Alvin and the Chipmunks Reviews

• Parents: This is a must-see for your little ones

  
  By A3I49HL6XR62DI on 2008-04-04
  This film teaches important lessons to children in a gentle and very entertaining way. Lesson One: Discipline is important to children. Lesson Two: Anything in excess, even fun, can ruin your life. Lesson Three: The entertainment industry, although glamorous, can be harmful. Stable family life is more important. And dads are important role models for young sons. Alvin and his companions Simon and Theodore learn these lessons from their surrogate father Dave and from the hard knocks they endure as they leave Dave and rise to recording stardom. Seldom have I seen such an entertaining film spell out such excellent values for young children. In terms of pure fun, the chipmunks are believable and so precious they can make you cry. Jason Lee is outstanding as the caring "dad", Dave. The music is wonderful: great remixes of "Witch Doctor" and the Chipmunks Christmas song. Don't listen to the critics on this one. It is amazing. See this with your little ones and talk to them about the lessons the chipmunks learn. Oh, and by the way, the movie makes everyone feel like a kid again! The munks version of Funkytown will make you want to get up and dance whether you're 9 or 90. Highly recommended.
  
  

• Fun for kids of all ages

  
  By A3AVJCB1ZD6ZY5 on 2007-12-21
  An interesting cross-section of people attended the film at the same time my husband and I did. There was a group of college kids, parents with children, and Tony and I, who were going to see how faithfully a contemporary film translated a childhood cartoon hero.
  
  From the laughter, booing, and general merriment, I can tell you we were all having an excellent time. This definitely was not a performance that someone who likes to view films in quiet would have enjoyed.
  
  The story: David Seville (Jason Lee) is an advertising exec with dreams of becoming a songwriter. He's got an 'in' with old college chum, Ian (David Cross), who is an exec with Jett Records, but still can't produce anything that anyone would want to sing.
  
  It looks like David's never going to be able to quit his day job until three chipmunks get their pine tree home chopped down and taken to the lobby of Jett Records office building. They stowaway in a basket of muffins David's swiped from Jett in a fit of pique.
  
  A few hours later, David discovers he's got an infestation of talking chipmunks--and the rest is pretty inevitable. He writes a song, they perform it, and become a true overnight success.
  
  I won't spoil the rest of the story for you. This is a lighthearted film that you can take your young kids to without much problem.
  
  Those of you who grew up with the Chipmunks will be pleased with the treatment. The group sings some of the oldies, but they also strut their stuff on newer music as well.
  
  
  
  

• Fox should be ashamed - Continue to support DVD!

  
  By A39RO9FTTRG2OB on 2008-03-18
  Really Fox? This is the best you can manage? I'm pleased to see that DTS and 5.1 audio options are available on the Bluray disk, as of course is widescreen... but are you really telling EVERYONE in the world who doesn't have a Blueray Player or a Playstation that you are simply going to release movies on regular DVD format without 5.1 and with 4:3 screen format? My Home Theatre is capable of providing perfectly good 16:9 and 5.1 and DTS without me going out and buying a Blueray player... I have hundreds of DVDs here which play perfectly well in 16:9 and with great surround sound... Why the crippled DVD Format release? I'm not opposed to having a 4:3 format DVD if there's also a Widescreen version of the disk... but not offering a DVD based 16:9 is a serious mistake that needs to be stopped now before it becomes a trend!
  
  

• Good music, funny scenes, all tied well together

  
  By AKEZ5LBU48M63 on 2008-02-20
  I took both my three year old and my six year old to this movie, and they sat through the whole thing! They were mesmerized by the silly humor. For instance, in one scene Alvin pretends to eat Theodore's poop so Dave thinks it's a raisin and doesn't get mad.
  
  The story starts with Dave, an unsuccessful song writer, who accidentally takes the chipmunks home. This is where all the fun starts. He wants them out, then finds out they can sing! He says they can stay if they sing his music. The chipmunks grew up in a forrest with no parents, so they have NO manners. There are loads of funny scenes as they destroy his house and his social life. He is determined not to be their "dad", they're just friends.
  
  Enter evil uncle Ian. He is Dave and the chipmunks manager, who of course, told Dave his music stunk before the chipmunks entered the scene. On Christmas, Dave had given the boys savings bonds, which granted, is a lame gift. But he meant well, and he was thinking about their future. Uncle Ian comes in with lots of toys, setting the scene for Dave is the serious one, and uncle Ian is the fun one.
  
  Dave of course gets soft to the boys, and his desire that they have a normal childhood becomes apparent, whereas Ian just wants to make money. Ian eventually exploits the situation and the boys come to live with him. This is where the real drama comes in. You have to see the movie to find this part out. But don't worry, it has a happy ending with a nostalgic "ALVIN!!!"
  
