During my trip to Los Angeles two weeks ago, I managed to watch four movies. I have slowly reviewing those movies and have finally arrived at the last one not reviewed. Sing. Even though my children are grown, I enjoy animated films. But this is not one that really captured my attention when it was in the theater. Watching it for free on an airplane? Why not? I am a fan of talent contests.
Sing is an animated redemption film. A struggling theater owner, Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey) strikes up the idea to hold a music talent contest in hopes of raising enough revenue to save his theater. A string of flop productions have him dodging debtors. Foreclosure is looming. An errant typo increases the prize money from 1,000 dollars to 100,000. Turnout for the competition is fierce as a slew of competitors hope to change their dull lives and fulfill their dreams. Each contestant finalist has a backstory that is explored as the stories weave into the competition. Gangsters, prisoners, bankers and bad decisions all threaten to derail the competition. But redemption is in the air.
Sing has a predictable plot and is rife with cliche. The story is often tedious as the contrived elements of the plot are forced together. It feels like a good idea poorly executed. The story could be better, but is hearty enough for a young audience. The animation is spot on. The visual appeal of the film includes some great characters with mildly engaging stories. The animals are animated with human qualities, while maintaining signature aspects of their species. I thought the animation was a redeeming quality. The voice acting was solid. The all-star voices included Seth McFarland, Reese Witherspoon, John C. Reilly, Scarlett Johansson and Jennifer Hudson. The dialogue was okay, but just okay. The story didn't do the animation justice. Although for young viewers, plot is not always the most appealing part of a film. The film does have some physical humor elements which will make the kids giggle.
Sing is good, clean fun. It could have been much better. But it is a worthwhile screening if you aren't paying for it. If you find it streaming, it's worth watching. The music was excellent, which really helped boost my enjoyment of the film. Combined with good animation, I find this to be an easy recommendation. My rating for adult audiences is 6.5/10. I think children are going to be inclined to be less critical and enamored by the animation. For them, I think 7.5 or 8 is appropriate. They are bound to like it.
