Underwhelming DreamWorks animated fare

Rating: 6/10 (31 May 2005)

MADAGASCAR (2005) ** (VOICES OF: Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Jada Pinkett-Smith, David Schwimmer, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric The Entertainer, Andy Richter). Unfortunately underwelming DreamWorks' animated venture about a group of NYC zoo animals suddenly thrust upon the wilds of the titular jungle environs with some comedic moments. Despite some inspired lead vocals and the first half of the film's gorgeous renderings of Manhattan sights including the Central Park Zoo and Grand Central Station the second half becomes tiring no thanks to the annoying lemur king (voiced by Cohen, The Artist Formerly Known as Ali G). (Dirs.: Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath)