Curious George 3: Back to the Jungle
Curious George 3: Back to the Jungle is a straight-to-DVD animated film released recently by Universal Studios. I don't think I ever saw the first two movies and didn't really have any desire to watch this one, but I was provided one free to review so I checked it out. It seems like a fine animated film for younger children but there isn't much here to offer adults unless you're already a Curious George fan.
The animation is traditional hand drawn which was nice to see, and there are a few scenes where are really animated beautifully. The artwork is fairly simple but that's not necessarily a bad thing. The voice work is also well done, it's nothing amazing but it fits nicely with the animation. The awesome Frank Welker voices Curious George, though he doesn't actually speak, he just makes annoying monkey sounds.
The story finds Curious George first going into space in order to retrieve a device from a satellite that is apparently impossible to rebuild, and then winding up in the jungles of Africa because things go wrong due to him goofing off. But that's Curious George so it really wouldn't be a Curious George movie if he didn't goof off and cause problems. I liked that there was no villain in the film, all the conflict was caused by overcoming obstacles.
The only extra features on the disc are four sing along songs, Ordinary Superman, Welcome to Paradise, Beautiful Wild, and Together Forever. I would have liked to have a featurette exploring the origins of the character, but oh well.
Film Clip: Space
Synopsis
Launch into the adventure of a lifetime with everyone’s favorite monkey in this all-new movie, Curious George 3: Back to the Jungle! When Curious George is asked to take part in a very important space mission, a little monkeying around forces him to crash-land in Africa. While a worried Man with the Yellow Hat searches for him, Curious George bravely explores the jungle and makes new animal friends along the way. Reunited at last, the two best pals have an unforgettable adventure shared with their new friends! Featuring the voice talents of Angela Bassett & John Goodman, with music by the Plain White T’s, join Curious George on his fun-filled journey that the whole family will enjoy!
US Cast
- Angela Bassett
- John Goodman
- Frank Welker
- Jeff Bennett
- Alexander Polinsky