Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008), directed by Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath, is the delightful sequel to the popular animated film Madagascar. This family-friendly adventure continues the story of Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe as they attempt to return to New York City from their African adventure. Featuring an all-star voice cast and a mix of humor and heart, the film builds on the success of its predecessor with vibrant animation and engaging characters.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Wild Adventure Continues
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa picks up where the first film left off, with Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman trying to find a way back to New York City. Their journey takes a detour when they crash-land in Africa and discover that Alex’s long-lost parents are living there.
As the group explores the African savanna, they encounter new friends and rivals, including a rival lion named Makunga (voiced by Alec Baldwin) who challenges Alex for dominance. The film follows their misadventures as they navigate the challenges of their new environment and strive to reunite with their old home.
Performances: A Star-Studded Voice Cast
The film features an impressive voice cast that brings energy and personality to the characters:
- Ben Stiller reprises his role as Alex the Lion, infusing the character with humor and emotional depth. Stiller’s performance captures Alex’s journey of self-discovery and his bond with his family.
- Chris Rock returns as Marty the Zebra, providing his signature comedic timing and a lively performance. Rock’s portrayal adds a dynamic element to the film’s humor.
- Jada Pinkett Smith voices Gloria the Hippo, delivering a strong and caring performance that highlights Gloria’s role as the group’s moral center.
- David Schwimmer reprises his role as Melman the Giraffe, adding a touch of neurotic charm to the character. Schwimmer’s performance enhances the film’s comedic and emotional moments.
- Alec Baldwin joins the cast as Makunga, bringing a mix of charisma and menace to the role of the rival lion.
Themes: Friendship, Self-Discovery, and Belonging
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa explores several key themes:
- Friendship: The film emphasizes the importance of friendship and teamwork as the characters navigate their challenges and support each other through their adventure.
- Self-Discovery: Alex’s journey to reconnect with his roots and his struggle with his identity are central to the story, highlighting themes of self-discovery and personal growth.
- Belonging: The film explores the idea of belonging and finding one’s place in the world, both for the characters as they navigate their new environment and for Alex as he reconnects with his family.
Direction and Style: Colorful and Entertaining
Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath’s direction ensures that Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa is visually vibrant and entertaining. The animation features colorful and dynamic visuals that bring the African landscape and its wildlife to life.
The film’s humor and energetic pacing make it engaging for audiences of all ages. The musical numbers and comedic set pieces add to the film’s charm, creating an enjoyable experience for viewers.
Where to Watch Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa Online
If you’re interested in watching Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video (with subscription): Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video with a subscription. Check the platform for current availability.
- Hulu (with subscription): The film might also be available on Hulu. Verify the current catalog for availability.
2. Rental Services:
For those who prefer to rent the film, several platforms offer it for a one-time rental fee:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa for $3.99 in HD, with 48 hours to watch after you start streaming.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental at $3.99, allowing you to stream the film on various devices.
- Apple TV: Rent the movie for $3.99 in HD, with the option to watch on all Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers the film for rent at $3.99, compatible with most streaming devices and smart TVs.
3. Purchase Options:
For those who want to own a copy of the film, it is available for purchase on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Purchase Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa for $14.99 in HD, available in your digital library.
- Apple TV: The film is available for purchase at $14.99, allowing for offline viewing on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase the film for $14.99, with access across multiple devices.
- Vudu: Purchase Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa for $14.99, available for streaming on various platforms.
Final Thoughts: A Fun and Heartwarming Sequel
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa offers a fun and heartwarming continuation of the Madagascar saga. With its engaging characters, vibrant animation, and humorous storylines, the film provides an entertaining experience for the whole family.
Whether you’re streaming on Amazon Prime Video or renting on Google Play, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa delivers an enjoyable adventure that builds on the charm of the original film.
From streaming on Amazon Prime Video to renting on Google Play, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa provides a lively and entertaining sequel with strong performances and colorful animation. It’s a great choice for family movie night and fans of the Madagascar series.
