Film review: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The squeakquel

Published on Thursday 17 December 2009 18:04

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKQUEL (U) * DIRECTED BY: BETTY THOMAS STARRING: JASON LEE, ZACHARY LEVI, DAVID CROSS

CONFESSION time: I didn't see Alvin and the Chipmunks, the 2007 cinematic incarnation of the helium-pitched, pop star rodents that have been terrorising generations of kids with their irritating novelty act since the late 1950s. I can't tell you, therefore, how well this self-styled "squeakquel" expands upon and deepens what has gone before.

However, the titular trio's guardian, Jason Lee, appears to have instructed his agent to find a way to minimise his contractually obliged appearance by having his character hospitalised for most of it, so make of that what you will. You'll probably empathise with his plight, especially as, this time out, the chipmunks begin attending an all-American high school that just happens to be in need of a group to win a battle of the bands competition.

Thin plot established, the chipmunks continue their mission to desecrate the history of pop and rock music with more zeal than Paul McCartney on The X Factor by taking on a rival girl group called the Chipettes.

There are plenty of lame pop-culture references to Apocalypse Now and Taxi Driver, should any losing-the-will-to-live parents need a final push over the edge.