Curious George (2006) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Curious George (2006) is a delightful animated film based on the beloved children’s book series by H.A. Rey and Margret Rey. Directed by Matthew O’Callaghan, the movie brings to life the playful and inquisitive little monkey, George, and his adventures with “The Man in the Yellow Hat.” Featuring vibrant animation, a heartwarming story, and a whimsical soundtrack by Jack Johnson, Curious George is a family-friendly film that has enchanted children and parents alike since its release.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, characters, critical reception, and explore where you can stream or rent Curious George online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Monkey’s Big Adventure in the City
The film follows Ted (voiced by Will Ferrell), a museum guide who is known simply as “The Man in the Yellow Hat.” Ted works at the Bloomsberry Museum, which is struggling to attract visitors. To save the museum, he’s sent on an expedition to Africa by the museum’s owner, Mr. Bloomsberry (Dick Van Dyke), to find a legendary idol that will spark public interest.
While in Africa, Ted stumbles upon a curious little monkey named George, who follows him back to the city. Unbeknownst to Ted, George’s mischievous and playful nature will turn his life upside down. The little monkey’s curiosity leads to chaos, from accidentally inflating a massive dinosaur balloon to painting over an art gallery’s exhibits. As Ted tries to save the museum and navigate the challenges of city life, his growing bond with George becomes the heart of the film.
Through George’s playful antics and Ted’s journey to understand the true value of curiosity and friendship, Curious George delivers a feel-good story that appeals to both young audiences and adults.
Will Ferrell: A Perfect Fit for The Man in the Yellow Hat
Will Ferrell brings his signature comedic flair to the role of Ted, aka The Man in the Yellow Hat. His performance captures Ted’s well-meaning but often flustered nature as he tries to balance his responsibilities with the unpredictable chaos that George brings into his life. Ferrell’s voice acting is full of warmth and humor, making Ted a lovable character who is both exasperated by and fond of George.
Ferrell’s vocal delivery adds layers of personality to Ted, helping to bridge the gap between the classic children’s character and a modern audience. His natural comedic timing also works well with the film’s lighthearted tone, offering plenty of laughs along the way.
Curious George: The Heart of the Film
Curious George himself is the star of the show. Although he doesn’t speak, George’s character is brought to life through expressive animation and playful physical comedy. His endless curiosity and innocent approach to the world drive the film’s narrative, leading to a series of misadventures that range from sweet to laugh-out-loud funny.
The animators beautifully capture George’s childlike wonder, from his wide-eyed exploration of the big city to his heartwarming connection with Ted. George’s charm lies in his ability to find joy and fascination in everything around him, reminding audiences of the importance of embracing curiosity and fun.
The Soundtrack: Jack Johnson’s Feel-Good Tunes
One of the standout elements of Curious George is its soundtrack, written and performed by singer-songwriter Jack Johnson. The film’s signature song, “Upside Down,” is a mellow, feel-good anthem that perfectly captures the film’s theme of wonder and exploration. Johnson’s acoustic sound blends seamlessly with the movie’s playful and easygoing vibe, making the soundtrack a key part of the film’s appeal.
The songs are catchy, uplifting, and full of positive messages, making them memorable for both kids and adults. In addition to “Upside Down,” the soundtrack features songs like “The Sharing Song” and “With My Own Two Hands,” which emphasize friendship, kindness, and curiosity—core themes of the movie.
Animation Style: Colorful and Kid-Friendly
The animation in Curious George stays true to the simplicity and charm of the original books. The bright, bold colors and clean lines are visually appealing for young children, while the fluid animation allows for plenty of physical comedy. The style is warm and welcoming, evoking a sense of nostalgia for those familiar with the classic Curious George illustrations.
The city scenes are vibrant and full of life, providing a dynamic backdrop for George’s many misadventures. Whether George is climbing buildings, playing in the park, or exploring Ted’s apartment, the animation captures the whimsy of his world, making it a feast for the eyes.
Critical Reception: A Hit with Families
Curious George received generally positive reviews from critics, particularly for its family-friendly appeal and faithful adaptation of the classic book series. The film was praised for its bright animation, lighthearted tone, and heartwarming message. While some critics noted that the plot was simple and targeted primarily at young children, many appreciated the film’s innocence and lack of cynicism.
Parents and kids alike enjoyed the film’s wholesome nature, making it a popular choice for family movie nights. The positive themes of curiosity, exploration, and friendship resonated with audiences, reinforcing the timeless appeal of Curious George as a beloved children’s character.
Where to Watch Curious George Online in the U.S.
For those looking to watch or rewatch Curious George (2006), there are several streaming and rental options available in the U.S.
Streaming Services
- Peacock
- Curious George is available to stream on Peacock. Subscribers to this platform can enjoy the movie as part of their regular subscription.
- Netflix
- Curious George may be available on Netflix, depending on regional licensing. Be sure to check the platform’s library for current availability.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
- You can rent or purchase Curious George on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99 for HD, while purchasing the movie costs between $9.99 and $14.99, depending on quality.
- Apple TV/iTunes
- Curious George is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV/iTunes, with rentals costing $3.99 and purchases priced around $9.99 to $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV
- The film is also available on Google Play for rent or purchase. Rentals cost $3.99, with purchase options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
- YouTube Movies
- YouTube Movies offers Curious George for rent at $3.99, with the option to purchase starting at $9.99 for HD quality.
- Vudu
- Vudu provides rental options starting at $3.99 and purchasing options from $9.99 to $14.99, depending on the video quality.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless Family Classic
Curious George (2006) is a heartwarming and delightful film that captures the spirit of childhood curiosity and adventure. With its colorful animation, lovable characters, and Jack Johnson’s catchy soundtrack, it’s a movie that appeals to both children and their parents. The film’s gentle humor and positive messages make it a great choice for family viewing, especially for younger audiences.
Whether you’re introducing your children to the timeless character of George or looking for a fun, lighthearted movie to enjoy during family movie night, Curious George is a perfect pick. With its availability across multiple streaming and rental platforms, it’s easy to access and enjoy this charming animated adventure.
