Monday, October 31, 2011

Puss in Boots






Release Date: Oct 28, 2011 RealD 3D 
Runtime: 1 hr. 30 min. 
Director: Chris Miller 
Cast: Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, Billy Bob Thornton, Amy Sedaris.

Before there was an ogre who saved a princess, there was an outlaw by the name of "Puss in Boots," and this is his tale. Acting as a spin-off and prequel, the story takes place before the adventures of "Shrek," where we find Puss on a quest to find the mythical magic beans that lead to the golden goose. Along the way he meets his match in the equally conniving Kitty Softpaws, opposition from the evil duo Jack and Jill, as well as a blast from the past. Call it feline attraction because Puss and Kitty have real onscreen chemistry (can animated cats have that?) thanks to their lead voice actors, Banderas and Hayek. Given that Banderas has had three films prior to mastering the character, his vocal talent really shines through on this solo venture where he takes the reigns. His suave performance is comically intoned, even without the help of a giant ogre and talking donkey. But they do become sorely missed when it comes to Puss's new companions, especially Humpty Dumpty, played by the often cartoonish Galifianakis. Aside from his outlandish behavior and bi-polar attitude, there's just something eerie about seeing a human face plastered on an over-sized egg. But despite the long overhaul of the past two "Shrek" sequels, the story itself is surprisingly refreshing now that culture innuendos are replaced by dashing sword fights and kitty dance-offs. Perhaps it's the choice of character, but "Puss in Boots" seems more kid-friendly than adult when it comes to its underlying jokes. Either way, this hero is here to stay. At least for another sequel.

Rating: 3½ stars

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