In a world where Pixar reigns supreme, other 'wannabe' studios rarely merit a mention in terms of their universal appeal in animation. Sony penetrated the market a bit earlier in the year with Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, and while they looked to have the receipt for success with Planet 51, after watching the film, I sit here in amazement at the fact that it was ever even made.
The film, which challenges the way we see and use the term 'alien', takes place on Planet 51, a far-away world that plays home to a civilization entirely different from our own. When Captain Charles "Chuck" Baker lands his US spacecraft on this supposedly uninhabited planet, the green guys become fascinated with their visitor, determined to find him, dead or alive. Seen as an alien in his own right, Baker must learn to work with those around him if he is ever to return home alive"¦ His base ship is set to take off in less than three days, with or without him.
Sounds interesting, doesn't it? Don't be fooled.
Where Planet 51 succeeds is in its premise. A short paragraph gives you just enough insight and drama to sell you on the film, but when you venture into the dark theater, you will regret your decision all together because the feature is plagued by ridiculous characters, failed attempts at wit and cleverness and a jumbled, unneeded ending.
Dwayne Johnson, Jessica Biel, Justin Long and Seann William Scott all lend their voice to the feature, which gave me hope early on. However, in what many will consider the ultimate nail in the coffin of discussion, Planet 51 proves that having A-list talent on a poster doesn't promise a successful film as none could generate enough momentum to save the script from its destined placed amongst other Razzie-hopefuls.
A few lines of dialogue and occasional practices on the previously-unknown planet will bring a rare smile to your face; however, each time it is ridiculously short lived. There is simply too much going on to really focus in on one thing. A side plot dealing with protesters, the whole comic book setting, and the forced upon love interest serve as a harsh distractions in terms of character development and appeal. There is no flow, no continuity and no entertainment for those who can actively comprehend what is occurring on-screen.
Sure the under two crowd will probably find the film enjoyable, but I can't really imagine anything that those guys wouldn't sit up and clap for. Others, please take note that not only is Planet 51 an embarrassment to the world of animation, but it is a kind reminder of the type of films we would be seeing more of had there not been the development of Pixar.
