Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, "The Fantastic Mr. Fox" is a brilliant stop-motion animated film that has a unique look and feel to it. Under Wes Anderson's direction, it delivers plenty of laughs and maintains its entertaining value. Be warned: This movie isn't really for kids despite being its PG rating.
George Clooney and Meryl Streep voice Mr. and Mrs. Fox, who live an idyllic home life with their son, Ash, and young, visiting nephew Kristopherson. After 12 years, the bucolic existence proves too much for Mr. Fox's wild animal instincts, and he soon slips back into his old ways as a sneaky chicken thief. In doing so, he endangers not only his beloved family, but the entire animal community.
Trapped underground and without enough food to go around, the animals band together to fight evil Farmers Boggis, Bunce and Bean, who are determined to capture the audacious, fantastic Mr. Fox at any cost.
Adults and teens will really get a kick out of the story, and will appreciate the star quality voices of Clooney, Streep and Bill Murray, who plays Badger. Clooney's voice is very convincing, as is Streep's.
I especially liked the banter between Mr. Fox and Badger in certain scenes. The viewer can sympathize with Mr. Fox not wanting to give up who he is as a being, and you may find yourself rooting for his son, who comes into his own as he reaches his own degree of success, as did his father.
I really appreciated the fact that an original idea can be delivered in an entertaining manner without the involvement of Disney or DreamWorks.
Remember -- this movie is not intended for children, despite first impressions.
A good comparison would be "Chicken Run."
3.5 buckets
