The Angry Birds Movie (2016) Review

Written by J. Johnson

Starring:  Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Kate McKinnon, Sean Penn, Tony Hale, Keegan-Michael Key, Bill Hader and Peter Dinklage | Runtime: 97 Minutes | Rated: PG (Comedy)

As smartphones and apps begin to push forward in the gaming world it’s now a weekend removed that world’s first film based on smartphone game has arrived. Angry Birds has become a phenomenon that virtually everyone has played. Why during its high point, there wasn’t a screen being used with the slight flick of the finger launching birds into the enemy swine. In 2009, the release of this app became a sensation, in 2012 it sold 12 million copies, but in 2016, it’s now a movie.

Leave it to Hollywood to take a simple launch and blow up for victory game by turning it into a story plot movie with dialogue and climax. There’s definitely enough valid thematic material worth telling for a lesson or two to take home and discuss.

Being the outcast from his village and after a rage-filled birthday party incident, Red (voiced by Jason Sudeikis) is sentenced to serve some hard time in anger management. Yes, Angry Birds have to take a few classes to control that anger too. In that anger management class so-to-speak, Red’s new teacher doesn’t get along too well with him and fellow angry birds Terence (growls & grunts Sean Penn), Bomb (Danny McBride), and Chuck (Josh Gad) with their shenanigans. However, once a ship of pigs led by the devious one (voiced by Bill Hader) it puts the outast to battle with what he believes in as he’s the only one to see through the deceptive pigs.

What this movie does for many others (i.e. Frozen) it resonates with the kid demographic. Thankfully ‘The Angry Birds Movie‘ also keeps its pop culture references few and far between building off the story placed before them. Although brief for some it does try to stay upbeat for kids. Even presented in standard-issued 3D, the colors in this film jump out at you. Especially in the third act, which is full of mayhem and destruction, mirroring what made the game such a phenomenon.

The Angry Birds Movie, has a mixed bag of fun and unpleasant moments that can be enjoyed by an audience of all ages. Even those who were sick of the mobile game may appreciate the concept for which this movie attempts to do. With a solid cast from all walks of comedy the film gives off an entertaining story that doesn’t rely on cliche gags ad generic punchlines. Whether you see it in theaters or on Blu-ray you will be enjoy this movie.

The Angry Birds Movie is now playing in theaters!