Being born in the mid-1970s, I became a fan of the Alvin and the Chipmunks cartoon series in the 1980s. How could I not? It was always on, it was colorful, and it held my attention. My fandom even carried on so far that I owned a few of the record albums (that's right, records, not CDs or even tapes). I remember having A Chipmunk Christmas, Urban Chipmunk, Chipmunk Punk, and Chipmunk Rock. Let me tell you, that is a lot of high-pitched singing!

I eventually grew out of that phase, but like many things from childhood, the trio held a special place in my heart. This translated to my intense worry concerning this live action film that was getting readied for the big screen. Well, not really, but just like anything you like from your childhood, I did not want to see the Chipmunks turned into more of a commodity than they already are.

When the early teaser trailer came out, I thought for sure this was going to be a trainwreck. There was something in the way Jason Lee gave the "Allllviiiiiiin!" yell that did not ring true. It did not look natural, more like a put-on yell to collect a paycheck. Then the full trailer arrived and I was still worried, but hey, David Cross is in it and he tends to consistently deliver laughs. Of course, I could have done without the fart jokes, but those seem to be inevitable in this kind of movie. Even with all of this concern (again, not really, but you get the idea), I still made my way out the theater and hoped for the best while expecting the worst.

I am happy to report that the movie was considerably better than I was expecting. No, it was not the best I had hoped for, nor will it be listed among the top family films. Still, I was won over by its charms and youthful energy. Alvin and the Chipmunks even had an interesting story to tell, complete with comments on the state of entertainment. I am also happy to report that the film is not about the return of the Chipmunks as the teaser would suggest, but is a new telling of how they got their start and rose to fame.

The story is a simple one. Tree containing chipmunks is cut down and becomes a Christmas tree in an office building. The chipmunks hitch a ride with struggling musician Dave Seville (Jason Lee). Dave discovers that the woodland critters can talk and sing, convinces them to sing his songs and are skyrocketed to fame.

Sounds simple enough.

Fortunately, the screenplay by John Vitti, Will McRobb, and Chris Viscardi actually has some substance to it. It also has plenty of moments for the audience to go: "Aww, isn't that cute." There is a little something for everyone if you are willing to pay attention, which for some will be a tough task. It all has to do with how much squeaky dialogue you are willing to put up with, not to mention the singing.