Rio

Birds are very nice pets to own, some living as long as their owners. The latest animated family film from 20th Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios (Ice Age I-III) explores the exotic birds of Brazil in “Rio”. While many species of birds can talk there aren’t many with celebrity voices, but on the whole the movie is a fun ride for the whole family.

“Rio” stars Oscar-nominee Jesse Eisenberg (Zombieland, The Social Network) as Blu, a rare blue macaw parrot. Instead of his home being the wild jungle, he lives in the cold northern Minnesota. However, one day a crazy Brazilian bird expert comes to his owner Linda that Blu is the last of a rare breed, and in order to save the species he needs to go to Rio de Janeiro to hook up with a female of his kind. Once there Linda and Blu are both overwhelmed by the culture-shock, but once Blu is primped up to be attractive, he’s put in a room with the beautiful but headstrong Jewel, played by Oscar-nominee Anne Hathaway (The Princess Diaries, Love and Other Drugs). Their relationship is, strained, to say the least. However, in the middle of the night they’re both kidnapped by local gangsters and a psychopathic Cockatoo. Now with the help of some more birdbrains and a huge Carnival through the city, Blu and Jewel have to make it to safety…but there are just two big problems in the way:

1. Blu and Jewel are chained together at the feet and

2. Blu can’t fly!

From the opening song and dance sequence it’s clear that this is a dazzling visual movie. The kaleidoscope of bird plumage dances across the screen, and later at the climax during the city’s Carnival it’s even more impressive. Additionally, the flying sequences over Cristo Redentor are incredible. Joining the eye candy is the great soundtrack including an expected “Mas Que Nada” remix with will.i.am and Jamie Foxx, who also play feathered friends too. Add some more cameo appearances from Jane Lynch, Tracy Morgan (as a drooling bulldog), and George Lopez with excellent 3D RealD animation and this movie almost soars.

On the other hand, as much fun as the cartoon is the plot is kinda flimsy. We can all expect how Blu will save the day (he eventually flies), and there’s a subtle hint of an S&M joke. Also, Rio de Janeiro does have some organized crime but the depiction of cruel gangsters may have some Brazilians squirming. Look for at least two references to “Die Hard”. Content aside, as much as the actors are doing a great job in the sound studio, their characters are nothing more than caricatures. Overall “Rio” may not be that deep, but it’s by no means bad. This is one where you can turn your brain off for 96 minutes and have some innocent G-rated fun.