Monsters vs. Aliens(2009)- User Reviews

I was finally able to see "Monsters vs. Aliens" in all of its 3D glory - and I have to say that I was very impressed. Going into the film, the main thing that I took into consideration is that it was going to either be a fun time, full of amazing 3D effects the likes which have never been seen - or it was going to be a boring kids movie full of distracting 3D effects. The movie was anything but the latter.

"Monsters vs. Aliens" starts out with a flight through the solar system in brilliant 3D, immuring the viewer into the film right away. The effects were not distracting at all; rather they gave a feel that we were really along for the ride. We then switch to a monitoring station, where one of the security guards is relaxing, while playing with one of those paddles with the bouncy ball attached via string. Yes - I know what you are thinking - did it bounce out at the audience in 3D? The answer is "yes." But it was really cool, and it allowed me to realize what film makers can actually do with 3D. That was the last time that I can really remember one of those effects; the rest of the 3D effects were there more to represent the "depth" of the characters and scenery.

We are introduced to our main character, Susan (voiced by Reeese Witherspoon) on her wedding day - set to marry her obnoxious weatherman fiance Derek (Paul Rudd). Everything is looking good - that is until a giant meteor falls from the sky and crushes Susan just moments before she is to walk down the isle. Fortunately, she was able to get up with only minor scratches and a little dirt on her dress. But as the bride proceeds down the isle, something a bit unusual happens; Susan grows to giant "Godzilla-esque" proportions, and chases everyone away. As she picks up Derek, it looks like something out of King Kong, as Susan is tranquillized by the military.

Susan wakes up in a secret military base, where we meet the rest of the main characters of the film - a collection of some of the biggest names in Hollywood right now. Her roommates include B.O.B. (voiced by the hilarious Seth Rogen), Dr. Cockroach (Hugh Laurie), The Missing Link (Will Arnett), and Insectosaurus (I giant insect that is about 50 times larger than the gigantic Susan). All of these "monsters" have been captured by General W.R. Monger (Kiefer Sutherland), a character reminiscent of Sgt. Hartman from "Full Metal Jacket," but less insulting and obnoxious.

W.R. Monger's plans to keep these monsters locked up for life, but those plans suddenly change when a monstrous alien robot comes to earth to collect the power from the meteorite that hit Susan. The robot was sent to earth by the recently awakened "Gallaxhar" voiced by Rainn Wilson (who plays Dwight on "The Office"). The character is egotistical and eccentric, and is very entertaining. This is where we are introduced to the concept of "Monsters vs. Aliens" and the movie takes off from there.

The movie was very entertaining, and kept me interested throughout the entire 90 plus minutes. This is something that not all animated features can do. I feel that the 3D really helped make the story more interesting, and provided the support to keep the audience's attention even during down times. I was very impressed with the animation, and think that the creators did a great job implementing the three-dimensional depth and movement. I feel that to get the most out of your movie tickets, you NEED to see the 3D version. It really makes it a great experience for the entire family. All of the kids around the theater were having a great time, and seemed to generally enjoy the film.

I give the film 7.5 out of 10.

Kevin
ReviewSTL