Alvin and the Chipmunks (film): Difference between revisions
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{{short description|2007 live-action animated film by Tim Hill}} |
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{{future film}} |
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{{use mdy dates|date=November 2016}} |
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{{Infobox Film |
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{{use American English|date=November 2023}} |
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{{Infobox film |
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| name = Alvin and the Chipmunks |
| name = Alvin and the Chipmunks |
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| image = Alvin and the |
| image = Alvin and the Chipmunks2007.jpg |
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| alt = <!-- See WP:ALT --> |
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| caption = Theatrical release poster |
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| director = [[Tim Hill (director)|Tim Hill]] |
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| screenplay = {{plainlist| |
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* [[Jon Vitti]] |
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| starring = [[Jason Lee (actor)|Jason Lee]]<br>[[Ross Bagdasarian, Jr.]]<br>[[Janice Karman]]<br>[[David Cross]]<br>[[Cameron Richardson]]<br>[[Jane Lynch]]<br>[[Celestina Aladekoba|Celestina]]<br>[[Kevin Symons]] |
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* [[Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi|Will McRobb<br>Chris Viscardi]] |
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| music = |
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}} |
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| story = Jon Vitti |
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| based_on = {{based on|[[Alvin and the Chipmunks]]|[[Ross Bagdasarian Sr.]]}} |
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| producer = {{plainlist| |
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* [[Janice Karman]] |
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* [[Ross Bagdasarian Jr.]] |
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}} |
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| starring ={{plainlist|<!--- Per poster billing. ---> |
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* [[Jason Lee (actor)|Jason Lee]] |
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* [[David Cross]] |
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* [[Cameron Richardson]] |
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* [[Justin Long]] |
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* [[Matthew Gray Gubler]] |
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* [[Jesse McCartney]] |
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}} |
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| music = [[Christopher Lennertz]] |
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| cinematography = [[Peter Lyons Collister]] |
| cinematography = [[Peter Lyons Collister]] |
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| editing = [[Peter E. Berger]] |
| editing = [[Peter E. Berger]] |
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| studio = {{plainlist| |
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| distributor = [[20th Century Fox]] |
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* [[Fox 2000 Pictures]]<ref name="afi">{{cite web |url=https://catalog.afi.com/Catalog/moviedetails/64130 |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) |work=[[AFI Catalog of Feature Films]] |access-date=June 20, 2018 |archive-date=September 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920212438/https://catalog.afi.com/Catalog/moviedetails/64130 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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| released = [[December 14]], [[2007 in film|2007]] |
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* [[Regency Enterprises]]<ref name="afi" /> |
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| runtime = |
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* [[Dune Entertainment]]<ref name="bfi" /> |
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| country = {{flagicon|USA}} |
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* [[Bagdasarian Productions]]<ref name="bfi">{{cite web |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) |url=https://www2.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/4ce2b8c543d5e |website=[[British Film Institute|BFI]] |access-date=December 13, 2020 |archive-date=August 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809084136/https://www.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/4ce2b8c543d5e |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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| language = [[English language|English]] |
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| budget = $70 million |
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| gross = |
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| website = http://alvinandthechipmunksmovie.com/ |
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| amg_id = 1:387020 |
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| imdb_id = 0952640 |
