As an adult the idea of going to see an animated film mixed with live action starring the Easter Bunny and a bunch of yellow chicks was pretty low down on my to do list. But after seeing Universal Studios’ Hop I’m ready to jump on the bandwagon and tell you, you must see this film. Hop is terrific. With a smart script, witty dialogue, charming performances and a Willy Wonka-esque atmosphere, Hop is going to become a perennial Easter favorite.
Beginning on Easter Island, E.B. voiced by Russell Brand is poised to inherit the title of Easter Bunny succeeding his father played by Hugh Laurie. But E.B. has other plans. His dream is to be a drummer so he runs away and heads for Hollywood. Here he is destined to cross paths with Fred O’Hare (James Marsden) who is being pressured by his father (Gary Cole) to live up to his expectations. After a rocky start, Fred agrees to help E.B. and these two kindred spirits learn a lesson in responsibility.
Director Tim Hill has done a wonderful job guiding the delicate balance between the animation and live action sequences. With James Marsden’s commitment to the process you believe the relationship between these two. Russell Brand’s voice work is equally important and when you add in the rest of the cast, you have a truly delightful film.
Every good film needs a good villain and in Hop we have Carlos, the Easter Bunny’s second in command. Tired of being number two, Carlos, voiced by Hank Azaria, wants to be number one. When E.B. runs away he plots to take his place, if not by persuasion, then by force. Imagine a fat diabolical chick with hundreds of chick minions and you’ll get the idea. This film is funny and refreshingly original.
Rounding out the cast of Hop is Kaley Cuoco as Fred’s sister, Elizabeth Perkins as Fred’s mom and Tiffany Espersen as Fred’s adopted little sister. The entire cast is rising to the occasion on this one and even David Hasselhoff puts in a wonderful performance satirizing himself. But the real star here is James Marsden. His reactions and connection to the animated E.B. make the entire film. Like his role in Enchanted his innocence allows you to follow him down this rabbit hole. We believe because he does. And I believe that James is a treasure.
Rating: Must See You must hop on down and see it
About Me
- Melanie Wilson
- My Reviewer's Philosophy: I believe that every film has its audience. One man’s Citizen Kane is another man’s Texas Chain Saw Massacre. My purpose is to help you spend your entertainment dollars wisely. A bad review never kept me from going to a film I wanted to see, but a good review will sometimes get me to a film I never considered. As a movie lover I want you to go to the movies. When more people go to the movies, the more movies get made. But, I also believe that if you enjoy the films you see, you naturally will be inclined to go more often. So join me in supporting our film industry by going to a movie today. Hopefully I can steer you towards a good one. See you at the movies. Melanie Wilson
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