Haven’t heard about any protests from the American Meteorological Society about the flagrant mistruths contained in “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.” But perhaps Geraldo Rivera is covering the story.
This extremely fun animated film, based on a children’s book, makes the outrageous suggestion that mild-mannered inventor Flint Lockwood (voice by Bill Hader) has invented a gizmo that turns ordinary rainfall into food.
In Flint’s hometown, previously known for the now-moribund sardine industry, this weather fluke is a goldmine. The mayor (Bruce Campbell) plans to exploit the falling smorgasbord, if only he can stop stuffing hot dogs in his mouth.
The phenomenon attracts the attention of pun-prone weathergirl Sam Sparks (Anna Faris). In fact, the whole world is entranced with Flint’s invention. Nothing could possibly go wrong, huh?
Around the goofy plot, directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (who grew up in Lake Stevens; see an earlier story at tiny.cc/QqSZm) spin a rollicking collection of sight gags and funny characters. Among the zany townsfolk are an over-eager local cop (Mr. T) and one Baby Brent (Andy Samberg), a former child model for the sardine industry who’s still basking in his past glory.
Flint is trying to work out a relationship with his mopey father (James Caan). This leads to one of the film’s funniest sequences, when Flint tries to relay a long-distance message to Dad about how to work a computer. Not a pretty sight.
Happily, the animation (presented in 3D in most theaters) is at the same level. Colorful and crazy, the film tosses a nonstop monsoon of cheeseburgers and flapjacks at you. It’s not as artful as, say, a Pixar movie, but the gumption is there.
And it all moves along with the staccato beat of a good “Simpsons” episode, with plenty of jokes that fly by too quickly to wear out their welcome. Plus the movie gets hipness points for casting the likes of Mr. T and cult fave Bruce Campbell in big roles.
Throw in an experimental monkey with the ability to speak in one-word phrases (admittedly a plus for any movie), and you’ve got yourself something. The only downside: Don’t go in hungry.
“Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs”
Based on a children’s book, this extremely fun animated picture shows the consequences of an invention that makes food rain from the sky. Zany characters and the staccato beat of a good “Simpsons” episode make this one a winner. Co-directed by Lake Stevens native Christopher Miller.
Rated: PG for subject matter
Showing: Alderwood Mall, Everett, Galaxy Monroe, Marysville, Stanwood, Meridian, Neptune, Thornton Place Stadium, Woodinville, Cascade Mall, Oak Harbor
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