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}} |
}} |
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| distributor = [[20th Century Fox]]<ref name="afi" /> |
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| released = {{film date|2007|12|14}} |
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| runtime = 92 minutes<ref name="afi" /> |
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| country = United States<ref name="afi" /> |
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| language = English |
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| budget = $60 million<ref name="mojo">{{cite web |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=alvinandthechipmunks.htm |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks |website=[[Box Office Mojo]] |access-date=19 April 2018 |archive-date=July 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190728104056/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=alvinandthechipmunks.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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| gross = $361.3 million<ref name="mojo" /> |
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}} |
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'''''Alvin and the Chipmunks''''' is a 2007 American [[Live-action animated film|live-action/animated]] [[jukebox musical]] [[comedy film]] directed by [[Tim Hill (director)|Tim Hill]] from a screenplay by [[Jon Vitti]] and the writing team of [[Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi]]. It is the first installment in the [[Alvin and the Chipmunks in film|live-action film series]] of [[Alvin and the Chipmunks]]. The plot follows chipmunks Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, who move in with struggling songwriter [[Dave Seville]] after losing their home. When Dave discovers their singing talent, he introduces them to JETT Records executive Ian Hawke, whose plans threaten the chipmunks' newfound family dynamic. The cast includes [[Jason Lee (actor)|Jason Lee]], [[David Cross]], and [[Cameron Richardson]], with voices by [[Justin Long]], [[Matthew Gray Gubler]] and [[Jesse McCartney]].<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://mubi.com/en/in/films/alvin-and-the-chipmunks |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) {{!}} MUBI |language=en |access-date=2024-08-08 |via=mubi.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Service |first=-Synopsis courtesy of Tribune Media |date=2007-12-14 |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks |url=https://www.roccitymag.com/rochester/alvin-and-the-chipmunks/Film?oid=2237046 |access-date=2024-08-08 |website=CITY Magazine |language=en}}</ref> |
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Development began in 1997 when [[Ross Bagdasarian Jr.]] expressed interest in creating a live-action film. The project saw multiple changes before it was officially announced in September 2004 as a collaboration between [[Fox 2000 Pictures]], [[20th Century Fox Animation]], and [[Bagdasarian Productions]]. The animation for the film was handled by [[Rhythm & Hues Studios]], which studied real chipmunks and previous versions of the characters to design CGI models that retained the original essence. The integration of CGI with live-action footage required match-moving techniques and advanced visual effects software.<ref name = "AWN">{{cite web |last=Wolff|first=Ellen |date=December 14, 2007 |url= https://www.awn.com/vfxworld/alvin-and-chipmunks-critter-christmas|title='Alvin and the Chipmunks': A Critter Christmas|website=[[Animation World Network]]| access-date= December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103221316/https://www.awn.com/vfxworld/alvin-and-chipmunks-critter-christmas|url-status=live}}</ref> The music was composed by [[Christopher Lennertz]]. The film is dedicated in the memory of [[Ross Bagdasarian]], creator of the Chipmunks. |
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'''''Alvin and the Chipmunks''''' is an upcoming [[live-action]]/[[computer animation|computer-animated]] film, based on the popular [[musical group]] [[Alvin and the Chipmunks (music)|Alvin and the Chipmunks]] (and, in several ways, [[Alvin and the Chipmunks (TV series)|the animated series of the same name]]). It is being directed by [[Tim Hill]] and being produced by [[Bagdasarian Productions]], [[New Regency Productions]], and [[20th Century Fox]]. It is currently scheduled for theatrical release on [[December 14]], [[2007]]. |
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''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' was released in the United States on December 14, 2007, by [[20th Century Fox]]. The film received generally negative reviews from critics, who criticized the film's humor and "rehashed kids' movie formula", while Cross' performance as the villain received general praise.<ref name="rt">{{cite web | work=Rotten Tomatoes | title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) | url=http://uk.rottentomatoes.com/m/1184827-alvin_and_the_chipmunks/ | access-date=18 January 2008 | archive-date=June 30, 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100630150430/http://uk.rottentomatoes.com/m/1184827-alvin_and_the_chipmunks/ | url-status=dead }}</ref> It grossed $361.3 million worldwide against a $60 million budget<ref name="mtv" /><ref name=mojo/> and was the third best-selling [[DVD]] of 2008 in the United States.