Alvin and the Chipmunks
**1/2 out of 5
Having been a true admirer of the cartoon “Alvin and the Chipmunks” I was curious to see how the film version of the TV show would have turned out. By the time I had left the theater I was curious as to why I had thought the movie would be any different from the actual TV show. Oh well here we go. We first meet Alvin, Simon, and Theodore in the forest as they scramble along to store their nuts and acorns. Thanks to a Christmas miracle they are introduced to their “Dad” David Seville, a struggling musician portrayed by an animated Jason Lee. This is where we abbreviate a story in desperate need of abbreviation. Seville needs to find a musical talent to bolster his career, and the Chipmunks need a home. They unite only to disband after fame rears its destructive head. It is simply astonishing the way that the filmmakers cleverly took a story of this magnitude and made a feature length movie out of it. As for the performances of the cast well, what is there to say? Besides Alvin and the Chipmunk's early musical performances, there is very little to look forward to. On a positive note however the soundtrack that accompanies this film is absolutely delightful. Which is why this titanic FKO (For Kids Only) movie seems to stay afloat.
Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
****/5
False Imprisonment. Vengeance. Death. Musical? These elements are meshed together so masterfully in the film “Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” that once you leave the theater you wonder why combining these elements was not thought of earlier. Tim Burton, who instinctively knows that he is perhaps the only filmmaker that could have directed this film, has pulled out all the stops. He efficiently collaborates with Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter to tell the story of an innocent barber named Barker, whose life is ruined by an envious judge. Barker returns to London after years of exile as the murderous demon named Sweeny Todd, who will stop at nothing to have his revenge. His assistant Ms. Lovett, or in this case Bonham Carter, convinces her demonic compatriot that murder could also mean profit. Together they spill blood while literally carving out there place in this world. All in all the film is a brilliant anomaly that combines gore with gusto, music with mayhem, and as we watch events unfold, we wonder how did they do it. The cast, especially Bonham Carter and Depp turn in performances that are bursting at the seams with energy. Sacha Baron Cohen gives a cameo performance that leaves the audience wishing that his role could have been expanded. Finally it is important to note that the film is not for the squeamish. But if you have a strong stomach or need a close shave this film is certainly for you.
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