  The music is absolutely great. There are songs I remember from growing up in the sixties, and then there are new ones that are more in keeping with today's music.
  
  I pre-ordered this DVD as soon as I found out it was available, and my boys and I can't wait to get it!
  
  

• Celebrity in a Nutshell

  
  By A18G7GG53G2X8A on 2007-12-14
  "Alvin and the Chipmunks" is a cute film, but it's also the cinematic equivalent of empty calories--light, airy, and sweet, with nothing of value except for maybe a few moments of enjoyment. After it's over, the experience is forgotten, and we're no better or worse than before we saw it. There really isn't much that can be analyzed, deconstructed, or even explained; this is one of those films that puts absolutely everything on the table, able to capture the attention of even the most inattentive five-year-old. I'm not saying that this is a bad movie, but I'd be lying if I said that I'm the right person to have seen it. This is for kids and kids alone, a bright, energetic, simple film unfettered of complexity and meaning.
  
  Now that I've gotten all my adult-level jargon out of the way, let me summarize the plot for you. Dave Seville (Jason Lee) is a struggling songwriter, unable to impress anyone with his music, least of all Ian (David Cross), the executive of a record company. When he steals a basket of muffins out of spite, he discovers three small, furry, squeaky-voiced chipmunk stowaways: the troublemaking Alvin (voiced by Justin Long), the brainy Simon (voiced by Matthew Gray Gubler), and the meek overeater Theodore (voiced by Jesse McCartney). Dave soon discovers that the three are natural born singers, and thus negotiates an arrangement: they can stay in his home so long as they sing the songs he writes. The film begins at Christmastime, so naturally, Dave's first song with the chipmunks is "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)." You know--the one where Alvin wants a Hula Hoop.
  
  This song soon brings Ian back into the game, and he immediately shows his true colors by tempting them away from Dave. He lavishes them with expensive gifts. He tells lies about how Dave feels about them. But most importantly, he turns them into full-blown music superstars, allowing them to live a carefree lifestyle of food, toys, and video games. These things sound juvenile, but as Simon explains, he, Alvin, and Theodore are only kids; their parents left them a week after their birth, which is supposedly the way it's done with chipmunks. Of course, if you actually care one way or another about where they came from, how old they are, or even why they're able to talk and sing, then this is definitely not the movie for you.
  
  But I digress. As the chipmunks are lured deeper and deeper into the crazy world of pop music celebrity, Dave realizes that he misses them, despite the fact that they drove him crazy. They in turn feel the strain of constant performing, and even though they believe that Dave doesn't want them back, they still would like to go home. Ian, of course, finds this unacceptable; he sees the chipmunks as nothing but cute moneymakers, an excuse to manufacture and distribute a boatload of rodent-related merchandise. He repeatedly says that he never loses, and isn't that exactly what you'd expect the villain of a kid's movie to say? Anyway, in realizing that the chipmunks are about to launch a twelve-month world tour, Dave vows to save them, not only from Ian, but from fame, as well. Helping him is a press photographer named Claire (Cameron Richardson), and as you might have guessed, she and Dave have feelings for each other.
  
  That's about as much of the plot as there is to summarize. If this doesn't fit the bill as pure child-friendly escapism, then I must have missed something along the way. Short of the direct to video Barbie films, "Alvin and the Chipmunks" is about as fluffy and generally unimportant as they get. It's filled to the brim with sight gags, such as the chipmunks trashing Dave's house, ridiculous character quirks, and a scene in which Simon puts Theodore's accident into his mouth, convincing Dave that a raisin had somehow landed on the couch. There's also moment when Alvin inhales helium from a balloon; apparently, helium makes an already high-pitched voice sound deeper. Pretty much the only things saving this film from being too sickly sweet are the numerous pop culture references--songs such as "Funkytown," "Don't Cha," and "Only You" find their way into the film, as do a number of present day slang terms like, "My bad." Even chipmunks have to keep up with the times.
  
  Or do they? This film adaptation of "Alvin and the Chipmunks" definitely accomplishes what it set out to accomplish, but honestly, did it really have to be made? I know that kids will like this film, if for no other reason than the joy of seeing cute CG rodents on the big screen. I don't debate the fact that this is a good-looking film, and to some extent, it is fun--or rather, about as fun as simple films can be. But that doesn't mean that it was necessary, and I have no doubt that adults will feel the exact same way. I don't know what original "Chipmunks" creator Ross Bagdasarian would have to say about this film, but I suppose it doesn't really matter. At the very least, he would have been glad to hear Dave's trademark shout: "Allllllviiiiiin!"
  