<ref name="DVD">{{cite web|url=https://www.the-numbers.com/home-market/dvd-sales/2008 |title=Top-Selling DVD Titles in the United States 2008|publisher=[[The Numbers (website)|The Numbers]]|access-date=27 September 2024}}</ref> The film was followed by three sequels: ''[[Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel]]'' (2009), ''[[Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked]]'' (2011), and ''[[Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip]]'' (2015).<ref>{{cite web|last=Kit|first=Borys|title='Alvin and the Chipmunks 4' Finds a Director (Exclusive)|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/alvin-chipmunks-4-finds-a-758855|work=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=December 18, 2014|date=December 18, 2014|archive-date=January 25, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150125100623/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/alvin-chipmunks-4-finds-a-758855|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Plot== |
==Plot== |
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<!-- Per WP:FILMPLOT, the plot summary should be 400-700 words. --> |
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The story begins when struggling songwriter, Dave Seville ([[Jason Lee (entertainer)|Jason Lee]]) gets his world turned upside-down by a trio of talking and singing [[chipmunk]]s formed by Alvin (voiced by [[Justin Long]]), Simon ([[Matthew Gray Gubler]]), and Theodore (voiced by [[Jesse McCartney]]), who soon become instant stars. |
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Talking [[chipmunk]] brothers [[Alvin, Simon, and Theodore]] reside in a [[fir tree]], which is cut down and driven to Los Angeles after [[record label]] JETT Records purchases it as a [[Christmas tree]]. Meanwhile, struggling songwriter [[Dave Seville]] has his latest [[demo (music)|demo]] rejected by their chief executive [[Ian Hawke]], who suggests that Dave should quit writing songs. Dave steals a muffin basket from one of Ian's subordinates and heads home; the Chipmunks, finding themselves in the same building, leave the tree and hop into the basket. |
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Finding the Chipmunks in his home, a shocked Dave initially forces them to leave. When he hears them sing "[[Only You (And You Alone)]]" and "[[Funkytown]]", Dave makes a deal with the Chipmunks to sing his songs in exchange for food and shelter. That night, Dave writes a song for them. The next day, Dave plays his [[piano]] and the Chipmunks practice Dave's song, "[[Christmas Don't Be Late]]". However, when Dave tries to present the Chipmunks to Ian, the Chipmunks fail to sing because of [[stage fright]]. The day worsens as Dave is fired from his marketing job due to the Chipmunks having unknowingly ruined his presentation boards. While hosting dinner with former girlfriend Claire, Dave struggles to hide the Chipmunks after Alvin attempts to create a romantic atmosphere, causing an uncomfortable Claire to leave. To make amends, the Chipmunks sing Dave's song in Ian's lavish mansion, prompting Ian to sign a [[record deal]] and restore the songwriting career of Dave, now the Chipmunks' manager. |
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The Chipmunks quickly become an international sensation, further solidified after a successful performance of "[[Witch Doctor (song)|Witch Doctor]]". Dave, concerned for their wellbeing, insists the Chipmunks are too young to handle fame, but Ian convinces them Dave reduces their success. After a misunderstanding and reading an old letter Dave wrote, the Chipmunks decide to live with Ian, who exploits their [[naivety]] by overworking them constantly. When Ian's plan to take the Chipmunks on a twelve-month international tour is revealed on the news, Dave decides to infiltrate their concert at the [[Orpheum Theatre (Los Angeles)|Orpheum Theatre]] to get them back. When Dave manages to sneak in with Claire's help, the Chipmunks hear Dave calling and realize that Ian has tricked them; they decide to sabotage the show by causing chaos onstage. Dave is stopped by security as Ian locks the Chipmunks in a cage, preparing for their concert in Paris. Ian escapes in his limousine with Dave [[car chase|pursuing after him]]. Despite losing Ian, Dave finds the Chipmunks in his car. As Dave and the Chipmunks reconcile, Ian discovers their escape, which ultimately results in the collapse of his career and financial ruin. |
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<!--Per [[MOS:FILMPLOT]], the mid-credits and post-credits scenes should only be added given their relevance to other scenes. DO NOT add mid- or post-credit scenes without prior consensus--> |
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==Cast== |
==Cast== |
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{{multiple image |
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*[[Jason Lee (entertainer)|Jason Lee]] as David "Dave" Seville |
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| total_width = 450 |
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*[[Justin Long]] as Alvin Seville (voice) |
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| direction = horizontal |
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*[[Matthew Gray Gubler]] as Simon Seville (voice) |
