Invest in this hedge - Over the Hedge Reviews

Dreamworks new animated film is funnier than "Madagascar" but not as funny as "Shrek". However, the animation is far superior to both. Taken from the comic strip of the same name, "Hedge" is a cartoon environmental culture clash. Spurred on by the con artist "RJ the Raccoon", a band of cute critters work together to steal human food for themselves (actually for RJ). Lessons are learned (value of family, in particular), villains are defeated and the animals survive for the inevitable sequel. Unlike many other films of this genre, the adult jokes are kept to a minimum and are much more effective for it. The animation really is terrific. The depth and detail is pretty amazing. The Dreamworks animation department continues to impress. All the vocal work led by Bruce Willis, William Shatner, Gary Shandling, Wanda Sykes, and Steve Carell is very well done. One problem for kids comes late in the film. A slow motion sequence will probably have to be explained otherwise, "Hedge" is a treat for the kids and should be enjoyed by parents as well.