We first heard of America: The Motion Picture and got really excited. I’m not a historical stickler, I loved Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer. I can respect a movie that takes jabs at historical events, so I jumped on the chance to review this movie from Netflix. It seemed like a great way to get in the mood for the 4th of July!
As always, we will be reviewing this animated film on its Story, Acting, and Overall. So let’s make ‘Merica and do this already!
STORY: 2/10
One of the most confusing things about this movie, if it acts as if all time exists on one plane. All-time happening at one moment, everything that ever happened in America’s history. All occurred before/during the Revolutionary War. For these reasons, they are able to pull and pick from all and any moment or figure from U.S. history. Whatever character or point would help them tell their off-the-wall story, even if it didn’t make sense. Especially if it just seemed insane.
The other way to imagine the movie is someone verbally teaching a nine-year-old the main historical points and facts of U.S. history in one sitting, and then two months later sit the child down and asked him to recite the history of America in one sitting only from memory.
It doesn’t come off as charming. There are two specifically great lines that almost make the insanity worth it, I don’t want to ruin it, but one of the two is at the very end of the movie. At that point, it’s a little too late. It’s a dumb fun movie, but you’d really have to be in the mood for this film because it will infuriate you.
ACTING: 6/10
The voice work in this movie is actually the best part of the film. Channing Tatum is almost invisible in the role of George Washington, but incredibly well done. I love seeing Will Forte in another role. His work as Abraham Lincoln was enjoyable while also being frustrating.
Olivia Munn, Raoul Max Trujillo, Jason Mantzoukas, and Bobby Moynihan are perfect additions Channing Tatums scenes as each makes the characters their own. Specifically, I could listen to Jason Mantzoukas read me the phone book.
The biggest shock though was finding out that Andy Samberg did the voice of Benedict Arnold. Great vocal work.
OVERALL: 4/10
It literally bills itself as the true story of America, but to be honest, it should have been called “‘Merica: The Motion Picture.” It’s insane, off the wall, and enjoyable if you like gore and outlandish humor. I will also add that the animation style is very likable as well.
Conner’s Final Thought(s):
There are better films to watch for the 4th to be honest. It’s a time filler, it’s a dumb animated comedy. If you are looking for something to pass the time, then you can watch this film. However, know what you are getting into.
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