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| align = right |
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*[[Jesse McCartney]] as Theodore Seville (voice) |
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| footer = ({{abbr|L|Left}} to {{abbr|R|right}}) [[Jason Lee (actor)|Jason Lee]] (pictured in 2015), [[David Cross]] (2019), and [[Cameron Richardson]] (2018) |
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*[[David Cross]] as Ian Hawke, the music producer |
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| image1 = Jason lee cropped lighting corrected.jpg |
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*[[Cameron Richardson]] as Claire Hanson, Dave's crush |
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| image2 = David Cross (32840211217) (cropped).jpg |
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*[[Jane Lynch]] as Gail |
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| image3 = CameronRichardson.jpg |
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*[[Celestina Aladekoba|Celestina]] as [[Witch Doctor (song)|Witch Doctor]] Back-Up Singer |
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}} |
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*[[Kevin Symons]] as Ted |
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* [[Justin Long]] as Alvin (speaking voice) |
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** [[Ross Bagdasarian Jr.]] as Alvin (singing voice) |
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* [[Matthew Gray Gubler]] as Simon (speaking voice) |
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** [[Steve Vining]] as Simon (singing voice)<ref name="MCV">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/movie/alvin-and-the-chipmunks/credits/|publisher=[[Metacritic]]|access-date=16 October 2024|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks credits}}</ref> |
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* [[Jesse McCartney]] as Theodore (speaking voice) |
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** [[Janice Karman]] as Theodore (singing voice) |
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* [[Jason Lee]] as [[David "Dave" Seville]], a struggling songwriter and adoptive father figure to Alvin, Simon and Theodore |
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* [[David Cross]] as [[Ian Hawke]], the CEO of JETT Records |
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* [[Cameron Richardson]] as Claire Wilson, a photographer and Dave's ex-girlfriend<ref>{{cite web |date=2007-11-08 |title=Forget the Chipmunks, Give me More Cameron Richardson |url=http://www.beyondhollywood.com/gallery/forget-the-chipmunks-give-me-more-cameron-richardson/ |work=BeyondHollywood.com |accessdate=2009-10-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071109122156/http://www.beyondhollywood.com/gallery/forget-the-chipmunks-give-me-more-cameron-richardson/ |archive-date=2007-11-09 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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*[[Jane Lynch]] as Gail, an advertising executive and Dave's ex-boss |
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== Production == |
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==Additional notes== |
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===Origin and development === |
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{{Trivia|date=December 2007}} |
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[[File:Ross Bagdasarian 1972.jpg|thumb|[[Ross Bagdasarian]] in 1972]] |
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*Another version of "[[Witch Doctor (song)|Witch Doctor]]" was made for the film.{{Fact|date=November 2007}} |
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In 1958, [[Ross Bagdasarian]] (using the pseudonym [[David Seville]]) experimented with speed-altered vocals to create "[[Witch Doctor (song)|Witch Doctor]]", a [[novelty song]] about asking for love advice from a [[witch doctor]].<ref name="Oxford">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=C1wFCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA132 |title=The Oxford Handbook of Music and Virtuality|date=2016 |page=132 |isbn=9780199321285 |publisher=Oxford University Press }}</ref> Its success, which included topping the [[Billboard charts]],<ref name="Oxford"/> inspired Bagdasarian to apply the recording technique to create The Chipmunks: Alvin, Simon, and Theodore.<ref name="BI"/><ref>{{Cite news|title=Animation Anecdotes #104|url=https://cartoonresearch.com/index.php/animation-anecdotes-104/|last=Korkis|first=Jim|date=2013-04-05|access-date=2021-12-19|work=Cartoon Research}}</ref> Their debut song "[[The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)]]" sold over 4 million copies and won multiple [[Grammy Awards]].<ref>{{cite web|last=O'Neil|first=Tom|url=http://goldderby.latimes.com/awards_goldderby/2009/05/today-in-1958-first-grammy-awards-handed-out-.html|title=Today in 1959: First Grammy Awards handed out|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|date=4 May 2009|access-date=29 Nov 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2023/12/23/chipmunk-song-christmas-david-seville/|access-date=28 October 2024 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|title=How 'The Chipmunk Song' became an unlikely Christmas megahit}}</ref> This popularity led to the first animated show, ''[[The Alvin Show]]'', airing in 1961. After Bagdasarian's death, his son [[Ross Bagdasarian Jr.]] revived the Chipmunks with [[A Chipmunk Christmas|a successful Christmas special]] in 1981.<ref name="BI">{{cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-history-2015-12#rostom-sipan-ross-bagdasarian-was-an-actor-and-musician-known-for-his-appearance-in-alfred-hitchcocks-rear-window-he-was-making-novelty-records-in-the-late-50s-when-he-bought-a-tape-recorder-that-allowed-him-to-vary-tape-speed-and-released-the-song-witch-doctor-in-1958-it-reached-no-1-1|publisher=[[Business Insider]]|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks History|access-date=13 November 2024}}</ref> |
