On its own merits, “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs†is easily the best 3-D film in theaters right now. However, that isn’t saying all that much, especially when you consider how rancid a film “The Final Destination†turned out to be. Nevertheless, with its carefree attitude, colorful cast of characters and imaginative world, this is one meatball that you’ll want the recipe for.
While it’s obviously intended for younger viewers, “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs†has enough spice to sweeten up to any adult. Bill Hader is more than solid as inventor Flint Lockwood, who uses his wit and drive to butter up the audience. Seeing him fail over and over with all these wacky inventions before hitting it big is a fun endeavor that never leaves you feeling sour. By this performance, Hader may have shown Hollywood he’s much more than a funny supporting character actor and someone who can do voice work.
The same thing goes for the foxy Anna Faris, who’s spunky, syrupy and sweet as meteorologist Sam Sparks. Much like Lockwood, she too hasn’t had an easy go of things and watching their cute crush develop is something that both parents and children will enjoy.
James Caan, Mr. T and Bruce Campbell round out the supporting cast and together, making the world seem real enough for children and believe-able enough for adults. Children will love the world that has been created here [especially because it’s in 3-D], one that in spite of its adult themes, such as commercialism, political corruption and conformity, will be light enough for them to see through and comprehend. Because of this, it’s hard not to recommend the film to a parent with youngsters.
For adults, they may even be surprised at times at how much they like the film, as there are several small, twists that give it enough action and suspense to keep them interested. You almost can’t stop looking at the screen while Lockwood and his pals are out to save the world.
And that has nothing to do with the cool 3-D glasses you’ll be wearing while watching it.
Much like Pixar films, directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller have created a solid enough script that despite a few hiccups along the way [the lines of Benjamin Bratt’s character, Manny, are horrible and it usually ends up breaking the flow of the film as they usually lack logic and aren’t funny], manages to blend into a warm, funny and endearing concoction.
While it’s not nearly as solid as anything Pixar has put out over the years, “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs†is still an animated film that is worth its calorie intake. Far from inducing any type of bloating or heartburn afterward, the film is a 3D treat and a feast for the eyes and totally different from anything else currently in theaters.
Leave a Reply