'Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie' Review: Surprsingly refreshing and rather funny!


6.8/10

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is a fun pick for primary schoolers and up. Based on the hugely popular book series which I definitely loved (when I was said Primary schooler) by Dav Pilkey, the story follows two prank-loving best friends who hypnotize their angry principal into believing he's Captain Underpants, the hero of the boys' many comic books.

Based on the first book in the series, about a nearly naked superhero, this animated comedy is about friendship and is guaranteed to amuse the young kids in your life. You'll likely even laugh several times yourself, thanks to a rather good (unexpected) script and moments when the main characters break the fourth wall and talk directly to viewers. But here's the thing: You have to be OK with potty humor to enjoy Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie.

The good news is that there are also clear messages about the importance of friendship -- George and Harold realize that they don't have to be in the same class for their friendship to survive -- and empathy for others. The boys see Krupp in a new light as they learn more about his sad lonely life, and even though they can't help being amused by the professor's silly name, they acknowledge that it's wrong to laugh at someone for that reason alone. The voice actors are all well cast but none that really standout, the movie's mix of animation styles keeps things lively and unexpected. Plus, it offers a nice argument in favor of arts, music, and creativity in kids' education. It's never hard to guess where the story is headed, but, all in all, you could do far worse for an afternoon/night out at the movies. So amongst all the poop jokes there is a very important morale of the story. FRIENDSHIP!

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