THE CROODS: A NEW AGE (2020). Starring voices of Nicolas Cage, Catherine Keener, Ryan Reynolds, Emma Stone, Peter Dinklage, Leslie Mann, Cloris Leachman, Clark Duke, Kelly Marie Tran. Directed by Joel Crawford. 95 minutes. Rated PG (Mild themes, animated violence and coarse language)
In 2013, the original The Croods was a critical and entertainment success. It took its audience back into the capstone Age, the primitive family, their survival, success against any obstacle. (And there were memories of The Flintstones)
Seven years later comes this sequel. For those who admired the first film critically, this sequel is something of a disappointment. However, for the intended audience, children and families, the return of the eccentric characters, an immersion once again into the prehistoric age, adventures and obstacles, new enemies and battles, mean that it has been popular with the target audience.
The film connects with the original by introducing young Guy once again, going on a quest, sent by his parents, to find a new Tomorrow. Eventually, he encounters the Croods, the gruff father, Grug, his wife, Ugga, (voiced by Nicolas Cage and Catherine Keener). The harsh granny is present once again, full of screeching, having difficulties with her hair… (Cloris Leachman). However, Guy (Ryan Reynolds) is smitten by the family’s daughter, Eep (Emma Stone) quite a raucous young woman as well. There is also a baby as well as a rather obtuse younger brother, (Clark Duke). Grug is not eager for Eep to fall in love with Guy – especially as they plan to move away from the family. The family is everything – as can be seen when they defend themselves against a potential predator and when they all roll into a bundle for the night’s sleep.
However, the screenplay has the meeting a much more up-to-date family, the Bettermans (Peter Dinklage and Leslie Mann). They are a parody of contemporary sophisticates. They looked after Guy in the past and they have a daughter who was friends with Guy and whom they hope will marry him. Hence the potential for a lot of conflict as well as a lot of patronising of the cave family. There are all kinds of discoveries including Windows which offer an alternative to a television screen, saunas, all kinds of different food.
However, this peaceful life is interrupted by an attack of the enemies, a tribe of vicious monkeys – leading to all kinds of conflict and then reconciliation within the family is, ultimate victory. And happy ending romance, of course.
Colourful, full of action, eccentric characters, funny dialogue – especially popular for family audiences.
Universal
Released 26 December
Peter Malone MSC is an associate Jesuit Media