by Haley Johnson
Like the first Alvin and the Chipmunks, I found this movie family friendly, and funny. In this movie, Alvin (Justin Long), Simon (Matthew Gray Gubler), and Theodore's (Jesse McCartney) legal guardian, Dave (Jason Lee), is hospitalized after a stage accident. I was disappointed that Lee had such a small role in this film. The chipmunks are then supposed to be in the care of their Aunt Jackie (Kathryn Joosten), and go to school, but she is also hospitalized in an accident. So the chipmunks are left with Aunt Jackie's grandson, Toby (Zachary Levi), which is a recipe for disaster! I was impressed by Levi's abilities. He really does a great job interacting with these animated characters.
They are sent off to endure high school. I found their experiences somewhat unrealistic. Once again I feel that Hollywood misrepresents a true high school experience, leading viewers to believe that high school is a place of torture.
I don't want to spoil the movie, although I must mention that the Chipettes are a great addition. You can't help but fall in love with these furry little creatures. As is true in most cases, the first movie was better than the sequel, although I still found it entertaining.