  
• CHIPMUNKS ROCK!
  By A15JWKPVE0UDF7 on 2008-02-19
  The day after Christmas my 87-year-old mother said, "I'd like to go see that Chipmunk movie." This caught me off-guard as she never asks to go to a movie anymore (too much blood, guts, violence, nudity, swearing) and the movie had gotten terrible reviews. I am not a fan of MY NAME IS EARL so I was skeptical about the "human star" too. But we went, and along with the 200 or so kids, we had a fantastic time. We both LOVED this movie. Everything about it is adorable. I can't wait to own it so we can enjoy it over and over. I bought the CD of the music to tide me over until the film is released.
  
  
• Alvin and the Chipmunks is a fun filled ride!
  By AIRHRV3D8X4J1 on 2008-04-04
  I just finished watching Alvin and The Chipmunks and thought it was pretty good. The Movie is tailored more for kids, but if you grew up with the chipmunks you will appreciate this film. After having there tree cut down by loggers, Alvin and his buddies Simon and Theodore end up in Los Angeles where they meet a struggling musician named Dave. After turning Daves house upside down Dave throws them out only to discover their vocal talent. Realizing their potential, Dave introduces them to a record executive named Ian who turns the chipmunks in to an overnight sensation. After Ian takes the chipmunks under his wing and spoils them with toys and gifts, the chipmunks start to miss their home with Dave. Will the chipmunks let fame change them or will they go back to the life they had when they lived with Dave? This is a fun filled movie with the cool little trio many generations have grown up with. As for the Blu-ray high def release the picture is good, but not one of the best. The sound is also mediocre as is the lack of bonus material. I was very disappointed at fox for pulling the extra disc with the digital copy (lets you copy to your ipod) from this blu-ray release at the very last minute. Other than those minor flaws I really enjoyed this film!
  
  
  
• The critics are crazy
  By AVLRHE7W37CQA on 2008-02-18
  The critics were very harsh on their reviews of this movie. My husband and I took our four toddlers (5, 4, 4, and 2) to see this yesterday and I am pre-ordering the DVD today. It is cute, laugh out loud funny in places, and the music is actually very catchy. Lee is not the best actor, but he is supposed to be a washed up, committment phobe of a man...so what do they want? I think if your children are under 14 they will get a kick out of this movie. My husband and I also enjoyed it and thought it was a great day out. I can't wait to watch it again! The new chipmunks definitely have their groove on!
  
  
• The first 30 minutes is good...then, it went downhill
  By A1ODOGXEYECQQ8 on 2008-03-26
  This has a potential to be a great franchise. They have the perennially popular lovable Chipmunks.
  The first few minutes are packed with actions, cuteness (specially the chubby Theodore) and fun. My kids were enjoying it. I said to myself "what were the bad reviewers saying?" Then it becomes a drag. The story shifted into a complicated cheesy plot about betrayal and evil plans. Some things that my kids does not find interesting and understood well. In short, it started as a good kiddie movie and ended up with an adult theme (which even an adult may find boring).
  It was actually moving the first time you hear them singing their famous Christmas song. Sort of reminding me of my childhood.
  I really wish, they have done much better. As a comparison, Garfield movies are at least consistently funnier to the end.
  I am still recommending buying it. But, I won't be like jumping and shouting, "pick this, pick this!".
  
  
• A subliminal morality tale on the dangers of celibacy.
  By A3KUUII2GSHN7T on 2008-04-14
  (please read this review in a pompous, snobbish tone) Alvin and the Chipmunks is one of those great pieces of cinematic bliss that causes the viewer to take one of two paths. The first is to follow the storyline for what it appears to be and the other is to see the story for what it really is.
  
  What we see is a man who adopts three young chipmunks and begins a record career with them. What we're supposed to see, however, is a man, perhaps mid to late thirties, and his frantic, feeble cry for help.
  
  Exhibit A: "Dave", if that is his real name, is the quintessential metro- male, possessing a lavish garden full of fresh flowers, an immaculate house that doesn't so much as show a hint of dust throughout, and a wardrobe that would make even the fastest trigger-tongued females pause out of respect for his delicate taste and touch. And yet, poor Dave can't catch a break. He's creepily overbearing with the ladies (and on a side note, there is enough eye-candy in this film to keep most men delightfully happy) and his entire demeanor screams one deft-defying truth as we psycho-analyze poor and pathetic Davey: that he is celibate, has been so for a VERY long time, and in an effort to proscribe the immensity of his innate desires, creates three fictitious "chipmunks" as a form of psychotic catharis. They are to him the elements that drive the demons away at night as he rocks himself to sleep in the fetal position, the saviors who keep his mind occupied when his hot neighbor walks by in a bouncy-bounce blousey-blouse. They are figments of poor Dave's baseless soul.
  
