Alvin and the Chipmunks

I vaguely remember "Alvin and the Chipmunks" in cartoon form, growing up in the eighties. To be honest though, I don't really remember it being very good or bad. The only memory I do have is of three talking chipmunks getting into lots of trouble and singing songs in very high pitched voices. That's pretty much all the history you need to know to understand what this film is about. But is it any good?

Songwriter Dave Seville transforms singing chipmunks Alvin, Simon, and Theodore into modern day pop sensations while the out-of-control trio destroy Dave's home, wreak havoc with his career, and turn his once routine life upside down.

Jason Lee's performance of the main (non-animated) character Dave Seville, is a big let down. He seems so wooden and delivers his lines with a lack of enthusiasm that scares. He's not alone though, with much of the cast providing more of the same. The only actor worth mentioning is David Cross who plays the music industry bad guy but that's not saying a lot. The true stars of the show are the chipmunks! After all, the film is called Alvin and the Chipmunks. Alvin, Simon and Theodore are cute enough and animated extremely well but they soon divide the audience into two clear sections. Being a child and being an adult. Most adults will agree that this film isn't very good and somewhat annoying. But young kids will enjoy the short ride, although I can't see it being amongst a kids list of favourite films.  I went to the cinema to watch Alvin and the Chipmunks and since the target audience isn't really intended for adults it was good to see and hear many kids reactions to the film. The cinema was half full and there were only a handful of moments when I heard laughter which sums up the experience.

Like I said, I vaguely remember the cartoon version and very soon I will have vague memories of Alvin and the Chipmunks. Borrow it or wait for it to hit TV.

RR