Quite often parents complain that there are no good family movies to take their kids to. Little ones and parents will get a kick out of Mr. Popper’s Penguins, a funny new movie from currently embattled 20th Century Fox. Just like the title suggests, penguins are a prime focus in this movie. Set in present day New York and directed by Mark Waters (Head Over Heels) this 95- minute romp revolves around the topsy-turvy life of one Mr. Popper. Canadian comic icon Jim Carrey (Liar Liar) returns to fine form as the yuppy executive who lives the good life in New York. Nothing is above this guy’s reach as he wheels and deals his way into success after success. Personal family issues, however, have been a bit more troublesome for this married dad.
Born to an adventure seeking father, the current Mr. Popper has seen his relationships with his children and wife become rather strained. Modern times need modern solutions and Mr. Popper seems destined to a life of riches and deception. How this fellow operates is often in an under-handed fashion. Even his own children are at odds as to whether their dad really cares.
Romantic Interest Carla Gugino Suitable Mommy Material in this Good Hearted Comedy
Poor Mr. Popper must now deal with a divorce with Amanda, his wife, as the pair seem to be going nowhere. Lovely Carla Gugino (Night at the Museum) nicely captures the jilted woman persona. What throws a further wrench into Popper’s already disjointed life is a gift package sent from abroad. Inside this box is a penguin or two. None of these animals are housebroken and the very thought of having to “shelter” these wild creatures in a swanky Manhattan apartment sends Popper over the edge.
Life in Popper’s upscale condo becomes a living hell as day by day, minute by minute, his new “boarders” wreck havoc on anything and everything that get in their way. Kids will get a big kick out of the friendly, loveable penguins. Past encounters with wildlife may have helped Carrey prepare for his part here, which is reminiscent of the work he did while filming those zany Ace Ventura Pet Detective movies.
Jim Carrey Sizzles as a Businessman Trying to Survive a Group of Penguins
Besides some great comical touches and cute as can be penguins, Mr. Popper’s Penguins also has some heartwarming moments. Lessons on life are front and centre in this enchanting story. Preceded by an equally funny brief short featuring another 20th Century Fox animated character, that pesky squirrel named Scat, Mr. Popper’s Penguins in a fully engaging story that small children will definitely enjoy. And the film even has an appearance by screen legend Angela Lansbury (Nanny McPhee) who more than holds her own against the conniving Jim Carrey in one of his best roles yet.
Full of warmth and funny moments, Mr. Popper’s Penguins is a film that the entire family can enjoy, particularly small children
Robert Waldman - Hi. I'm a film critic from Vancouver, British Columbia Canada, considered to be the number one city in the world and third largest film ...
