Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip is classic chipmunks with a bit of heart. Sure, it's sappy and somewhat unoriginal, but it has its moments. It’s certainly not for adult viewing alone, but it’s definitely a good choice for a movie with the kids this weekend!
How does any Chipmunks episode, or movie start? With Alvin (Justin Long) doing something to pull everyone else into trouble and adventure. This time Alvin thinks Dave (Jason Lee) is going to propose to his new girlfriend (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) after seeing Dave put a ring in his bag before leaving for Miami on business. Of course, Simon (Matthew Gray Gubler) and Theodore (Jesse McCartney) are convinced they have to help Alvin stop Dave from proposing, especially since the marriage would mean that they would be step brothers with Miles (Josh Green).
Miles is a bully, and he bullies the chipmunks behind Dave and his mother’s back. Since Miles grew up with out a father, he has a chip (no pun intended) on his shoulder and feels that he doesn’t need one in the form of Dave. With a mutual desire, the chipmunks and Miles come together long enough to take a road trip to Miami to thwart the proposal.
This is one of those children’s films that have the adults acting like children and children like adults. If you’re like me, and watch the tv show with your kids you’re quite accustomed to it. However, with an addition like Tony Hale (Arrested Development) playing Agent Suggs, the air marshal hot on the trail to get the chipmunks after an incident in the sky grounds them, that makes this imaginary world where chipmunks talk quite fun. With Hale, you get a genuine man-child performance that is pretty hilarious. Hale brings impressive physical comic relief to the film, making it fun for adults who may have enjoyed him as Buster in Arrested Development.
“Road Chip” certainly delivers on toe-tapping songs at every stop along the way. Whether in the French Quarters of New Orleans or a party in Miami, the chipmunks know how to have a good time. Your kids will certainly have fun and if you don’t go in expecting much, you just might too!
Rating: C