  So our lesson is clear, kids. Celibacy is a good thing for a while, but not forever. 'Alvin and the Chipmunks' offers cathartic proof in what celibacy will do to you if you hold onto it too long.
  
  sincerely,
  
  the pompous, smug reviewer
  
  
• The Playful Chipmunks, the Benevolent David Seville, and the Greedy Ian Hawke
  By A3Q04XXGGED746 on 2007-12-31
  The lovely chipmunks, Simon, Theodore, and Alvin, enter Dave Seville's home and turn it and his life upside down. They turn it into a giant playground. They tear apart the food packages in his cabinets, and flood his home. Before long, his home is a disaster area. But he works out a deal with them to stay with him. They clean the place up.
  
  His girlfriend, with whom he has had an off-and-on relationship, is puzzled by what turns out to be his chipmunk-hiding behavior and his crazy remarks about talking chipmunks. Not exactly an auspicious way to re-win her heart!
  
  Imagine having an important poster presentation at work, only to find out, during the actual presentation, that the chipmunks had drawn crayon figures all over it? What a way for Dave to lose his job!
  
  It takes some time for Dave to persuade others that the chipmunks can sing. Owing to stage fright, they fail to perform in front of Ian Hawke, his associate. But eventually they do, and Hawke thinks up of ways to use the chipmunks in accordance with his selfish desires. Yet, for a time, the chipmunks perform in front of audiences with Dave. Then it is Ian Hawke's turn.
  
  This movie is about much more than chipmunk antics and performances. It is a testimony to the human condition. David Seville, though often annoyed by the chipmunks' disruption of his house and of his life, nevertheless cares about them. After one of the chipmunks has a nightmare, Dave comforts him. Not so with Ian Hawke, who scoffs at another case of a chipmunk with a nightmare and dismisses him from his bedroom. In fact, Hawke can think of only one thing--MONEY. He dreams up extensive and creative ways of getting rich off the chipmunks' performances, and comes up with a grueling schedule for them. All along, he has no regard for their needs or wishes. When they get exhausted, he simply keeps them going with a coffee-bearing drink. When a veterinarian confirms the severity of the exhaustion, Ian forces them to perform anyway--albeit without singing while the music is playing.
  
  Before long, the chipmunks long to return to Dave. The feelings are mutual. So Ian tells them lies about Dave no longer wanting to have anything to with them, and of calling them rats. Ian tells Dave, over the phone, that the chipmunks have moved on and love it with him. Just to make sure, Ian posts guards to prevent Dave from ever coming to see them. Will they ever get free of the exploitative Ian and see their beloved Dave again?
  
  
  
• Gorgeous and funny :-)
  By A24ZFFRQ4MG3XL on 2008-03-30
  I really loved this movie. It's not only geared for kids, but everyone can find this enjoyable. The chipmunks are adorable and it's clever, cute and very entertaining.
  Jason Lee plays Dave Seville who is a struggling songwriter. When he finds the chipmunks in his kitchen (their tree got cut down to make a Christmas tree and they ended up in the city), he throws them out only to hear them singing later and begins to think that they could bring him success. He lets them stay with him if they sing his songs. There is Alvin who is voiced really well by Justin Long and the mischievous leader of the trio; brainy Simon and cute and chubby Theodore (I love the scene with them having a shower in Dave's dishwasher). But Daves friend Ian wants to break up this happy group to exploit the chipmunks.
  It's such a cute movie that is funny and so entertaining and even though it's not the kind of movie to watch over and over again, it's certainly worth buying to look at everynow and then. I still crack up everytime I hear them singing in their cute little voices and watching them getting up to no good is always hillarious. I highly recommend this dvd and can't wait to get a copy.
  
  
• Better than you'd expect
  By A2A6NH6DPE0VXR on 2008-01-04
  Of course Richard Roeper called it awful but it doesn't take a genious to know he was going to hate it. But really the movie isn't as lame as I expected. It's certainly more watchable than the Garfield or Scooby Doo movies. It has more of a head on it's shoulder and it's more clever and entertaining. I mean it's pretty funny that instead of sounding like a chipmunk when he sucks helium out of a balloon Alvin has a deep voice.
  
  I don't get it how Roger Ebert could recommend both Garfield movies but only give this **. Sure the end is anti-climatic but other than that it's pretty cute and harmless. Well harmless despite the one scene where Simon eats Theodore's poop making believe it's food so he won't get in trouble from Dave. That was gross and un-needed although yes I did laugh but it's not something needed in a kids movie.
  
  
• Alvin&The Chipmunks
  By A13UWA23Q3E0NV on 2008-02-26
  The best family movie of the ealry 2008...SO fun and awesome with music and the voice of Chipmunks...Jason Lee still be great as usual.
  