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*Jason Lee is the third man to portray [[David Seville]], succeeding [[Ross Bagdasarian Jr.]] and [[Ross Bagdasarian Sr.]] Bagdasarian, Jr. would have portrayed David Seville, but a much younger actor was needed (he is 58, and Jason Lee is 37). {{Fact|date=November 2007}} |
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*The address at Dave's apartment is 1958, which is the year that the classic hits "[[The Chipmunk Song]]" and "[[Witch Doctor]]" was released.{{Fact|date=November 2007}} |
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*In the teaser trailer, Dave says Alvin's name three times, but yells it when he says it the third time. This is a reference to [[The Chipmunk Song]] Christmas (Don't Be Late). |
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*In one TV spot, Theodore states that he likes coffee. |
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*This is the third movie to have Jason Lee shaved. |
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Ross Bagdasarian Jr. dreamed of making a live-action film since 1997 "and the dream has had many nightmare moments".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/Movies/Features/A-Chipmunk-Interview-part-1-20081201|title=A Chipmunk Interview – part 1|date=December 27, 2007|work=Channel 24|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210050/https://www.channel24.co.za/Movies/Features/A-Chipmunk-Interview-part-1-20081201|archive-date=3 January 2020|access-date=December 22, 2019}}</ref> In June 1997, [[Robert Zemeckis]] was assigned to direct a live action adaptation with [[Steven Spielberg]] producing with [[Universal Pictures]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=1997-06-19 |title=Santa Maria Times from Santa Maria, California |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/447049143/ |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en-US}}</ref> but the project was put on hold after the estate of Ross Bagdasarian Sr. filed a lawsuit against Universal in September 2000, claiming the studio had failed to properly license products featuring Alvin and his singing companions.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2000-09-12 |title=Family of Chipmunks' Originator Files Suit Against Universal Studios |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2000-sep-12-fi-19557-story.html |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}}</ref> In September 2004, [[Fox 2000 Pictures]], [[20th Century Fox Animation]] and Bagdasarian Productions announced they would collaborate to create a live-action computer-generated film starring Alvin and the Chipmunks.<ref name="Variety2">{{cite web|last=Brodesser|first=Claude|date=September 14, 2004|url=https://variety.com/2004/film/markets-festivals/alvin-to-squeak-again-1117910455/|title='Alvin' to squeak again|work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|access-date=December 21, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210833/https://variety.com/2004/film/markets-festivals/alvin-to-squeak-again-1117910455/|url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2005, [[Jon Vitti]], writer of ''[[The Simpsons]]'', was revealed to be writing the screenplay.<ref>{{cite web|last=Brodesser|first=Claude|date=April 17, 2005|url=https://variety.com/2005/film/news/fox-animation-ups-cohen-1117921226/|title=Fox Animation ups Cohen|work=Variety|access-date=December 21, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210757/https://variety.com/2005/film/news/fox-animation-ups-cohen-1117921226/|url-status=live}}</ref> In January 2007, it was announced [[Tim Hill (director)|Tim Hill]], former writer of ''[[Rocko's Modern Life]]'' and ''[[SpongeBob SquarePants]]'', was in talks with Fox to direct the film, having previously directed ''[[Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=LaPorte|first=Nicole|date=January 24, 2007|url=https://variety.com/2007/scene/markets-festivals/hill-to-direct-chipmunks-1117958050/|title=Hill to direct 'Chipmunks'|work=Variety|access-date=December 21, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210101/https://variety.com/2007/scene/markets-festivals/hill-to-direct-chipmunks-1117958050/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Soundtrack== |
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{{main|Alvin and the Chipmunks: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack}} |
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The soundtrack is due out [[November 20]], [[2007]], three weeks before the film's opening and will contain new versions of most Chipmunk songs. |
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=== Pre-production === |
