Recess: School's Out (2001): Dir: Chuck Sheetz / Voices: James Woods, Dabney Coleman, Andy Lawrence, Melissa Joan Hart, Peter MacNicol: Based on the Saturday morning cartoon about the reckless boys of the school ground. Animation regarding freedom within its view of recess. School is closing for the summer but it is believed that an alien invasion is upon them when the principal disappears. This leads to a ridiculous climax. Director Chuck Sheetz does his best but the animation is on the same low level as South Park. James Wood voices Dr. Benedict wishes to take over the elementary school. Dabney Coleman voices the principal who tells of Benedict's nasty past. Those two adult characters actually carry their scenes effectively until the idiotic third act. The kids are elevated beyond a level one can identify. They throw themselves into danger that no normal kid would dare do and that isn't counting the implausible elements. Yes, this is a kids animation but certainly not the best in that league. Other voices include Andy Lawrence and Melissa Joan Hart who won't likely brag about this film on their next awards appearance. Although a message may exit, it seems more determined to sell a cartoon that had no quality to begin with. Children may enjoy this film but it is hardly engaging entertainment as oppose to something by Pixar. This animation has all the creativity of dog barf. Score: 3 / 10
Review of Recess: School's Out