  
• for all ages
  By ABFOAYZA2UHD3 on 2008-03-23
  I enjoyed watching this film both in the movies and at home with my son of five. Dialogs and humor are not infantile, which makes them fun for the adults, while the kids enjoy watching the chipmunks "being kids".
  Sountrack is great, story is great, animation is great. I's say the lowest point, if tehre is such a thing in this film, are the human actors, overacting a little at times.
  All in all, I wholeheartedly recommend.
  
  
• Funny
  By A1X7FS1H4R02W1 on 2008-03-29
  I think Dave is for letting the chipmuck's stay with him, and learning they music.
  
  
• So sweet that it wil make your heart melt
  By on 2008-01-03
  This movie deserves A LOT more credit than it gets. They creators really outdone themselves. The chipmunks are so innocent and sweet, that you'll fall in love with them right away. The story line is also very good, and you don't have to worry about falling asleep to it what so ever. What else is good? It's perfectly appropriate for children of any age, and will make them laugh and smile through out the entire thing. When you first see the preview for it, you may think it looks terrible, don't believe it! Go and see this movie, you won't regret it!
  
  
• The music makes the movie!!!
  By A3TGPSZA0215AZ on 2008-03-28
  The music makes this movie really enjoyable! Check out the special feature on the DVD called "Hitting the Harmony", about the group of talented people who created the soundtrack. It rocks!!! You will get to see how complicated the soundtrack recording really was. Enjoy!
  
  
• Alvin and The Chipmunks!
  By A32HYEDLMMBBO8 on 2008-03-30
  As a fan of the cartoon classic this 2007 movie is based on, I did not the movie was going to be that great. But it turned out to be much funnier than I originally thought. I'm looking forward to owning this DVD and chilling out with Simon, Theodore and of course, ALVIN! And let's not forget David Seville, their manager!
  
  
• Alvin? Alvin? Allllllllvin!!!!
  By A1MB5HUA3WYEJC on 2008-04-06
  My wife and I just bought this movie and after watching it, it proves that the T.V. and newspaper critics are wrong. But then again, that's what happens when you rely on an opinion. The best way to judge a movie is if it peaks your interest, go see it. If we see a commerical for a movie and it slightly peaks our interest then we wait for it to be released on DVD.
  
  The story follows 3 chipmunks, Alvin and his brothers; Theodore (the one with the baby fat) and Simon (the intelligent one with the glasses). Remember the popular cartoon Alvin and the Chipmunks? Anyway, after their tree is cut down by man, they cross paths with Dave Saville (Jason Lee from My Name is Earl and A Guy Thing), who is a struggling music writer. Dave thinks hes found his big break (he gets an idea to create a Christmas song that most of us had heard on the radio during Christmas time) and tries to convince Ian (David Cross from Men in Black 2 and Scary Movie 2) who is the chairman of Jett Records. They get cold feet. At times the little fury cuties get on Dave's nerves as he hasn't fully accepted them in his house. When Alvin and the Chipmunks go to Ian to try to fix their relationship with Dave, they inadvertnly cause themselves harm. Ian sees visions of money...in his pockets. He cooks up a scheme to lure the chipmunks (who are just kids) away from Dave so he can put them through a grueling European concert tour and a whole lot more. Enriching himself at the expense of the chipmunks. Will Ian succeed? Will Dave be able to save them?
  
  This movie was very cute. The chipmunks while they are a product of CGI animation, they were so adorable. The movie does take place right before Christmas so it seems like a holiday movie. The movie does have its funny parts, drama, and heart warming charm. I will admit that I was like," Awwwwwwww", when Theordore had a nightmare and asked Dave if he can sleep in his bed that night. Dave reluctantly said yes and told him to sleep on the other side of the bed, however Theordore cuddled up on Dave's forehead and wrapped himself in a little ball. So cute! While the animated cartoon Alvin and the Chipmunks wasn't at the top of my list when it was on ( I liked Scooby Doo, The Jetsons, He-man, The Gobots, Heathcliff, Tom and Jerry, The Real Ghostbusters, The Ghostbusters, Woody Woodpecker, Space Ghost, Transformers, and the Hurculoids; just to name a few ;-), this movie was indeed very cute with some spirts of comedy. I will admit that I did watch the cartoon when it was on before I had to go to school.
  
  Hardly any foul language. Just one minor possible issue. Watch out for the part when the chipmunks are singing, Ian says," Make love to the music." Awkward moment alert! This is the only part that might make parents squirm but the scene moves very quickly so it will be unnoticed. I just happened to hear it, most times I'm oblivious, lol until I've watched a movie several times.
  
  The movie has both fullscreen and Widescreen versions on one disc. Side A has fullscreen and side B is widescreen. The movie looked great on a LCD TV and playing it on a 1080p upconverting DVD (recordable) player showed an even beautiful picture. Some minor additions to the DVD include an extra about Alvin and the Chipmunks and a sampling of their music. Alvin and the Chipmunks is a great family addition to your DVD collection as well as anyone elses. Enjoy it!
  
