Furry Vengeance (2010) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Furry Vengeance,” released in 2010, is a family comedy film directed by Roger Kumble. Starring Brendan Fraser, Brooke Shields, and Ken Jeong, the movie follows the comedic misadventures of a real estate developer who faces off against a group of woodland creatures determined to protect their forest home. This review explores the plot, performances, direction, and overall impact of the film, along with providing information on where to stream or purchase it in America.
Plot Summary
The film centers on Dan Sanders (Brendan Fraser), a real estate developer who relocates his family to the Oregon wilderness to oversee a new housing project for his unscrupulous boss, Neal Lyman (Ken Jeong). Dan is tasked with transforming a pristine forest into a residential area, much to the dismay of the local wildlife.
The animals, led by a clever raccoon, band together to thwart Dan’s plans and protect their habitat. They unleash a series of pranks and traps, turning Dan’s life into a chaotic nightmare. As Dan struggles to outwit the animals, he begins to see the environmental impact of his actions and reconsiders his priorities.
Performances
Brendan Fraser brings his trademark physical comedy to the role of Dan Sanders. His exaggerated reactions and slapstick humor drive much of the film’s comedic moments. While the role may not showcase Fraser’s full acting range, his commitment to the physical demands of the part is commendable.
Brooke Shields plays Tammy Sanders, Dan’s supportive wife, who becomes increasingly concerned about her husband’s sanity as he battles the animals. Shields provides a grounding presence amidst the chaos, though her character is somewhat underutilized.
Ken Jeong delivers a typically over-the-top performance as Neal Lyman, the greedy and manipulative boss. His comedic timing and eccentric mannerisms add to the film’s humor, though his character remains a caricature of corporate greed.
The voice performances for the animals, while non-verbal, are enhanced by the film’s use of expressive animation and sound effects, adding personality to the woodland creatures and making them central to the story’s appeal.
Direction and Cinematography
Roger Kumble, known for his work on films like “Cruel Intentions,” takes a different approach with “Furry Vengeance,” aiming for a family-friendly comedy with an environmental message. The direction focuses heavily on slapstick humor and visual gags, appealing primarily to younger audiences.
The cinematography by Peter Lyons Collister captures the lush, green landscapes of the Oregon wilderness, emphasizing the natural beauty at stake. The contrast between the serene forest and the chaotic antics of the animals and Dan provides a visually engaging backdrop for the story.
Critique
“Furry Vengeance” aims to deliver a light-hearted, environmentally conscious message through comedy. While the film succeeds in providing family-friendly entertainment, it relies heavily on slapstick humor and predictable gags, which may not resonate with all viewers.
The plot is straightforward and formulaic, with a clear message about environmental conservation and the importance of protecting nature. However, the execution of this message often feels heavy-handed and simplistic.
The film’s strength lies in its ability to entertain younger audiences with its physical comedy and animal antics. Brendan Fraser’s performance, though not his most nuanced, is energetic and committed, making the most of the comedic situations.
Streaming and Purchase Options
For those interested in watching “Furry Vengeance,” there are several options available in America:
- Streaming Services: The film is available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. Subscribers to these services can watch the movie at no additional cost.
- Rental and Purchase: You can rent or purchase the movie on digital platforms like Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Apple iTunes, and Vudu. Prices for renting typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchasing the film can cost between $9.99 to $14.99 depending on the platform and video quality.
Conclusion
“Furry Vengeance” offers a blend of family-friendly comedy and environmental messaging, driven by Brendan Fraser’s energetic performance and a cast of mischievous woodland creatures. While the film’s humor and plot may not appeal to all audiences, it succeeds in providing light-hearted entertainment for younger viewers. The movie’s accessible streaming and rental options make it easy for families to enjoy this comedic battle between man and nature.
