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So many animated films these days are the kind that make kids giggle and their parents cringe. They’re silly and immature, filled with jokes about various bodily functions. Even Pixar seems to be slowly moving away from sophisticated family films. But the charming 3D adventure A Monster in Paris seeks to pick up some of the slack.
The English version of this French film features Jay Harrington as the voice of Emile, a shy cinema projectionist who’s secretly in love with ticket seller Maud (Madeline Zima). While out on an adventure through 1910 Paris, Emile and his friend, delivery truck driver Raoul (Adam Goldberg), deliver a package to the mysterious laboratory of a brilliant botanist. The botanist is out of town—and a mishap in the lab results in the creation of a giant, bug-like monster, who sets out to terrorize Paris.
Meanwhile, the city of Paris is flooded—and Commissioner Maynott (Danny Huston) sees the monster as the perfect distraction. He publicly vows to destroy the creature and save the city—but as the beautiful Lucille (Vanessa Paradis) soon discovers, the monster might not be such a monster after all.
A Monster in Paris isn’t the typical animated film. Instead of wacky humor and cartoonish settings, it blends striking musical numbers with hints of classic gothic tales and an unmistakable Parisian flair to create an unexpected animated adventure.
The film has a little bit of something for everyone. Kids will love the film’s more playful parts—from the fun-filled chase scenes to lovable characters like Charlie, the botanist’s clever monkey/assistant. And, really, as far as kids are concerned, any excuse to put on the 3D glasses and join in on a 3D race through crowded city streets is appreciated.
Still, the film seems to be geared a little more toward older, more mature audiences. Grown-ups will appreciate the story, which tips its hat to classic tales like Frankenstein and The Phantom of the Opera. They’ll also enjoy the charming Parisian setting, the beautiful songs (performed by Paradis and Sean Lennon), and the elegant style—not to mention the fact that it allows them to watch a movie with their kids without having to endure a single fart joke.
Admittedly, the decisively European style of A Monster in Paris might feel a bit slow and even heavy for some younger viewers. After all, this isn’t the over-the-top silliness of most of the cartoons they watch. Despite the cute characters and chase scenes, it’s still pretty low-key and dramatic—more charming than thrilling. But if your kids are ready for an animated film with a little more class, A Monster in Paris will be an unusual treat for you and them.
