Hop misses a beat
The new animated movie, Hop, directed by Tim Hill, adds an interesting twist to a traditional holiday film. Hill is familiar in the field of animation having directed previous movies including Alvin and the Chipmunks and Garfield. He has further been involved in the animation having developed and written stories for animated shows such as Rocko's Modern Life and Spongebob Squarepants. Hop is produced by Despicable Me producer Christopher Meledandri, and was written by Ken Daurio, Cinco Paul, and Brian Lynch. It was produced through Universal Pictures and earned $11.4 million opening day on it's opening day making it the number one film for the weekend.
This animation/comedy is focused on the life of a teen rabbit named E.B., voiced by actor Russell Brand, who has a special destiny: to be crowned Easter Bunny and take on the responsibility of delivering candy around the world. The plot comes in play when he runs away to Hollywood in hopes of becoming a professional drummer because he refuses to carry on the Easter Bunny tradition in his family.
As he searches for a place to stay, E.B. gets hit by a car. This is where Fred, a lazy out of work goof, played by actor James Marsden, meets E.B and together they learn a valuable life lesson just in time to save Easter.
Brand, known for his vibrant personality brought the bunny's character to life. Although many of us have never pictured the Easter Bunny having an English accent, the resemblance to Brand's rock star personality helped shape the character. Renowned voice actor Hank Azaria, well known for voicing multiple characters in The Simpsons, lent his voice to the oversized talking chick Carlos; E.B's father's right hand man.
Although the animated movie was a major success on opening day, there were a couple of drawbacks to the script. The main issue was that the other human characters in the movie are completely nonchalant about the talking bunny. Aside from Fred, who thought he was going crazy, other actors did not flinch even once as E.B. started speaking.
Other issues include a lack of action and problems that were solved all too easily. The ending was not up to par, leaving a mixed message to young audience members.
However, the lessons learned throughout the movie, like how to be self-less and responsible, are timeless and valuable.
As far as the acting goes Marsden plays a great goof. His reaction to the whole situation is believable making the film enjoyable. The relationship between him and E.B. is awkward at best, but considering the time restraints of the movie it is somewhat amusing, and a little touching as well as they learn to cope with each other.
The star of the movie though would have to be Carlos. His dark look and maniacal personality makes for great laughs. His secretive evil demeanor keeps the audience waiting to find out what he's cooking up behind the scenes as he unleashes a great master plan to take over Easter.
Hopis a great children's movie, but adults might have a problem sitting through its entirety.