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==See also== |
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[[Chevy Chase]], [[Tim Allen]], [[John Travolta]], and [[Bill Murray]] were originally considered for the role of David Seville.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Evans |first1=Bradford |title=The Lost Roles of Chevy Chase |url=https://www.vulture.com/2011/09/the-lost-roles-of-chevy-chase.html |magazine=[[New York (magazine)|New York]] |date=22 September 2011 |access-date=December 6, 2020 |archive-date=June 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200608015626/https://www.vulture.com/2011/09/the-lost-roles-of-chevy-chase.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Evans |first1=Bradford |title=The Lost Roles of Tim Allen |url=https://www.vulture.com/amp/2011/10/the-lost-roles-of-tim-allen.html |magazine=[[New York (magazine)|New York]] |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=December 10, 2020 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118025942/https://www.vulture.com/amp/2011/10/the-lost-roles-of-tim-allen.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Evans |first1=Bradford |title=The Lost Roles of Bill Murray, Part Two |url=https://www.vulture.com/amp/2012/02/the-lost-roles-of-bill-murray-part-two.html |magazine=[[New York (magazine)|New York]] |date=16 February 2012 |access-date=December 10, 2020 |archive-date=February 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222155216/https://www.vulture.com/amp/2012/02/the-lost-roles-of-bill-murray-part-two.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2007, [[Jason Lee (actor)|Jason Lee]] joined the project to play David Seville,<ref>{{cite web |last=Bruno |first=Mike |title=Jason Lee to star in Chipmunks movie |work=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=March 13, 2007 |access-date=2024-12-24 |url=https://ew.com/article/2007/03/13/jason-lee-star-chipmunks-movie/}}</ref> and [[Cameron Richardson]] joining that month to play Claire.<ref>{{cite web|last=Dodd|first=Stacy|date=March 21, 2007|url=https://variety.com/2007/scene/markets-festivals/cameron-richardson-2-1117961581/|title=Cameron Richardson|work=Variety|access-date=December 21, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210039/https://variety.com/2007/scene/markets-festivals/cameron-richardson-2-1117961581/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Patton Oswalt]] and [[Brian Posehn]] were approached to play Ian Hawke but all declined.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vulture.com/amp/2011/12/the-lost-roles-of-patton-oswalt.html|title=The Lost Roles of Patton Oswalt|date=December 8, 2011|access-date=July 21, 2021|archive-date=July 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718204047/https://www.vulture.com/amp/2011/12/the-lost-roles-of-patton-oswalt.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Justin Long]], [[Matthew Gray Gubler]] and [[Jesse McCartney]] voiced the Chipmunks, replacing Bagdasarian Jr. and his wife [[Janice Karman]], who had voiced the chipmunks since they revived the franchise.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1047080/alvin-chipmunks-stay-in-the-family|title=Alvin, Chipmunks Stay In The Family|date=December 11, 2007|magazine=Billboard|access-date=December 27, 2019}}</ref> For recording, the chipmunk voice actors spoke their lines slowly to be sped up to normal speed in post-production; McCartney described it as a "tedious process", where "it could take 40 takes for one line." He owned the album ''[[Chipmunk Punk]]'' (1980) and studied [[Alvin and the Chipmunks (1983 TV series)|1980s ''Alvin'' cartoons]] for his role in the film.<ref name = "seventeen">{{cite web|last=Eisinger|first=Amy|date=March 20, 2008|url=https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/q-and-a/a1779/jesse-mccartney-qa-chipmunks/|title=Jesse McCartney|work=[[Seventeen (American magazine)|Seventeen]]|access-date=December 26, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210059/https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/q-and-a/a1779/jesse-mccartney-qa-chipmunks/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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*[[Alvin and the Chipmunks (video game)]] |
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===Filming=== |
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[[File:SunsetGowerStudios Dec2006.jpg|thumb|Dave Seville's house was built on [[Sunset Gower Studios]] (pictured).]] |
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[[Principal photography]] began on March 28, 2007,<ref>{{cite web|last=Grove|first=Chris|date=March 8, 2007|url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/features/earl-meets-the-chipmunks/|title=Earl Meets the Chipmunks|work=[[Animation Magazine]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103212241/https://www.animationmagazine.net/features/earl-meets-the-chipmunks/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Sperling|first=Nicole|date=March 8, 2007|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/alvin-lee-pops-chipmunks-131572|title=Alvin!!!!! Lee pops for 'Chipmunks'|work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210038/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/alvin-lee-pops-chipmunks-131572|url-status=live}}</ref> with filming taking place primarily in areas of Los Angeles.