THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER (2015)

Synopsis: “SpongeBob SquarePants, the world’s favorite sea dwelling invertebrate, comes ashore to our world for his most super-heroic adventure yet. When a diabolical pirate above the sea steals the secret formula for Krabby Patties (the main form of sustenance) it throws all of Bikini Bottom into a terrible apocalypse.”

Review: “A colorful burst of manic fun. Under the expert guidance of TV series writer/director Paul Tibbitt, sophisticated adult gags jostle with inspired childish silliness, each element dovetailing for increased inventiveness.”

Movieko: Wanna see a giant pickle canon? Wanna see SpongeBob in is tighty-whities? Wanna see Antonio Banderas play a pirate who plays cards with seagulls? (“Anybody got a seven? Go fish.”) You’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Bikini Bottom.
While SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, Plankton, Hulk, Sandy and Mr. Krabs are under the sea, the film is traditional animation. But when they hit dry land a CGI/live-action hybrid takes over. Eventually they all end up morphing into Avengers-esque versions of themselves. It’s SpongeBob and friends like you’ve never seen them before!
PS: There were a lot of real bikini bottom’s in the live action. (These “kids” films always have something for Dads.)

MR. PEABODY and SHERMAN (2014)

Synopsis: “Mr. Peabody is a business titan, inventor, scientist, gourmand, two-time Olympic medalist and genius who also happens to be a dog. Using his most ingenious invention, the WABAC machine, Mr. Peabody and his adopted boy Sherman hurtle back in time to experience world-changing events first-hand and interact with some of the greatest characters of all time.”

Review: “I’ll be doggoned if this film isn’t a refreshing ‘paws’ from the run-of-the-mill movies that often serve as family entertainment. A flawless, inventive, fascinating and endearing remake that maintains the eccentric tone and wit of the original animated shorts.”

Movieko: “Peabody and Sherman jump in the WABAC machine and end up in the future. In a 3D CGI cartoon! Will they finally answer the age old question, “If a boy can have a dog why can’t a dog have a boy?” The movie has the same ‘feel’ I remember as a kid. Thanks to Tiffany Ward, daughter of Jay Ward one of the creators of the original series, who made sure the film stayed true to the integrity of the characters even down to the voice quality of Mr. Peabody (Ty Burrell) and Sherman (Max Charles).
Peabody and Sherman dance in Egypt with King Tut. They end up in Ancient Greece with a Trojan horse. (Believe it or not, this Trojan has absolutely nothing to do with all the condom commercials you see kids!) Then it’s off to da Vinci’s workshop for a quick spin (out) on his flying machine. But when the space time continuum gets a tear, that’s when the real fun begins! Plus the “Peabody Puns” are so punny. (No pun in ten did.) Personally, I set the WABAC Machine for my childhood. I really enjoyed the trip.

RANGO (2011)

Synopsis: “Rango (Johnny Depp) is a chameleon on the lookout for action and adventure. He winds up in an old western town called Dirt. What this town needs the most is water, but they also need a hero and a sheriff. The thirsty Rango instantly takes on the role of both.”

Review: “Rango is a smart, giddily creative burst of beautifully animated entertainment, and Johnny Depp gives a colorful vocal performance.”

Movieko: It’s a Spaghetti Western for kids! Rango is a chameleon who’s just trying to blend in. But, “Ain’t no one gonna tango with the Rango.” It could have been called “The Good the Bad and the Chameleon.” There’s a Mexican Mariachi Band, of owls, who-who keep popping up throughout the film. (I won’t say, ‘What a hoot!” But I want to.) And that dang ol’ Rango is a real fandango! Yee-ha-ha-ha-ha-haaaaa!!!!!
PS: It won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film.