The Purr-fect Heist: How ‘The Garfield Movie’ Bridges the Generation Gap
Garfield’s love for lasagna is unmatched
As a self-proclaimed cinephile, I was excited to dive into the latest adaptation of the beloved comic strip, ‘The Garfield Movie.’ Directed by Mark Dindal and written by Paul A. Kaplan, Mark Torgove, and David Reynolds, this film promises to bring the lazy orange tabby to life in a way that will delight both kids and adults alike.
“I’m not fat, I’m just big-boned.” - Garfield
The movie opens with a quick montage of Garfield’s (Chris Pratt) daily antics, showcasing his love for lasagna, his disdain for Mondays, and his mischievous ways with Jon (Nicholas Hoult) and Odie. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and a great way to introduce the characters to a new generation of viewers.
The plot thickens when Garfield and Odie are kidnapped by a pair of thuggish pups, Nolan (Bowen Yang) and Roland (Brett Goldstein), who work for the sinister Persian cat, Jinx (Hannah Waddingham). The heist plot allows for plenty of action, adventure, and suspense, with nods to film noir and early silent films. There’s even a ‘Rashomon’-like flashback that adds depth to Garfield’s backstory.
Garfield channels his inner Tom Cruise
The film’s self-aware humor and clever references to Tom Cruise’s ‘Mission: Impossible’ franchise will have adults chuckling, while the kids will be entertained by the zany action sequences and adorable animal characters. The voice cast, including Harvey Guillén as Odie’s noises and Cecily Strong as Marge, adds to the film’s charm.
Garfield and Jon’s heartwarming bond
While the movie may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it’s a fun, lighthearted romp that will appeal to audiences of all ages. With its colorful animation and engaging storyline, ‘The Garfield Movie’ is the purr-fect way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Garfield’s adorable face says it all
Rating: 2.5 stars (out of 4)
MPA Rating: PG (for action/peril and mild thematic elements)
Running Time: 1:41
Where to Watch: In theaters May 24
