If you’re an animated movie junkie, 2008 looks to be yet another exciting year with a few great laughs and amazing presentations from the major studios. 2008 calls for the release of The Smurfs, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar2 amongst others. Here are the top animated movie releases for 2008:
The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie
In Theaters: January 11, 2008
Veggie Tales mania continues with this Universal Pictures production about a pirate-themed restaurant that leaves the vegetables skipping work and heading back to the 17th century to fight in a real pirate adventure. It’s fun for the whole family, and will quickly become your kid’s favorite!
Horton Hears a Who
In Theaters: March 14, 2008
This Dr. Seuss story plays out in a computer animated version with Horton the elephant who discovers the city of Whoville. Horton does his very best to protect the Whos from danger, and keeps his commitment to being a loyal and valuable friend. Watch the Horton Hears a Who trailer for a Dr. Seuss refresher!
Kung Fu Panda
In Theaters: June 6, 2008
This animated movie tells us the story of Po the panda who learns martial arts after he realizes his home is under threat by enemies of the Valley of Peace. It’s set in ancient China. Jack Black plays the voice of Po. Watch the Kung Fu Panda trailer for a quick preview.
WALL-E
June 27, 2008
WALL-E is a robot from the year 2070 who has been appointed the job of cleaning up Earth as best he can. When he falls in love with a robot from a probe, he realizes he has to pursue his real passion in life. This animated movie may be Disney’s blockbuster for the year. Watch the WALL-E trailer for a taste of the fun ahead.
Igor
In theaters: October 24, 2008
This computer animated comedy features a hunchbacked lab assistant to a mad scientist, who plans to win the Evil Science Fair on his own. It’s a fun movie with plenty of twists and surprises to keep you interested. Star voices include Christian Slater, John Cleese, Molly Shannon, and Steve Buscemi.
The Smurfs Movie
In Theaters: November 2008
The Smurfs return from a long (too long) hiatus from the screen in this 3D computer animated version. It will be the first of a trilogy, so be prepared for even more Smurf fun in 2009. The entire team of blue guys-and Smurfette-will share some insights on life in this full-length feature film from Paramount Pictures. Watch the trailer for the Smurfs movie for a flashback to childhood!
Madagascar 2: The Crate Escape
In Theaters: November 7, 2008
All of your favorite characters from Madagascar are back in action as they explore Africa and learn the real meaning of home. Ben Stiller, Andy Richter, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Sacha Baron Cohen are just a few of the star voices for this sequel from Dreamworks Animation.
Walt Disney’s Bolt Movie 3D
Release Date: November 26, 2008
This family-friendly animated movie from Disney studios presents a dog who’s achieved success it the show business as a dog with superpowers, but suddenly gets abandoned in the Nevada desert. When he meets up with a couple of animal friends, he soon realizes that he doesn’t really have superpowers and is just a ‘normal’ dog. John Travolta, Woody Harrelson, and Bernie Mac are a few of the star voices in this one.
