Monsters vs Aliens starts out where most Disney fairytales leave off-a wedding. Susan Murphy (voiced by Reese Witherspoon) is about to marry the weatherman of her dreams Derek Dietl (Paul Rudd). But alas, it seems that no one ever told the couple that it is bad luck for the groom to see the bride in her wedding dress before the ceremony, even if it is to tell her that the Paris honeymoon is off so that he can go interview in a top 52 market. Bad luck ensues when Susan is hit by a meteorite right before the ceremony and transforms into Ginormica. The government performs a bag and tag, and she wakes up in a holding cell in Area 51, along with some new roomies: B.O.B. the blob (Seth Rogen), Dr. Cockroach PhD (Hugh Laurie), the Missing Link (Will Arnett), and Insectosaurs (a giant that could justify any irrational fear of insects).

When all seems to be lost, a giant indestructible alien probe lands on earth, and the monsters are called on to save the world. If they succeed, they are guaranteed their freedom. And Susan/Ginormica can go back to her life and fiancé.

Actors Reese Witherspoon and Paul Rudd are the odd men out in this line-up, which is a veritable who’s who of Television (if interested the list is below). With the comedic chops of the actors involved, one can’t help wanting more from the film. But instead it joins the ranks of standard Dream Works fare-enjoyable but not distinctive. The movie is well crafted, delivers on the laughs it promises, and can be enjoyed by most age groups.

From Fox: the voices of Hugh Laurie (House M.D.), Kiefer Sutherland (24). And our favorites from Arrested Development: Will Arnett and Jeffrey Tambor. Half of the cast of The Office lend their voices: Rainn Willson, Ed Helms, and John Krasinski.  Rounding out the lineup are Seth Rogen (Freaks and Geeks), Stephen Colbert (The Colbert Report), and Amy Poehler (SNL). – [DVD]

Animation/Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Rated PG

DVD Release Date: 9/29/09

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