  
• Waaay better than the trailer and poster would lead you to believe!
  By A2UQIIJ2CD8REE on 2008-04-25
  Dave Seville is a struggling songwriter in need of some special inspiration. Just when he is at the end of his rope, his house is invaded by three stowaways from a muffin basket that are just what the witch doctor ordered! Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, the three chipmunk brothers who now live with Dave and perform his songs, are just kids out to have some fun, but they rapidly become the biggest new singing group in the country. It's all good until music mogul Ian Hawke woos the boys away from Dave and his unintentionally parental influence. Pushing them into the fast lane that is the rock star lifestyle, "Uncle Ian" exploits and overworks the Chipmunks while Dave worries and wonders on how to get them back.
  
  When the "Alvin and the Chipmunks" movie poster started appearing in theaters featuring the three famous 'munks in hip hop threads and CGI quasi-realistic form, most longtime fans cringed. There was a lot of bias against this movie long before it ever came out, and I'd say most of this was the result of an unnecessarily misleading poster and trailer making us expect the boys to be unrecognizably urbanized, a new, realistic look and size that is nothing like the most recent and popular vision of the Chipmunks from the 1980's animated TV series and follow-up movies (1 bigscreen and at least 2 direct-to-video), the general distaste held by at least half of animation fans for live-action/CGI interpretations of their beloved characters, and a distaste from much of the public for family films in general. I'd say the reason the film rates so many stars on Amazon.com is because reviewers here actually saw the film before dissing it. Sure, you'll still have some nay-sayers, folks who can't get past the none-too original family-film plot points like the exploitative record producer and the guy learning to be a parental figure, but if you focus on everything else you will find this to be an excellent film that is great fun and just better and better with repeat viewings!
  
  So, what's so great about this movie? Well, to first address the realistic look/size of the Chipmunks in this film and the less passive Dave than the '80's/'90's version: Jason Lee, cleverly cast as David Seville, is more reminiscent of the original Dave based on Ross Bagdasarian, Sr. (Chipmunks creator and original voice of Dave and the boys) than his '80's counterpart. Let's not forget that the Chipmunks originated in 1958, not in the '80's when their now popular redesigns came about as a result of Bagdasarian, Jr. and wife Janice Karman bringing them back. Keeping that in mind, the Chipmunks were music stars before they were ever animated, and on their early album covers they appeared looking very much like real chipmunks. So, the film versions of both Dave and the Chipmunks themselves are quite appropriate for a first live-action movie. It was probably a wise choice to go to the source material for inspiration rather than trying to adapt the '80's show to live-action (though we'd still hope to see some influence from the '80's in any likely sequels, such as the Chipmunks attending school and encountering the Chipettes). Also a very happy thing about the film is that the characters are not as "street" as they appear in the promotional material. In fact, their personalities and voices (despite being voiced by big celebs for some reason) are spot on, just as we've always known them. Yes, the movie is pretty predictable. Dave meets the Chipmunks and together they form a band and a family, with a record producer thrown in as a villain to make it a real feature film. David Cross is hilarious as usual as the slimy record producer, by the way. But it's all about the very fun ride and seeing the Chipmunk origin story told in a grand, modern, live-action scale. There are some nice moments to make it a Christmas fave, the performances are fine (remember that these live-action actors had to play against thin air), the CGI is great, and there's a lot of terrific humor in it too. The driving force though, naturally, is the wonderful Chipmunk music, which sounds better than ever! Flawlessly updated, the songs keep the mood lively and fun throughout the film. In the opening scene, the mood is set beautifully by the Chipmunks doing their own amazing version of "Bad Day", and we are also treated to a dazzling bit of Chipmunk "Funky Town", not to mention updated versions of beloved classics "The Chipmunk Song" (Christmas Don't Be Late) and "Witch Doctor"! And there are many other fantastic tunes too! Even after you've watched the film repeatedly, you'll find yourself running the DVD over and over again just for the musical numbers!
  
