Who knew that we'd turn out to be a nation hooked on penguins? Happy Feet treads material common to kids films and cartoons: A young animal stands out because of his inability to perform like the other animals, although he seemingly compensates for this defect by demonstrating a certain skill that sets him apart from the others, who ostracize him for his weirdness. Mumble, the young penguin, spontaneously tap-dances like, well, like Savion Glover (whose acclaimed footwork was filmed with motion-capture techniques and grafted onto the penguin's body). This film's prominent ecological themes steer clear of more complex questions but are refreshing nevertheless. The constant singing and dancing is charmingly presented, and the CGI re-creations are stunning. The chase sequences might prove a bit scary for some of the younger viewers, and the opening and closing sections of the film are a little bumpy. Still, you'll most probably find yourself raising your flippers in praise of these flightless fowl.
Opened 11/17/06
