Gnomeo & Juliet

Shakespeare’s classic is re-imagined as two animated feuding families of garden gnomes waging war upon each other’s yards. As case may have it, the prized offspring of both families, Gnomeo (James McAvoy) and Juliet (Emily Blunt), manage to fall madly in love with each other. But can their love survive despite the disapproval of their respective families; and, more importantly who will survive the wrath of the Terrafirminator? Voiced by an all star cast including Michael Caine, Maggie Smith, Jason Statham, Ozzy Osbourne and Patrick Stewart, the talent runs deep here. Meanwhile, the writers of the screenplay clearly had fun adapting Shakespeare’s work into something that will sit well with audiences both young and old. And, with the lion’s share of the score coming directly from Executive Producer Elton John’s library it’s hard to miss musically. That being said, the film doesn’t get complete originality points with concepts and some humor lifted directly from Toy Story. Still, the film managed to make me chuckle and laugh out loud enough to earn my respect. Again, 3D effects aren’t utilized to their utmost, but they don’t detract either. A fun matinee for the family. Gnomeo & Juliet is rated G.