It should take a glance at a title to guess which Shakespeare play the new animated film Gnomeo and Juliet is a riff on. Available as both a 3-D and flat screen attraction, it’s certain fun for all.
Mr. Capulet and Ms. Montague, who live on two sides of the same house, his painted red, and hers’ painted blue, hate each other. Their garden gnomes, who come to life Toy Story style when they’re not looking, hate each other too.
The Blueberries, from which comes Gnomeo (James MacAvoy), always try to upstage the Redbricks, one of which is Juliet (Emily Blunt). Eventually, the two lovebirds meet, but angst over their chromatic differences. Only if they find a way to stop their families’ pointless feud can they subvert their namesakes’ fates.
Yes, this story’s been told before. “A lot,” says the gnome in the hilarious prologue, “Now we’re going to tell it again. But different.” When he’s yanked off stage before he can finish reciting Romeo and Juliet’s prologue, we know how different it’s going to get. After that, we’ll know how fun it is.
Much of its fun comes from the numerous supporting characters. Ranging from the sprinkler frog Nanette, to the mute Shroom, and the pink flamingo Featherstone, they all provide great comic relief for this story. The best one is the statue of the Bard himself (Patrick Stewart), oblivious to how this interpretation of his story is playing out.
Among other good aspects of this adventure include hidden Shakespeare references, a few Elton John tunes populating the soundtrack, and a monstrously powerful lawnmower (Hulk Hogan) that sets off the climax. They help add up to what should be a fun time for kids and adults alike.
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