This movie was on a list for best animated films from the 80's so I hunted down a copy and gave it a watch. Meh. The plot isn't anything special. A few international criminals trick the Chipmunks and their female counterparts into smuggling diamonds all over the world as part of an 'Around the world in 80 days' hot air balloon race. Whatever, we are talking about the animation and it is remarkably good until about a little more than halfway into the film where it becomes noticeably generic. I'm guessing they started running out of time and pulled a rush job on the second half of the film. Plus they threw in a penguin side story involving the girls just to balance out the Witch Doctor hammer-on with the guys. And all the Chipmunks sound the same, regardless of gender. But whatever, this is a kids film so you can not be too hard in it. But I just wish the animation was consistent throughout the whole film.
... View MoreAt 18, I love this movie, I grew up with this and the show Alvin and the Chipmunks and love them both to death. I have always loved those lovable chipmunks, but this movie has them at their cutest and most endearing.The story is simple, but it was better like that. The film's simplicity really added to its charm, and the story worked really well with some great ideas. As for the script, one of the film's most delightful assets. The film is really well written, all the jokes work and there are many touching and adventurous moments too.The animation is also very well done, it isn't direct to video quality thankfully, it is bright, colourful and lively. All the characters move with consummate ease and the backgrounds are audacious. The music is absolutely delightful, I was shocked at how good it was. The incidental music was absolutely beautiful and rousing particularly the main theme, but the songs "Diamond Dolls", "My Mother", "Girls of Rock 'n' Roll", "Wooly Bully", "I like you very much" and "Off to See the World" are amazing, especially "My Mother" which was really poignant.The characters are really likable and engaging. Alvin, Theodore and Simon have wonderful personalities, while Elenore, Brittany and Jeanette are equally as likable. David is caring and a perfect father figure, the baby penguin is adorable(sorry I have a thing for penguins) while Miss Miller is a fun supporting character. I was most surprised by the villains Klaus and Claudia, they weren't pantomime, they were very convincing, threatening and fun with a good motive, and their witty banter was most inspiring and amusing. And to top it all, the voice acting was top-notch.Overall, a delightful adventure that I have cherished since childhood. If you haven't seen it already, and decide to give it a chance, I think you will love it. 10/10 Bethany Cox
... View MoreLike many other reviewers of this film, I am an 80s child. At 21 now, I am still captivated by this extraordinary film. You see animated movies nowadays, and with some exceptions, are usually lacking substance, and clean fun. The Chipmunk Adventure is just plain fun. I, personally, found the chipmunk show boring when I was younger, and I don't remember how I ended up watching this movie. But I am really glad that I did. Not only is it great to keep and watch to remind you of childhood days past, but it is also a great film to keep in your family, and run through generations. I am keeping mine for me, and when my son gets old enough, we can enjoy it together. An adult who has not seen the movie before might find it boring, but if he/she does, then they are too warped by todays conception of what a 'good' animated flick is. There are no REAL celebrity voices, no fancy computer animated effects, just good animation, kick-ass songs, and a really solid, enjoyable storyline. The characters are impossible to forget, and the famous 'Boys/Girls of Rock 'n' Roll' seen has stuck with me for years. I love this movie, and I honestly can't think of why anyone would walk away from this movie disappointed. I give it a perfect score, because it is perfect for what it is.
... View MoreIts been over 9 years and I still remember one musical number where the Chipette's and Chipmunks both have sing to each other in a battle. I cant remember the song, but do I remember the place and how Eleanor and Jeanette had to hold on to Brittany before she fell out of the balloon and the same with Theodore and Simon to Alvin...man that was such a good movie. To think I saw it when I was 5 or 6 and I still remember it. I couldn't remember the whole plot, but I remember Alvin signing them all up to race around the world in balloons.A great movie for a child and a child at heart. I would even be willing to see it again. And I can assure you that I would still love it. I think I'm gonna go rent it. Just remember: Its a good thing to hold on to your childish roots and enjoy it from time to time.
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