The LEGO Movie (2014) -
Just drop everything and go see it.
I went in with low expectations, and decided not to read any reviews: expecting a children's adventure movie with LEGO characters, much like what they've done for their TV series and videogames. Easy CGI animation depicting a LEGO world.
What I got was that...
... and STUNNING CGI animation imitating stop-motion animation (in extreme close-ups, you can make out nicks in the paint, worn plastic). Unless certain parts WERE stop-motion? It was brilliantly done, basically impossible to tell the difference. Beyond even Wallace&Grommet's various attempts at CGI-stop-motion. Past the uncanny valley of reality versus CGI. Phenomenal.
... and EXCELLENT shout-outs to the 20-40-yr-old nerdy community that grew up with them: the classic excellence-in-minimalism instructions, the four-digit part numbers, the retro worlds and collectible sets, the modern era of LEGO movie licenses (I'd love to hear legally how this team made that happen) and collectible mini-figs.
... and INTELLIGENT commentary whizzing over children's heads on the power of thinking creatively versus blind obedience, the possibility of being unique versus a cog in the machine, free will versus being "all part of the plan". Bordering on Pixar-esque. Really enjoyed the message here.
... and a CHARMING cast of celebrity voice actors, HILARIOUSly lampooning either themselves or the pop culture heroes and superheroes who they're presenting.
This phenomenally energetic, bordering on overstimulating, movie had some catchy music too, including one song from the unlikely team of Tegan & Sara and The Lonely Island.
All in all, I pretty much sat there slack-jawed in amazement and astonishment with a smile across my face the entire time, gesticulating "CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS" to the fellow nerdy friends I went with. (And I left with a desire to acquire more LEGO, warning to those whom it may trigger!)
As far as all-ages "children's movies" go, I enjoyed it more even than Wreck-It Ralph, and that's coming from a videogame fan. Go see it.
10/10 Would watch again.
- Stiletto
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The LEGO Movie - Review (no spoilers)
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