Death to Smoochy is one of those films whose assumed plot we've always fantasized about; especially those of us with young children in the home. Barney the Dinosaur (1992-2010), Teletubbies (1997- 2001), Yo-Gabba-Gabba (2007-Present) inspire just as many kids to use their imaginations and jump up and down as they inspire grown- ups to take up Valium. So why not release a movie about a beloved children's character meeting his demise.Well I'm not sure people knew quite what they were getting into with this one but if you can deal with Edward Norton's painful earnestness and Robin William's mania there's actually quite a lot to like here. Atmospherically the tone is dark and caustically funny. Director Danny DeVito creates a cynical media-centric universe in this film where crime and corruption ooze into the folds of children's programming. Smoochy the Rhino (Edward Norton) is a real believer in the power of his message to kids which is at odds with his angry rival Rainbow Randy (Robin Williams). As a result Smoochy naivety was seen by many as unrealistic and even annoying. I agree but a lot of bad things happen to the pink rhino so to me, it washes out.

This is an excellent comedy film which can be enjoyed with your family and friends. Danny DeVito doesn't go overboard with the black comedy elements in the film and keeps it at a level for family viewing.This film stars DeVito along with notable actors Robin Williams and Edward Norton. The film is about "Rainbow Randolph" Smiley (Robin Williams), a happily corrupt children's television host, who is disgraced by an FBI sting for making deals with parents who want their kids on the show. He is replaced by the "squeaky clean" Sheldon Mopes (Edward Norton) and his character, Smoochy the Rhino. Thus a feud starts between the embittered, ruthless Randolph and the pacifist Sheldon. Who will emerge victorious? See the film and find out.Both Robin Williams and Edward Norton put on a show that will leave you in side-splitting laughter. Danny DeVito has a darker role in the film as Burke Bennett who is an agent with connections to Burke and Merv Green the heads of the corrupt charity. Supporting actors Catherine Keener and Jon Stewart also put in good performances. Danny DeVito Films To See: Romancing The Stone, Jewel Of The Nile, The War Of The Roses, Batman Returns, Renaissance Man (DeVito's best and most heartwarming film in my opinion), Twins, Throw Momma From The Train, Ruthless People(very good film). Robin William Films: Mrs. Doubtfire, Jumanji, Hook, The Fisher King, Awakenings, What Dreams May Come, Good Moring Vietnam, Bicentennial Man, Insomnia, One Hour Photo, Jack. Edward Norton Films To See: Red Dragon, Primal Fear, The Incredible Hulk(2008), American History X, The Italian Job, The Painted Veil.

(53%) It's no real mystery why this failed financially. Just look at that DVD cover, doesn't look much like an R rated black comedy featuring criminals and murder now does it? This is very much a mixed bag of dark humour intermixed with kid friendly fluff that does have some quite fun contrast, but the gags aren't as plentiful, or as good, as this really needs to properly satisfy. Robin Williams has a good proportion of the laughs, but he is a bit underused here, while Norton's character is just a bit too goody-goody to be a relatable person. There are some fans of this out there, and I can see why as it does have appeal in its talented cast and quite bizarre sense of humour, but a universal comedy for the masses this ain't.

There are a fair number of negative reviews for 'Death to Smoochy.' Now, if a film has a title like that, it tells me that it's a 'cult film' made for a niche audience. So, I can only assume that mainstream moviegoers didn't think that much of it.If you're a fan of Robin Williams' quirky, light-hearted performances, then you may be disappointed. His role here is one of his darker, more serious ones (think 'One Hour Photo, only more openly psychotic). He plays a disgraced children's TV show presenter who vows - lethal - revenge on his successor - the mild-mannered and good-natured 'Smoochy' (his stage name), played by Edward Norton. Also, it's fair to say that, despite Robin Williams being billed as the 'star,' I was surprised at how much screen time was given to Edward Norton - really he should be billed as the star.There are mob hits, beatings, murder, blackmail and Nazis in this film - hardly the stuff of your average family comedy. Therefore, the humour is pretty black. It's also a satire - showing you the 'dark side' of something so allegedly pure as children's TV.If you like your movies dark, satirical and slightly over the top, then give this one a go. You won't forget the sight of gangsters performing a 'hit' on a giant, cuddly rhino in a hurry.http://thewrongtreemoviereviews.blogspot.co.uk/