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kibskbov.com/2021/03/mono-in-the-movies-alvin-the-chipmunks/#:~:text=Movies%20in%20the%20Movies%20is,Updated%20information%20is%20welcomed.|title=MONO IN THE MOVIES – ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS|date=March 24, 2021 |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> Seville's house was built on [[Sunset Gower Studios]] in Hollywood, and contains references to Bagdasarian Sr.'s life. The set pieces included an [[upright piano]] he used to write his songs and a flower visual he painted; the house's address number includes 1958, the year he created the chipmunk characters; and the house design is based on a cottage built in 1919, the year Bagdasarian Sr. was born.<ref name = "LAtimespro">{{cite web|last=Rosen|first=Lisa|date=November 4, 2007|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-nov-04-ca-alvin4-story.html|title=Out of thin air|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|access-date=December 27, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210039/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-nov-04-ca-alvin4-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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In shots where human characters interacted with the chipmunks, the actors rehearsed with small stuffed animals indicating where the chipmunks would be; the animals were then removed when it was time to shoot, and the actors used their memory of where the animals were.<ref name = "AWN"/> In the mid-credits scene where Ian tries to get squirrels to sing, the actor and the animals were filmed separately. Using nuts, a trainer would bait squirrels in order to get them to turn their heads in different directions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://humanehollywood.org/production/alvin-and-the-chipmunks/|publisher=Humane Hollywood|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks - Humane Hollywood|access-date=13 November 2024}}</ref> |
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=== Visual effects and animation === |
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The Chipmunks were animated by [[visual effects]] company [[Rhythm & Hues Studios]],<ref>{{cite book|chapter-url= https://dl.acm.org/doi/pdf/10.1145/1400468.1400537|access-date=13 November 2024|publisher=[[ACM Digital Library]]|chapter=Rhythm & Hues 2007 Feature Film Work|doi=10.1145/1400468.1400537 |title=ACM SIGGRAPH 2008 computer animation festival |date=2008 |last1=Byrd |first1=Scot |pages=94–95 |isbn=978-1-60558-345-7 }}</ref> who previously animated creatures for projects such as ''[[Babe (film)|Babe]]'' (1995), ''[[Mouse Hunt]]'' (1997), ''[[Scooby-Doo (film)|Scooby-Doo]]'' (2002), ''[[The Cat in the Hat (film)|The Cat in the Hat]]'' (2003), and ''[[The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe]]'' (2005), the lattermost of which garnered Rhythm & Hues an [[Academy Award]].<ref name = "AWN"/> As with past projects, Rhythm & Hues used its own software for animating ''Alvin and the Chipmunks''. Programs Voodoo and Icy were used for placing the CGI into live-action shots,<ref name = "AWN"/> with [[Autodesk]] programs like [[Autodesk Flame|Flame]] and [[Autodesk Maya|Maya]] used as well.<ref>{{cite web |last= Ball| first=Ryan| date=December 21, 2007 |url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/vfx/autodesk-behind-holiday-blockbusters/|title=Autodesk Behind Holiday Blockbusters |work= Animation Magazine| access-date=December 24, 2019| archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200103212105/https://www.animationmagazine.net/vfx/autodesk-behind-holiday-blockbusters/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://assets.adg.org/media/members/2020-04-07_15-00-18/Libutti_Angelo_CV_July_21._2019_.pdf|title=ANGELO LUBUTTI|access-date=13 November 2024}}</ref> |
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[[File:Tamias minimus.jpg|thumb|left|Real-life [[chipmunks]] were studied and integrated into Ross Bagdasarian Sr.'s characters.]] |
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According to Bagdasarian Jr., getting the look of the chipmunks suited for a live-action setting while maintaining the essence of the cartoon designs was challenging, and it took until September 2006 for the artists to get it right.<ref>{{cite web|last=Garfinkel|first=Jacki|date=September 11, 2006|url=https://www.mediavillage.com/article/alvin-simon-and-theodore-are-coming-back/|title=Alvin, Simon and Theodore are Coming Back|website=Media Village|access-date=December 21, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210043/https://www.mediavillage.com/article/alvin-simon-and-theodore-are-coming-back/|url-status=live}}</ref> Hill instructed the artists to make the chipmunks look realistic, but not entirely like chipmunks.<ref name = "AWN"/> In addition to observing real chipmunks offered by [[Universal Studios Inc.]], Rhythm & Hues studied all versions of the chipmunk characters from past ''Alvin'' media for conceiving, fur-texturing, and animating designs for the film.<ref name = "AWN"/> Human dancers were referenced for animating the dance movements of the chipmunks, and [[YouTube]] videos of famous guitarists playing the guitar influenced how Alvin's guitar-playing was animated.<ref name = "AWN"/> [[High-dynamic-range images]] of sets were also used for lighting the chipmunks to fit the live-action shots.<ref name = "AWN"/> The most difficult part of integrating the chipmunks in the shots was [[match moving]] for instances when they climb on Seville's head.<ref name = "AWN"/> For scenes where the chipmunks interacted with props, some were live-action props while others, such as a [[paper airplane]], were produced and animated.<ref name = "AWN"/> |
