TQS StaffMadagascar 3 brings our favourite zoo characters back to the big screen for a third installment that is just as hilarious as the first.
In this second sequel we join Alex (Ben Stiller), Marty (Chris Rock), Gloria (Jada Pinkett Smith) and Melman (David Schwimmer) in Africa where the second film left them. The penguins have rebuilt the plane and leave the African continent behind with the promise of returning for the rest of the gang, of course we all know those crafty birds were lying. So Alex, Marty, Gloria and Melman, followed by King Julian (Sacha Baron Cohen), Mort (Andy Richter) and Maurice (Cedric The Entertainer), hatch a plan to get to Monte Carlo, where the Penguins headed, to retrieve the plane so they can fly back to New York and be reunited with their beloved zoo.They manage to find the perfect cover for their journey; a travelling circus and must reinvent the show, Madagascar style, in order to get back home.
Whilst our beloved zoo animals remain constant in this second sequel, there are new characters introduced into the mix, including; a sweet but simple sea-lion named Stefano (Martin Short), a Leopard named Gia (Jessica Chastain), an embittered Tiger named Vitaly (Bryan Cranston)and even a love interest for King Julian in the form of a bear.
The gang however stumble into the path of the formidable Capitain DuBois the French police-woman-come-animal-hunter, whilst in Monte Carlo and she is determined to mount Alex’s head on her wall. Voiced by Frances McDormand, DuBois is a perfectly matched adversary for the gang as she seems to possess the animal instincts and senses that enable her to track down Alex and the rest of the gang throughout their European adventure.
With action mixed with humour this animation is sure to entertain audiences no matter their age. Full of comedy, this animation offers laughs for children, but also subtle humour for the adults to enjoy, of which most comes at the expense of the Canadian and European work ethic. The incorporation of the circus act is handled carefully and tastefully as not to portray the animal circus routines that have become increasingly frowned upon within society today. Instead the circus sequences offer a surreal performance that is reminiscent of Cirque Du Soleil.
Madagascar 3 is definitely third time lucky, as the film remains just as great as its predecessors bringing new characters, enemies and adventures to the table to allow for an entertaining, imaginative and exciting second sequel that is sure to entertain.
Written by Shirley Welton (@shirley_welton), who also blogs at Beyond the Edges of the Frame.
