Over the Hedge

This new release DVD is filled with a plethora of actors. In no particular order we have Garry Shandling, Bruce Willis, Steve Carell, Wanda Sykes, William Shatner, Nick Nolte, Thomas Haden Church, Allison Janney, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, and Avril Lavigne. What a mouthful!!

Over the Hedge from DreamWorks is a family film about a conniving raccoon named RJ who befriends simple-minded forest animals. Through their hibernating season, suburbia has taken over their home and RJ is there to teach them the tricks of dealing with humans. Though RJ has a hidden agenda he learns new life lessons from his new family. The story has a great moral both kids and perhaps even for some of their parents.

This DVD was so entertaining that I actually watched it twice in one week just incase I missed anything fun the first time around. The story has perfectly "drawn"characters that will appeal to kids of all ages. Most importantly the cast of characters will have kids entertained long enough to give parents a break. What makes this a such a great family film is that there is also no shortage of family friendly adult humor. I laughed quite a bit which, let’s face it, is always a great thing for the soul. I did get a for sure sign that this is a #1 hit for the kids as I watched this with my God kids and as soon as the movie was over they wanted to watch it again. Parents you know that’s a good sign.

The DVD itself also has some great extras. There is a mini movie that is actually as entertaining as the feature film itself. There are features on the making of the animation as well as games and activities for the kiddies. A good investment with lots of entertainment potential. Summing it all up, Over the Hedge is a good Friday night movie for the whole family to enjoy. Every character is lovable and will make you laugh. The overall look of the film is fresh, clean, and believable. Every child and adult can relate to all the characters and surroundings, which gives this animation a close to home feeling. For many the storyline may be the best part of all, as the story brings the family more into prospective. This film brought back an old story into a new and original form and it clearly works.

Story A+
Acting A+
Visuals A+
Originality A+
Enjoyability A+
Overall Grade A+