I’ve been a fan of Aardman Animations and their stop-motion style since the first time I saw the short film “Creature Comforts,” and while the techniques (and technology) has improved over the years, there’s a goofy charm to the look and feel of their projects. “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget” is no different, at least stylistically, and it should delight animation fans. Overall, though, it’s not one of the studio’s greatest nor most successful efforts.
Ginger (voice of Thandiwe Newton) and Rocky (voice of Zachary Levi) have escaped from Tweedy’s farm, choosing to settle down on a quiet island bird sanctuary that’s far away from the dangers of humans. With an egg about to hatch, the pair are anxiously waiting to welcome a new little adventurer into the flock. The arrival of their new daughter Molly (voice of Bella Ramsey) brings complete happiness to the feathered family, but it doesn’t last long. A new danger lurks on the mainland, spearheaded by Mrs. Tweedy herself (voice of Miranda Richardson). What follows is an adventure that’s led by Ginger in a quest to keep the chickens safe.
The story is lacking in so many areas. Where the original film was playful and smart, this one feels so indifferent. There isn’t much with or charm, and it’s not inventive at all. Director Sam Fell seems content with going for the easy joke here, but it a sight gag or a tired one-liner. It’s not all bad, but only if you don’t compare it to its predecessor.
Like the first “Chicken Run,” the film has dark undertones about the poultry industry, and a major plot point involves a machine that tricks chickens into be happy that they’re headed to the slaughterhouse. Combined with colorful, bright, and cheerful animation that feels exceedingly juvenile, this makes for a confusing and really weird combination.
The highly repetitive story doesn’t always work and the British humor is definitely an acquired taste, but there’s enough family-friendly fun here that makes “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget” barely passable for kids and animation fans.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 