How many films can boast entertaining a whole theater full of kids hopped up on sugar? Over the Hedge is one of those films. A great animation for all of the family, funny enough to keep the adults and the older kids entertained and bright colorful evolved characters to keep the little kids happy. Over the Hedge is a story that shows society’s relationship with over indulgence and material items and the value of family. Showing kids right from wrong that’s not too preachy, but more entertaining is exactly what DreamWorks accomplished.
Over the Hedge
3 & 1/2 Stars
Quirky colorful characters and perfectly chosen voice talents, Over the Hedge is guaranteed to please the whole family. Plenty of laughs and feel good moments, not over done at all. About time we get a year where there might be a little competition for the Best Animation Oscar category. Over the Hedge is a simple yet solid story with well drawn out animated characters that teaches kids a lesson about life and gluttony.
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RJ (Bruce Willis), a greedy mischievous raccoon, gets himself in a bit of bear trouble. He tries to sneak away with Vincent’s (Nick Nolte) hibernation stash and gets busted, big time. Vincent threatens to eat RJ unless he replaces all of his stash, including the little red wagon and blue cooler within a week.
RJ stumbles across a group of woodland misfits who have formed a family of their own and weasels them into helping him replace Spike’s goodies. He convinces them to jump the hedge and enter into the world of suburbia, making them believe that they can set themselves up for next winter’s hibernation in no time.
Verne (Garry Shandling), the self proclaimed papa turtle, warns the crew that RJ is up to no good, but all the treats on the other side of the hedge is all too tempting for the little ones.
As they begin to scavage for food the suburbanites start to get a little put out that animals are invading their homes, trashcans and yards. They call in a professional, if you will, The Verminator (Thomas Haden Church), to rid themselves of such vermin. But Verne gets smart to this and tries to return all of stolen goods, trying to make nice with the humans.
Hammy (Steve Carell) the crazy A.D.D. hyperactive squirrel, Stella (Wanda Sykes) stinky bossy skunk, Ozzie (William Shatner) a over dramatic acting possum and all the rest of the family gets upset with Verne and favors RJ and his tactics. All the food is lost and they bond together to gather the stash all over again. RJ shows his true colors and leaves them high and dry, busted by The Verminator and caged.
RJ, realizing no matter what happens to him, that family is the only important thing. And the crew that now set in cages headed towards a quick end is the only family he has known and needs his help. Leaving Vincent high and dry, RJ crashes the wagon of food into The Verminator’s vehicle and saves them all. Everybody lives happily ever after.
“Over the Hedge” is based on a popular comic strip that translates beautifully to the big screen. The film provides us with an inside reality check to society’s over gluttony and lack of ability to share our space with the environment. Other lessons learned from the importance of family, don’t mistreat your friends and always be honest it pays in the end. Not too preachy and very funny, Over the Hedge is perfect for kids of all ages. There is a character for everybody to love and a simple story that the audience will easily relate to. Don’t just take my word for it, go see for yourself.