  The DVD itself is rather weak in the extras department. It's a double-sided disc (widescreen on one side, fullscreen on the other, the widescreen looking great), and there is one very nice bonus featurette on each side. Side A has a great featurette about the history of the Chipmunks up to today, and side B has a nice behind the scenes look at creating music for the Chipmunks. Unfortunately, the only other extras are previews for other stuff (there's a scene from Horton Hears a Who and a promo for the Alvin and the Chipmunks soundtrack among them). I can't come down too hard on them for so few extras though, because the featurettes, especially the retrospective, are very nice and I love the film. Still, one expects the theatrical trailer nowadays and a commentary is always great. Or maybe a classic cartoon could have been included (as was included with Underdog's live-action movie DVD). However, I did get this movie in a promotional gift set with little plush toys of Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, so that was really cool. Anyway, I highly recommend this film for fans of the Chipmunks who don't mind that it goes back to its roots, especially if you just love their freaky sound. I also recommend the following live-action cartoons: Josie and the Pussycats (with the heavenly Rachael Leigh Cook), Garfield and Garfield: A Tale of Two Kitties (which are flawed in the way some of the characters are portrayed, but Garfield and Odie are well done and they're cute movies), Scooby-Doo and Scooby-Doo 2 (ya love these movies or ya hate 'em, but ya gotta have a sense of humor), the Flintstones and Flintstones Viva Rock Vegas (Viva Rock Vegas is far superior, as they screwed up some of the casting in the original), Popeye (outstanding, underrated film!), Annie (fantastic musical), Dick Tracy (a work of art!), Underdog (nothing too special here, but if you like Jason Lee and live-action cartoons...), Inspector Gadget and Inspector Gadget 2 (I preferred the sequel), George of the Jungle and George of the Jungle 2 (never saw part 2), Dudley Do-Right (don't remember this one well enough to comment), the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films (classics!), Transformers (great action spectacular!), and I could mention more, but that's a good enough start. Of course, if you love Alvin and the Chipmunks, you have to see "The Chipmunk Adventure", "Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the Wolf Man", and "A Chipmunk Christmas", all their best work outside of this new live-action feature!
  
  
  
  
  
• We love the chipmunks!!
  By A3G4M3VY7EO9O5 on 2008-01-30
  We took my 5 year old son and his twin 3 year old sisters and we all agree it was a huge hit! The newly designed characters are adorable. The movie kept all of us entertained. The music was great too!! Cant wait for this to be released on DVD.
  
  
• Laugh-out-loud funny!
  By A1YCQWZ8VHEZ3I on 2008-02-24
  My family - myself, my daughter, my parents, and my sister - watched the Chipmunks just before Christmas as part of a family outing. Ranging in age from 6 to 52, each of us laughed out loud - regularly - throughout the film (along with everyone else in the theater). I knew we had a winner when, as we exited the theater, I asked my daughter what she thought of the movie, and she simply replied, "I want it." She has never specifically asked me to buy ANY movie watched in the theater. And I admit, I want this movie too!
  
  It was such a refreshing change from the animated movies released over the past couple of years. With those movies, we watched the previews and headed to the theater with great anticipation just to leave the theater disappointed because every one of the funniest moments was covered in the previews and honestly was funnier in the previews. With this movie however the trailers undoubtedly had us laughing; we played them over and over (we particularly enjoyed the dishwasher/shower scene). But during the movie, we not only laughed at all those same moments, but more importantly we laughed at many, many others.
  
  I recommend this movie for everyone - kids and adults. I don't know how anyone could leave the theater without a smile and without at least one or two chuckles on the drive home. I'm looking forward to watching it again (and again), not only because it was laugh-out-loud funny and 100% enjoyable, but also because I want to see all the parts I laughed over - and thus missed - the first time around.
  
  
• I'm "munk'd!"
  By A3RXDLVD4LCYRD on 2008-02-27
  I saw the movie 3 times in the theater, and I really cracked up! Now, if only "Monk" was anything like this!(only kidding--pun intended!) On opening weekend, I took myself to this, and nearly fell apart laughing--see above! Who knew they (the chipmunks) would be so talented?
  
  
• Love those Chipmunks!
  By AE6FL7DNLV938 on 2008-04-01
  Forget the critics!! This movie is what it is, and it is FUN! Not to mention cute, entertaining and heartwarming. This is not normally the type of movie I'd review, but my kids were so upset at the critics reviews that I had to say something. We took them to see this before Christmas and they loved it! Like a ride at Disneyland, they wanted to get right back in line! I have to say there was some fallout...I had to listen to Alvin and the Chipmunks sing Christmas songs until I was desperate for the next holiday!(Which didn't take long!) Enjoy this movie & have fun, which won't be too hard to do:)
  
  
• Great movie!
  By ACLE5PQPFVIJU on 2008-04-02
  This movie was really cute and great for kids and adults alike. If you haven't seen it yet, then it's definitely worth seeing.
  
  
• OOO EEE OOO AH AH!
  By A2DAHERP7HYJGO on 2008-04-06
  For many of us our childhood was filled with the memory of three little voices singing in beautiful high pitched harmony. Granted those voices were sped up singers whose altered versions were representing three loveable rodents, but to us it didn't matter. Alvin and the Chipmunks were as real as anything else on TV. Now, Alvin and his brothers Simon and Theodore receive an update and it's not half bad.
  
