Pixel perfect: Monster v. Aliens marks DreamWorks’ 12th computer-animated film
DreamWorks was founded as the super-group of movie studios. After former Disney CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg left the mouse behind, he called up his buddies Steven Spielberg and record executive David Geffen to do things their way (with Microsoft’s money). During their 10-year history they have produced a slew of famous movies, ranging from Academy Award winners such as ‘Gladiator’ and ‘American Beauty’ to Hollywood blockbusters such as ‘Transformers.’ Their CGI (computer-generated images) feature films have been equally well-received, setting box-office records for animated movies. This weekend, the company is releasing its latest film, ‘Monsters v. Aliens,’ starring the voices of Reese Witherspoon and Rainn Wilson. Here are some of DreamWorks’ other computer-generated hits.
Antz – With a cast of stars like Woody Allen and Sylvester Stallone and a plotline involving plenty of gratuitous insect violence, ‘Antz’ is perhaps one of DreamWorks’ most random – and most ridiculous – animated films. Released in 1998, ‘Antz’ tells the story of Z, a plucky, individualistic ant living in the throes of anthill conformity. After a war, a love affair, and several instances of interrogation and torture – yeah, this one’s a little heavy for the kids – Z predictably becomes a hero.Voices of: Woody Allen, Gene Hackman, Sylvester Stallone
Shrek (series) – One of DreamWorks’ top films, this already three-part series is looking at possibly making two more sequels. ‘Shrek’ follows the adventures of Shrek, a crude ogre, on his journey to save Princess Fiona, who ends up marrying Shrek and starting a family. The innovative film twists classic fairy tales with double-sided jokes that people of all ages can enjoy.Voices of: Mike Meyers, Eddie Griffin, Cameron Diaz
Madagascar (series) – Who knew that animals singing ‘I Like to Move it’ at the end of a film could be so funny? Everyone. ‘Madagascar’ tells the tale of groomed zoo animals roughing it in the wilderness after they escape. The premise of the movie is touching and it capitalizes on all the imaginative thoughts kids have about animals when they visit the zoo, but the ending sequence (while funny) is pretty random. Voices of: Chris Rock, Ben Stiller, Jada Pinkett-Smith
Flushed Away – From the makers of ‘Wallace and Grommit,’ ‘Flushed Away’ has a quirky plot: A rat gets flushed down the toilet in his rich home and ends up in London’s sewers. The riches-to-rags tale was a hit with children and the British. Voices of: Hugh Jackman, Kate Winslet, Ian McKellen
Kung Fu Panda – Jack Black makes an unlikely kung fu hero, which makes this movie all the more interesting. Paying homage to classic martial arts movies, ‘Kung Fu Panda’ sends the titular overweight panda Po on a journey to defeat the vicious tiger Tai Lung and gain the respect of his masters. The jokes are few and far between, but the beautiful visuals and breathlessly exciting action make up for it.Voices of: Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Jackie Chan
Published on April 1, 2009 at 12:00 pm