starring: Jason Lee, Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Jesse McCartney
• Directed by: Tim Hill
• Written by: Jon Vitti (screenplay & story), Will McRobb (screenplay), Chris Viscardi (screenplay), Ross Bagdasarian (characters Alvin and the Chipmunks)
• Genre: Comedy, Family
• Rated: PG for some mild rude humor
• Runtime: 92 min.
• Release date: Dec. 14, 2007
• Summary: Alvin and the Chipmunks return as a live-action/CGI movie with a contemporary comic sensibility. Songwriter Dave Seville transforms singing chipmunks Alvin, Simon, and Theodore into pop sensations — while the out-of-control trio lays waste to Dave's home, wreaks havoc with his career, and turns Dave's once-orderly life upside-down.
• External sites: IMDb entry, Official site