It's true that this, on account of budgetary constraints(it's independent... I'll let you process that fact) doesn't have the computer power behind it that the other new 3D flicks do, but they turn the potential weakness into a strength by instead looking completely different than its competition and, what a concept, *to actually focus on the material*, which is solid and hilarious. The characters are not simply there for us to laugh at, rather, they have genuine personality. Jokes and gags are marvelous, and there are ones for all age groups. This walks that balance better than most family films. Humor is a nifty mix between clever, silly, over the top, underplayed, parody, etc. The Rashômon take on the Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale allows for a ton of fun adventure in a way that children have not seen that often, and I can imagine them still following it fine. Design is great, and using animation that comes off like something done years ago(as well as referencing undeniable classics from 2D, along with a ton of pop culture, there's something for everyone) works really well. The acting is spot-on. Warburton is perfect for the Wolf. All parts are well-cast. I even liked Belushi's performance(I'd at this point like to retract any statements I've made about that to friends of the "if I ever say ... just shoot me" variety). You might want to avoid trailers and ads, lest punchlines and surprises be ruined. This is well-paced, and not boring. The plot is interesting and well-developed. This is genuinely exciting, and has pretty cool action. The editing is sharp, and the cinematography excellent. This has well-done audio all the way, the score and songs are surprisingly good, spanning several styles of music. There is hardly anything in this that can be called offensive, and I agree with the PG rating. The DVD comes with an informative and entertaining commentary track with both Edwards', the first-time directors, and Tony Leech, who wrote the script along with the brothers, and also a well-done 13-minute featurette. I recommend this to any fan of those who made it. 7/10
Review of Hoodwinked!
