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Singing competitions have proven to be reality TV gold, with one show after another jumping on the bandwagon. So now Illumination Animation’s latest feature, Sing, brings the trend to the animated animal world, pitting pig against gorilla against porcupine in its quest for holiday box office gold.
Sing follows the adventures of down-and-out theater owner Buster Moon (voiced by Matthew McConaughey), who’s in grave danger of losing his beloved theater. In a last-ditch attempt to turn it into a profitable business, he decides to offer every last cent that he has as prize money for a singing competition—and he’s delighted when all kinds of animals from all over town show up to audition. But as his chosen competitors prepare for the big night, each of them deal with their own issues while Buster fights to stay open just a little longer.
Just months ago, Disney released its own talking-animal movie, Zootopia—and, really, it’s difficult not to compare the two. Both place a bunch of different animals together in real-life situations—and their settings and style all feel strangely similar. But while Zootopia is sweet and clever and socially aware, Sing is just silly, musical fun.
The animation here is bright and colorful and imaginative—from the characters to the city streets. The music, too, is a whole lot of fun—especially the audition scenes (which, of course, are often the best part of real singing competitions). And while kids will love watching the silly animals and their wacky performances, grown-ups will end up singing and laughing along with these surprising snippets of musical numbers, too.
Sing is also loaded with cute characters—each with his or her own story and personality. There’s Reese Witherspoon’s Rosita, a lovable (and resourceful) stay-at-home mom who’s raising a house full of piglets. And Taron Egerton’s Johnny, a gorilla who dreams of breaking out of the family’s life of crime for a life of song. And Tori Kelly’s Meena, a shy elephant who struggles to overcome her stage fright. And each one learns and grows along the way. At the center of it all, Buster Moon’s story may not be especially strong, but there are so many stories going on around him that there’s plenty here to enjoy.
Sing isn’t as clever—or as thought-provoking—as Disney’s Zootopia, but it’s simply good, family-friendly fun. So if you’re planning an outing with the kids during their winter break, plan a trip to your favorite theater for this lovable, feel-good singalong.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
