Dr. Seuss' The Lorax: Movie Review

Danny DeVito is the voice of the Lorax in the new animated feature film from the creators of Despicable Me. Building on the rhyming children’s book, Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax takes on the issue of deforestation, speaking against greed and the evils of capitalism.

THE MOVIE IN A MINUTE

Ted just wants to impress his crush, Audrey. To do that, he must find the one thing she wants in the whole world – to see a living tree. It’s not as easy as you might think because Ted and Audrey live in Thneedville where everything is made of plastic, even the trees are manufactured. To find a real tree, Ted has to venture outside the city walls. There he meets the Once-ler who tells him the story of the Lorax, the guardian of the forest.

THE GOOD AND BAD IN DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX

Starring the vocal talents of Zac Efron (as Ted) and Taylor Swift (as Audrey), Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax is positioned to get the attention of young moviegoers. The Office’s Ed Helms (who is especially good in this animated role) and golden girl Betty White join the cast as the Once-ler and Grammy Norma. Rob Riggle (The Other Guys) voices the evil, greedy Mr. O’Hare. Parents should know this movie is very low on questionable content with a rating of PG for mild brief language.

Directed by animation artist Chris Renaud, The Lorax builds onto the original story with a clear message about preserving the environment and the downfalls of corporate greed. Promises are made between characters and tension arises when they are broken. The message of how not keeping your promises can affect others is a good one. These themes are great ones for kids to learn.

However, at times, the movie does come across as a little preachy, especially during a scene when the Lorax mourns the loss of a chopped-down tree and when the townsfolk sing a church choir sounding song about letting trees grow that seems a bit too worshipful. Our children and society should learn to take better care of our Earth, a beautiful creation made by God. A movie that is anti-pollution and anti-greed is good. But, it’s important to understand we should be praising the Creator and not just His creation; and financial enterprise isn't in and of itself evil.

IN THE END

Not as emotionally engaging as Despicable Me, Dr. Seuss' The Lorax isn’t the best of the best in 3D animation. However, fun songs and witty dialogue make it an entertaining movie with a clear message for kids and adults; just as long as it’s kept in the correct perspective.