Dreamworks – Movie Madness

April 21, 2022April 21, 2022

Croods 2

Movie Madness: Week 10

In the sequel to The Croods (2013), Croods 2 continues off of undeveloped plot points of the first and runs with it. Much of the tone is the same compared in the first movie. However, the second movie just seemed sillier and slapstickish in humor the further you got into the movie. Croods 2 left a stronger impression than the first movie though its release was hindered in the height of the pandemic. The facial animations captured of the 3D renders captured every detail in their faces perfectly. Giving the characters elasticity and overall enhancing the characters. Out of all the media covered on Movie Madness, Croods 2 was the first to consistently use split-screen and slow-motion action to emphasize characters and scenes. Though it may not be a diamond-in-the-rough masterpiece, it is a good watch for anyone who enjoys slapstick or Nick Cage.

Final Thoughts

Opinions on the movie

Cam

The entire movie felt like a fever dream. I liked hearing my boy, Nicolas Cage, but overall not a big fan of the movie. It felt all over the place and a lot of the humor was a miss for me

Eric

For Croods 2: I thought that it was a very mid movie, good for a single time watch, but I definitely wouldn’t need to see this again.

Lauren

It was just another movie for me. I could laugh at a few parts so its not a waste of time.

March 17, 2022March 17, 2022

Kung Fu Panda 2

Movie Madness: Week Five

Kung Fu Panda was a great hit in both America and China’s box office. Director Mark Osborne and John Stevenson reveal that Chinese cultural accuracy was one of the most important elements in making Kung Fu Panda. From that dedication and attention to detail came a flood of success and later a sequel. The Kung Fu Panda trilogy has a memorable animation style using 3D and 2D animation. With these stunning techniques came heartwarming morals for kids to learn: be yourself and to allow yourself to heal. Both Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2 are great wacthes for any martial arts lover. However, I believe the sequel really takes the cake for its attention to detail in 2D shadow puppets and emotional 2D flashback scene.

Final Thoughts

How do you think the second movie compares to the first?

Cam

The 2D scenes were so well done. I’m very happy they showed Po’s backstory because Mr Ping is a natural treasure.

Eric

Overall, even though I still preferred the first movie, I enjoyed the change with Shen having more of a reliance on weapons and the mental battle and the humor in some of the scenes.

Lauren

For a while I always favorited the first movie over the second. Now, I see both on the same ground considering the villains being different types of challenge for Po. Shen is a great mental opponent to go against.

March 10, 2022March 10, 2022

Shrek 2

Movie Madness: Week Four

One of these films was going to be covered, it was inevitable. Shrek 2 is a movie everyone is well acquainted with. Released in 2004 by Dreamworks, Shrek 2 was a film most college students grew up with. Riddled with pop culture and music, Shrek 2 stands out as one of the most successful and meaningful sequels in animation. The story builds off and perfectly continues the lesson of self-worth and belonging. The most amazing thing I think Shrek 2 did was perfectly incorporate and give time to new characters. The balance of character development and exposure made the new cast joining seem all the more important to the plot. The 3D animation holds up and stays consistent with its earlier predecessor from 2001. The animation, while less stylistic to media previously covered, is still fun and exciting to watch from the expressive voice cast and well-paced story. If you haven’t seen Shrek 2 but enjoy quick humor and spoof fairytales this is a great movie to watch.

Final Thoughts

Who is the best character in Shrek 2?

Cam

Fiona’s dad was my favorite character. Almost every line he said was hilarious and convincing, due to how good the voice actor was. Also, he’s a frog.

Eric

The best character in Shrek 2 is Puss in Boots, there is no reason or logic for why, it simply just is.

Lauren

Fairy godmother, she is one of the most iconic villains in animation. She could sing, run a potion business, and be super evil. 10/10 character.