The Christian Broadcasting Network

Dr. Seuss' The Lorax

Popcorn Rating

 

Movie Info

RATING:

Rated PG for mild brief language

GENRE:

Animation, Adaptation

RELEASE:

March 2, 2012

STARRING:

Voices of Danny DeVito, Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Ed Helms, Betty White, Rob Riggle

DIRECTOR:

Chris Renaud

DISTRIBUTOR:

Universal Pictures

More on this movie at IMDb.com

 

More Christian movie reviews

Get the latest on Hollywood Insight: A Christian Movie Blog

 

Please Note:
In providing movie reviews on our site, CBN.com is not endorsing or recommending films we review. Our goal is to provide Christians with information about the latest movies, both the good and the bad, so that our readers may make an informed decision as to whether or not films are appropriate for them and their families.
CHRISTIAN MOVIE REVIEW

Dr. Seuss' The Lorax

By Hannah Goodwyn
CBN.com Senior Producer


CBN.com - Danny DeVito is the voice of the Lorax in the new animated feature film from the creators of Despicable Me. Building on the rhyming children’s book, Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax takes on the issue of deforestation, speaking against greed and the evils of capitalism.

THE MOVIE IN A MINUTE

Ted just wants to impress his crush, Audrey. To do that, he must find the one thing she wants in the whole world – to see a living tree. It’s not as easy as you might think because Ted and Audrey live in Thneedville where everything is made of plastic, even the trees are manufactured. To find a real tree, Ted has to venture outside the city walls. There he meets the Once-ler who tells him the story of the Lorax, the guardian of the forest.

THE GOOD AND BAD IN DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX

Starring the vocal talents of Zac Efron (as Ted) and Taylor Swift (as Audrey), Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax is positioned to get the attention of young moviegoers. The Office’s Ed Helms (who is especially good in this animated role) and golden girl Betty White join the cast as the Once-ler and Grammy Norma. Rob Riggle (The Other Guys) voices the evil, greedy Mr. O’Hare. Parents should know this movie is very low on questionable content with a rating of PG for mild brief language.

Directed by animation artist Chris Renaud, The Lorax builds onto the original story with a clear message about preserving the environment and the downfalls of corporate greed. Promises are made between characters and tension arises when they are broken. The message of how not keeping your promises can affect others is a good one. These themes are great ones for kids to learn.

However, at times, the movie does come across as a little preachy, especially during a scene when the Lorax mourns the loss of a chopped-down tree and when the townsfolk sing a church choir sounding song about letting trees grow that seems a bit too worshipful. Our children and society should learn to take better care of our Earth, a beautiful creation made by God. A movie that is anti-pollution and anti-greed is good. But, it’s important to understand we should be praising the Creator and not just His creation; and financial enterprise isn't in and of itself evil.

IN THE END

Not as emotionally engaging as Despicable Me, Dr. Seuss' The Lorax isn’t the best of the best in 3D animation. However, fun songs and witty dialogue make it an entertaining movie with a clear message for kids and adults; just as long as it’s kept in the correct perspective.

For more reviews like this one, sign up to receive CBN.com's Entertainment email update.


Hannah GoodwynHannah Goodwyn serves as the Entertainment producer for CBN.com. For more articles and information, visit Hannah's bio page.

E-mail me!

Log in or create an account to post a comment.  



CBN IS HERE FOR YOU!
Are you seeking answers in life? Are you hurting?
Are you facing a difficult situation?

A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.