A Disappointing Mismatch Of Infantile and Original

Rating: 6/10 (22 July 2014)

It is clear from the outset that this movie is designed for a younger audience. It's excessive use of slapstick violence and an unrealistic plot is a stark contrast to the traditional, more subtle and often sarcastic humour of the original series (in the good old days).
At the same time, however, innuendos creep that are perhaps not 'adult' but certainly for maturer audiences. Jokes about 'playing with yourself' and implied sex scenes (see parents' guide). Whilst these do represent the television series better, and whilst they aren't immediately obvious and would sail over the heads of a younger audience, it has to be said that it does leave me asking questions about who the intended target audience is. It seems to me that the team have just tried too hard to make the movie suit everyone.
The movie itself is mildly funny, but quite frankly that isn't good enough for a COMEDY. I mentioned the plot earlier which, to recap, is too ridiculous, and I was also quite disappointed that many of the series' regulars barely featured (e.g. Apu, who I only remember having 1 or 2 lines).
I guess the movie was OK. It certainly did the show justice for younger viewers, and thus gained a brand new audience for the show. It did however leave many teenagers like myself feeling rather disappointed. It wasn't AWFUL though.