Woody Woodpecker

Woody Woodpecker (2017) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online

Woody Woodpecker (2017) is a live-action/CGI hybrid comedy film directed by Alex Zamm, featuring the beloved cartoon character who first appeared in the 1940s. Known for his signature laugh and mischievous antics, Woody Woodpecker has been a fan favorite for generations. The 2017 film brings the iconic character to life for a new audience, blending modern humor with the classic slapstick style that made Woody famous. While primarily targeted at younger viewers, the movie attempts to rekindle nostalgia for long-time fans. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s strengths and weaknesses, and tell you where you can stream or rent Woody Woodpecker online in the United States.

Plot Summary: Woody vs. The Developers

The story centers on Woody, an eccentric and hyperactive woodpecker who loves causing trouble, especially when someone invades his forest home. When city lawyer Lance Walters (Timothy Omundson) decides to build his dream vacation home in the Pacific Northwest, he unwittingly disrupts Woody’s territory. With the help of his son Tommy (Graham Verchere) and his fiancée Vanessa (Thaila Ayala), Lance sets out to demolish the woods and build a luxurious house.

However, Woody is determined to protect his forest, leading to a series of chaotic and comedic pranks that frustrate Lance and his construction crew. As the battle between man and bird escalates, Woody’s antics provide plenty of laughs, but the film also touches on themes of environmental conservation and the importance of preserving nature.

Why Woody Woodpecker (2017) Is a Mixed Experience

While Woody Woodpecker aims to entertain children and fans of the classic cartoon, it received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. Here are some key aspects of the movie:

1. Woody’s Classic Antics
   For fans of the original cartoons, Woody’s mischievous nature is faithfully recreated in the film. His pranks, physical comedy, and high-energy antics are reminiscent of the old-school slapstick humor that made him famous. Woody’s signature laugh (voiced by Eric Bauza) and his over-the-top behavior are highlights for younger viewers who enjoy zany comedy.
2. Visual Effects: CGI Meets Live Action
   Woody is brought to life using CGI, interacting with live-action characters and environments. The CGI animation is decent for a family movie of this scale, and Woody’s cartoonish design stands out against the live-action backdrop. The mix of live-action and animation creates a unique visual style, though some may find the CGI Woody a bit too exaggerated or out of place in certain scenes.
3. Aimed at Younger Audiences
   The film’s primary target audience is children, with much of the humor revolving around slapstick, pratfalls, and silly jokes. While the movie is lighthearted and harmless, it doesn’t offer much depth or sophistication for adult viewers. The storyline is simple and predictable, with a clear message about respecting nature and learning to coexist with wildlife.
4. Weak Storyline and Script
   One of the film’s biggest flaws is its weak storyline and script. The plot feels formulaic, with predictable character arcs and an over-reliance on Woody’s antics to carry the film. The human characters, particularly Lance and his family, are one-dimensional and lack significant development. The interactions between Woody and the human characters often feel forced, and the humor doesn’t always land, especially for older viewers.
5. Environmental Message
   Despite its comedic tone, Woody Woodpecker does touch on an important environmental message about the need to protect wildlife habitats. Woody’s efforts to defend his forest home from being destroyed serve as a reminder of the consequences of human encroachment on nature. This theme, while not deeply explored, adds a layer of relevance to the otherwise simple plot.

Where to Watch Woody Woodpecker (2017) Online in America

If you’re interested in watching Woody Woodpecker, whether for a fun family movie night or to introduce a new generation to the character, it’s available across several streaming and rental platforms. Here’s where you can find the movie online:

Streaming Services

1. Netflix
   Woody Woodpecker is available for streaming on Netflix in certain regions, though availability may vary depending on your location. Netflix is known for its wide range of family-friendly films, and the platform’s subscription plans start at $6.99 per month with ads, while the ad-free plan starts at $15.49 per month.
2. Peacock
   Another option is Peacock, where Woody Woodpecker is available to stream. Peacock offers both a free tier with ads and a premium plan for $5.99 per month, which includes ad-free content and additional movie options.

Rental and Purchase Options

1. Amazon Prime Video
   Woody Woodpecker is available to rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. The rental price is $3.99 in HD, and the purchase price is $14.99. If you’re not subscribed to any streaming services, this is a convenient way to watch the movie on demand.
2. Apple iTunes
   On Apple iTunes, you can rent the movie for $3.99 or buy it for $14.99. iTunes is a good option for Apple users, allowing you to stream the movie on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   Google Play offers Woody Woodpecker for rental at $3.99 and for purchase at $14.99. The movie is available for streaming on Android devices, Chromecast, or through the Google Play app.
4. Vudu
   Vudu also provides rental and purchase options. You can rent the movie for $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99. Vudu is known for its high-quality streaming and occasional promotions, so keep an eye out for deals.
5. YouTube Movies
   If you prefer watching movies on YouTube, you can rent Woody Woodpecker for $3.99 or buy it for $14.99 on YouTube Movies. This option is great for viewers who are already familiar with YouTube’s platform.

Conclusion

Woody Woodpecker (2017) is a lighthearted family movie that reintroduces the classic character to a new generation. With its fast-paced humor, slapstick comedy, and environmental message, the film is primarily aimed at younger audiences who will enjoy Woody’s chaotic antics. While it may not offer much for adults in terms of depth or storytelling, it succeeds in delivering fun and entertainment for children.

For those looking to watch the movie, Woody Woodpecker is readily available on streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock, as well as on-demand rental services such as Amazon Prime Video and Google Play. So, if you’re in the mood for a simple, fun-filled family movie, give Woody Woodpecker a try!