Jada Pinkett-Smith, Ben Stiller, and Chris Rock are just a few of the stars that have been on a heavy promotion trail for their new kid's animated movie Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, judjing by the pictures I've seen of the 3 of them taken from different countries throughout the world. This is the sequel to the record-setting 2005 animation Madagascar, which releases at cinemas in Mzansi next week.
I've always mentioned that I'm not a big animated movie fan, but I do indulge in the genre every now and then, especially if there is a big blockbuster like Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa bracing our cinemas. This morning was one of those moments when I watched the movie at a press screening. The movie was enjoyable and actually surprised me because of its nature to attract not just children's attention but also engage adults in the heart-warming story, as well as the clever thinking behind portrayal of the characters.
The New York Zoo friends, Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo are back together is this entertaining journey of mystery, laughter, sadness and jealousy. Played by Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, and Jada Pinkett-Smith, respectively, they end up in the wilderness of Africa where they re-unite with their families and have their relationships introspectively tested. Their sense of humility and humanity, helps them conquer whatever hardships are thrown their way, whether it relates to love, friendship or family.
The late Bernie Mac was outstanding, doing the voice of Zuba, Alex's father. Sherri Shepherd (from the talk show The View) also did a sterling job as the mother, though it was very interesting that the parents were both voiced by black actors but the child by a white actor. Another surprising moment was musician Will.I.Am's performance, doing Moto Moto's voice and playing Gloria's love interest. He carried the role very well. On the downside, I noticed some sort of a goof, in terms of consistency. Alex supposedly had the same birth mark (an African map) on his paws as his father, but this mark was absent on some of the scenes.
Overall, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa was enjoyable. I enjoyed the elaborate humour and the way your emotions were evoked in different parts throughout the film. It's also a great story about family, friendships and basically maintaining good relationships in life. The whole family will enjoy this film. I'll definitely be taking my little sister to watch it again during the holidays.
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa opens at cinemas nationwide on the 05th of December 2009.
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