The team who crafted the 'Ice Age' films have this time turned their hand to the Dr. Seuss story in which Horton the elephant (Jim Carrey) discovers that there are tiny people living on a spec. Horton takes it upon himself to put the spec in a safe place and save the little Whos of Who-ville. Unfortunately for Horton and the Whos he faces trouble from a domineering kangaroo who claims that Horton is 'encouraging the children to have an imagination'. With a strong supporting voice cast including Seth Rogen and Steve Carell, and cameos from the likes of Amy Poehler, Jonah Hill, Jaime Pressly and Isla Fisher, it's certainly a star-studded event.The vibrant animation creates a perfect blend of CG magic whilst staying true to the book's original illustrations, and though it may not be the best around in a market dominated by Dreamworks and Pixar, it hits all the right notes for a Dr. Seuss adaptation. It's pretty solid throughout and is bound to please the kids with a high laugh count and there's also the odd chuckle to be raised for the older viewer (Will Arnett's Vlad is a particular treat). Although the plot may be slightly contrived there's a moral behind it which is bound to speak to the younger viewer, maybe not as strongly however as in the original story. The ad hoc narration is weak and proves (as with 'The Grinch' and 'The Cat in the Hat') that Dr. Seuss works better on the page than it does on the screen, but regardless, it's twee and fun and a pleasng experience all round.
Verdict: Perfect for the small folk and bearable for anyone older and taller.
Also out on DVD this week is WANTED The review can be accessed on the main page by clicking here.
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