  David Seville (Jason Lee of MY NAME IS EARL) is a down on his luck songwriter whose songs are too cutesy for ex-friend and mega mogul record producer Ian (David Cross). But all that changes when he inadvertently comes across three singing chipmunks that turn his song about Christmas wishes into what is a potential blockbuster. Once Ian hears the song and realizes the potential, he comes across big time with a set up that will make the boys stars.
  
  Dave, while trying to set boundaries up letting the three know that they are working together and nothing more, begins to grow attached to the little guys. He may be strict on a few items but he has their best interests at heart. Not so Ian.
  
  Ian sees nothing more than dollar signs when he hears them singing. He begins a campaign to lure them away and make them the latest pop sensations of the world. His lavishing of gifts and wooing of the boys via their egos results in Dave being left behind while Alvin and his brothers live a life of luxury and non stop toys.
  
  But all of this comes with a price as the chipmunks are worked non-stop. New records, merchandise and a worldwide concert tour take their toll and they reach a point of exhaustion. Too bad Ian sees them only as rodents that are there to do nothing more than increase the size of his wallet.
  
  It's up to Dave and his old girlfriend to save the day and rescue Alvin, Simon and Theodore. But will they be too late? Will the boys finally realize that Dave was right all along? And will Ian be able to stop any attempt at rescue that is made?
  
  Okay face it, you know the outcome of a movie like this. It's not the answer to that question that makes you watch. It's more about the interplay between the characters, even if three of them are computer generated. You still find yourselves attracted to the cute little guys and want the best for them.
  
  The movie features over the top performances by all cast members, but that should be expected in a movie aimed at the elementary school level audience. They'll be more interested in the three main characters anyway and touched by scenes such as Theodore climbing into bed to sleep with Dave after having a nightmare.
  
  At least two classic Chipmunk songs are featured here, one sounding much like the original while the second gets an update. A few scattered gastro intestinal jokes are offered for the new generation, but on the whole this is a movie that the entire family can watch together. That alone makes this movie a fun watch for everyone.
  
  
  
• Alvin And Co. Hit The Big Screen
  By A2RKI7RPP5CJMG on 2008-04-21
  Growing up, one of my earliest memories is of listening to an "Alvin and the Chipmunks" album that spoofed the "Urban Cowboy" soundtrack. I have no idea what happened to that album, but I do remember that it hooked me on Alvin and company for good. I watched the cartoon series that came out in the 80's and even saw a few of the old cartoons. When I saw that Alvin and the gang were headed for the big screen, I had two thoughts: a) This will be the single worst live action remake ever or b) It just might be fun. Luckily for me and my daughter, "b" was the correct thought. When this film came out in theaters, I took my daughter to see it and both of us laughed throughout the film. Jason Lee does an amazing job as kind-hearted Dave Seville, and the voices for the chipmunks, Justin Long (Alvin), Matthew Gray Gubler (Simon), and Jesse McCartney (Theodore), have their respective characters penned perfectly.
  
  The story revolves around Dave finding the chipmunks in his home at Christmas time and then finding out that they can not only talk, but can sing a mean tune as well. Desperate for money-making song, Dave takes the chipmunks to his record-producer friend, Ian (David Cross in one of his best roles yet), who doesn't believe Dave at first. Once he discovers the truth, Ian promotes the chipmunks to death in order to drain every dollar he can out of them. Eventually the chipmunks turn on Dave, and run to the lap of luxury that Ian promises them. In the end, though, this turns out to be a film about the strength of the family, no matter how different it might be.
  
  The DVD comes with both the full and widescreen versions of the film, as well as some decent special features. The best of those features is an in-depth look at the creation and creator of the chipmunks, Ross Bagdasarian, Sr.
  
  I thought very hard on giving this film five stars. It's just that good of a family film. Sure, there's a little crude humor but the tale is strong enough that most will be able to look beyond that. In the end, I have to give "Alvin and the Chipmunks" a very, very sold four stars. I highly recommend it to anybody with children or anyone who wants to recall some wonderful old memories.
  
  
• I'm Disappointed, this movie could have been much better
  By A2308F57EIR2G6 on 2008-04-28
  Alvin & The Chipmunks had a good beginning but lost its way near the middle. I also think it was a mistake to jazz up the original Christmas song. It could have been much better.
  
  
• Fun With The Chipmunks
  By A3M1NNDD95HR0R on 2007-12-17
  I have to say that this movie was very enjoyable for me, partially because I am a kid at heart but also because I am a long time fan of Alvin and the Chipmunks, first being exposed to them by the cartoon, of which I saw many episodes. While your brain may not be overly stimulated by this movie, that may not be a reason to avoid it. It is really a lot of fun, and the chipmunks are so cute. It does seem geared for children primarily, but if you like anything about Alvin and the Chipmunks you should see it. Four stars.
  
  

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