Nerds and Macaws: Two Love Stories

Rating: Null/10 (14 August 2011)

CGI animated films have become a common genre in recent Hollywood, especially during the holidays. Among them comes a refreshing little film called 'Rio'. Yes, the story is formulaic and easy to predict but formula not necessarily need be a bad thing, especially when it's treated well. So what makes 'Rio' stand out? It is the animation, energy, humour and charming characters that keep the viewer highly entertained.
Most of the story is set in Brazil's Rio de Janeiro and the stunning animation so beautifully captures its essence with incredible detail and various colour. The detail in the characters and their expressions and movement is very well done. The visuals are very pleasing to the eyes.
The film has a very old Disney feel to it, with its charm and humour. It moves at a steady pace and there's plenty of energy. There are also several songs that appear at the right time and are delightfully visualized. Much of the humour is slapstick and there are also enough funny lines to maintain a balance.
The voice casting is brilliant. Eisenberg and Hathaway are very funny as the lead macaws and they are hilariously supported by Jaime Foxx, Will I Am and Tracy Morgan among others. I also liked that the two lead human characters weren't relegated to the background or given little attention. As such Rodrigo Santoro and Leslie Mann are great as the nerdy pair. I was only a little disappointed that comedy queens like Wanda Sykes and Jane Lynch were barely given more than one line.
'Rio' has a lot working in its favour: Humour, energy, colourful visuals, Rio de Janeiro. And, adults can enjoy it just as much as kids. What more can one ask for in a fun movie?