The Garfield Movie – Review

The Garfield Movie is the long-awaiting return of my spirit animal.

The Garfield Movie is ready to put the spotlight on everyone’s favorite Monday-hating cat. In this animated film from Sony Pictures, Garfield (voiced by Chris Pratt) and his canine friend Odie are thrust from their pampered life into a wild adventure with Garfield’s long-lost father, Vic. Their journey, which involves a hilarious, high-stakes heist, is both heartwarming and entertaining. ‘The Garfield Movie’ hits theaters on May 24th.

Check out my interview with director Mark Dindal!

Pratt’s voice work as Garfield is solid, reinforcing his status as one of the biggest stars on the planet. He’s already the voice of Mario, Star-Lord in the MCU, and has led three Jurassic World movies. His performance as the iconic, lasagna-loving cat is another feather in his cap. Nicolas Hoult impresses as Jon Arbuckle, Garfield’s bumbling yet lovable owner. Hoult, who will soon play Lex Luthor in James Gunn’s Superman movie, brings an unexpected but delightful voice to Jon. His portrayal is so engaging that I found myself wishing for more of Jon in the plot. It would be exciting to see Jon in the dating scene next and perhaps some feline love for Garfield.

The film also introduces us to Garfield’s dad, Vic, voiced by Samuel L. Jackson. Jackson delivers a top-notch performance that adds a heartfelt dimension to the story. The scenes between Garfield and Vic are touching and sometimes bring tears to my eyes. The story’s emotional depth is one of its strongest points. Odie, everyone’s favorite dog, shines in his semi-silent yet expressive way, adding to the movie’s charm. The slapstick and physical humor are abundant, and while some jokes land better than others, the overall effect is entertaining. The laughter was infectious in a theater filled with kids, and I enjoyed it just as much as the little ones.

While the story could have been more exciting and fast-paced, it offers a unique and fun narrative. The film’s blend of humor and heart makes it a delightful watch. However, I hope to see the Garfield IP return to its roots with an animated series focusing on the antics inside the house and some outdoor exploration.

Verdict

I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. Growing up, I was a big fan of this orange feline, and I’m thrilled to see Garfield back on the big screen. Pratt as Garfield is purr-fectly cast, and this film makes for a fantastic family outing. Whether you’re a lifelong Garfield fan or new to his antics, this film will surely entertain.

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