Last night we took the kids to see “The Tale of Despereaux“. I was actually really looking forward to go see this. Now let me start by saying that my review of this film should be taken with a grain of salt. If this turns out to be the kids movie of the year or something, I would feel really bad. This is just one Dad’s opinion of the movie. If it means anything, the other 4 people that I watched it with (namely my wife and kids) thought it was good.
Speaking of good, the cast, effects and at times, story line were really good. The computer animation made it seem so real. It is an all-star cast of voices as well. Also, if you have ever read the book “Wild at Heart” (a personal favorite), it had it all. The beauty to rescue, the adventure to live and the battle to fight. It was all there. There were even some great lines that I wish I would have twittered so I could remember them later. That was the good.
Maybe it was my fault. I guess I never read the book so I didn’t know what we were getting into. I also thought, based on the preview, that it was the story of this cute little mouse with big ears that my girls would love. I also should have realized that a movie about rats and mice will probably include some parts in a sewer. Ratatouille this was not. It was dark, dreary and a few times downright weird (the dude in the kitchen made of fruits and vegetables for example). If it’s any indication, by the end of the movie, my 5 year old daughter was sitting on my lap and my 3 year old daughter was sitting on my wifes.
The movie ended well. The story of forgiveness and saying you’re sorry should not be overlooked. Great message. I just got caught in the middle of the movie. Honestly, the entire time I couldn’t help but think of the classic line from “Men on Film“….”hated it”. Sorry. I really did want to like this movie.
