Adapted from the beloved children's novel of the same name, Mr Popper's Penguins modernises the original story written in 1938, transforming Mr Popper from a poor, small-town house painter and family man into a divorced, emotionless and wealthy New York real estate broker.
A contemporary tale for this century, this is no longer just the fun story of a man randomly sent a penguin by an explorer, which he looks after in his freezer icebox - although I hasten to add this does still happen. It's now the story of a man trying to reconnect with his estranged wife, kids, and distant father, and who must learn there's more to life than working and making money.
Carrey isn't at his mad and magical best as Mr Popper, maybe at 49 he's decided contorted facial movements and over-the-top antics are a bit silly, and his pleasant performance reflects the sweet tone of a family friendly film. He cavorts naturally with his penguin co-stars - actually he's quite delightful with them - as he transforms his spacious New York apartment into an icy winter wonderland. It's the silly moments when Carrey loosens up though, such
as when the Popper family undertakes a penguin heist at the local zoo, that you realise what you're missing.
The penguins should take credit for most of the good moments. They provide plenty of pooping and flatulence to send the young members of the audience into hysterics, and their distinct personalities and comedic timing give the accompanying adults something to help them through.
As is often the way with family films, the feel-good messages for the kids are obvious and too try-hard but, thanks to some amazingly well trained real life gentoo penguins, there's enough laughs to make Mr Popper's Penguins inoffensive fun tolerable for the whole family.
