Steven Hill
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is one of those iconic characters who, for many, is the total personification (or monkey-fication) of childhood.
The happy and overly-eager little simian we remember from books is perfectly child-like in his innocence, jest for life and penchant for letting a sense of wonder guide him into amusing mischief and messes.
That is precisely the reason Curious George the movie adaptation is such a must-see for those with wee ones in the house.The movie is absolutely geared towards the under-six set, with an overly-simplified plot, lots of primary colours, and plenty of little Curious George being just so darn cute.
But while the movie is greatly recommended family viewing, unfortunately adults will mostly get their fun from viewing their young ones experiencing a movie in a big theatre. Adults will also enjoy the movie's acoustic roots soundtrack provided by former surfer and music industry darling Jack Johnson.
The bare-bones plot has Ted (Will Ferrell) better known as the Man in the Big Yellow Hat, trying to save a museum and his job from a parking lot development. Along the way, he meets and adopts a monkey with more curiosity than 12 dead cats. There's also a love interest (Drew Barrymore), but really, the movie is more about having a sense of wonder and keeping a child-like view of the world.
The feeling and look of the classic books have been lovingly maintained, although the addition of cell phones, the internet and robot dogs certainly updated the material for newer fans.
is a cute movie for the whole family to watch together, and a perfect first film for wee tots, but adults shouldn't expect any intellectual fare - just pure monkey business.
