The movie glides along on energy that is absolutely infectious. It is one of those tales that is filled with positive energy, and even when you think you should be hating it, you cannot help but smile at all that is going on. I know the kids that were in my screening were into it, and that helps if you are going to have a successful kids movie.

What makes the movie better than expected comes on two fronts. The two are related but have different implications and different reasons for being. The first is Jason Lee's arc as Dave Seville. As portrayed here, Dave is a down on his luck singer/songwriter with commitment issues. Once meeting the chipmunks, he instantly sees his ticket to the top and attempts to exploit that. Before long, Dave's opposition to commitment begins to wear down and he starts to see the chipmunks as his boys, while the chipmunks are looking for a father figure. As sweet as this arc is, it is interrupted midstream for the other interesting front. While the family thing is put to the background momentarily, this new front will play into the larger family arc.

This second front concerns the way youth is exploited by the industry. David Cross is Ian, the big shot producer pushing Alvin, Simon, and Theodore to make up their own minds, while pushing them towards life on the road. It happens time and time again in the real world. Some young actor will begin to make a name for themselves, but before they can experience their childhood, they are grown up, forced to mature beyond their years, or they crack and turn to drink and drugs. Now, this is not every case, but it works here.

Ian lures the trio away from Dave with promises of toys and no rules. It is a seductive offer that cannot be refused. As their life moves forward, they begin to realize that they miss Dave and the love and structure that come with family life. Life on the road is wearing them out and pushing them further and further away from the ideals that Dave was teaching them.

So, taken together, you have a film about the ties that form between family members, even non-traditional ones, dovetailing with a look at the state of the entertainment industry and what can happen to those who do not keep both eyes open. Both threads are told through the family filter of comedy and high-pitched singing.

Bottom line. This is fun, pure and simple. The special effects are solid, the voice acting is good, and it has a little something to offer everyone. If you are looking for a fun family movie that is a bit more than just a diversion, Alvin and the Chipmunks should ably fill the bill.

Recommended.