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==Music== |
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{{Main|Alvin and the Chipmunks (soundtrack)}} |
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The soundtrack was released in November 2007, featuring songs such as "[[Witch Doctor (song)|Witch Doctor]]" and "[[The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)]]" (as made famous by [[David Seville]] and [[the Chipmunks]]), cover versions of songs such as "[[Bad Day (Daniel Powter song)|Bad Day]]" (as made famous by [[Daniel Powter]]) and "[[Funkytown]]" (as made famous by [[Lipps Inc.]]), and original songs such as "Coast 2 Coast", "Get You Goin'" and "Get Munk'd".<ref>{{Cite magazine |author=Billboard Staff |date=2007-12-11 |title=Alvin, Chipmunks Stay In The Family |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/alvin-chipmunks-stay-in-the-family-1047080/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102202729/https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/alvin-chipmunks-stay-in-the-family-1047080/ |archive-date=2023-11-02 |access-date=2024-06-11 |magazine=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=The Chipmunks |author-link=Alvin and the Chipmunks |date=2007-11-20 |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) |url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-original-motion/1440927044 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211226002937/https://music.apple.com/us/album/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-original-motion/1440927044 |archive-date=2021-12-26 |access-date=2024-06-11 |publisher=[[Apple Music]]}}</ref> Four songs from the album charted on the [[Billboard Hot 100|''Billboard'' Hot 100]].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Hasty|first=Katie|date=April 9, 2008|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1045912/strait-speeds-past-rem-to-debut-at-no-1|title=Strait Speeds Past R.E.M. To Debut At No. 1|magazine=Billboard|access-date=December 27, 2019}}</ref> The album has been [[RIAA certification#Records|certified Platinum]] by the [[Recording Industry Association of America]] for shipments of over one million copies, thereby becoming the Chipmunks' third Platinum album, sixth RIAA-certified album and the first since ''[[Chipmunks in Low Places]]'' (which also went Platinum).<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1045891/chart-shakers|title=Chart Shakers|magazine=Billboard|date=April 10, 2008|access-date=December 27, 2019}}</ref> The film's original score was composed and conducted by [[Christopher Lennertz]].<ref>"A Note From The Composer," liner notes, score album, La-La Land Records LLLCD 1077</ref> La-La Land Records released a limited edition album in September 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.soundtrack.net/album/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-original-score/|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks - Original Score (2007)|publisher=[[Soundtrack.Net]]|access-date=September 27, 2024}}</ref><!-- Infobox, tracklist and charts were all featured in the soundtrack article --> |
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== Release == |
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===Predictions and marketing=== |
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[[File:Open videothek - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Interior of a [[video shop]] in [[Berlin]] with an ''Alvin'' film poster ''(bottom left)'']] |
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Months before its release, film bloggers anticipated that ''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' would be a failure due to the involvement of the director of ''[[Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties]]'' (2006),<ref name = "vespemar">{{cite web|last=Vespe|first=Eric|date=March 8, 2007|url=http://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/31805|title=Oh God, Jason Lee why? ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS movie from the mind-blowing talents behind the GARFIELD movie sequel?!?|website=[[Ain't It Cool News]]|access-date=December 27, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210923/http://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/31805|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name = "Slashposter">{{cite web|last=Sciretta|first=Peter|date=July 3, 2007|url=https://www.slashfilm.com/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-movie-poster/|title=Alvin and The Chipmunks Movie Poster|work=[[/Film]]|access-date=December 27, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210135/https://www.slashfilm.com/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-movie-poster/|url-status=live}}</ref> the writers of ''[[Snow Day (2000 film)|Snow Day]]'' (2000), the [[Ice Age (franchise)#Films|''Ice Age'' films]], ''[[Robots (2005 film)|Robots]]'' (2005), ''[[Big Momma's House 2]]'' (2006),<ref name = "Slashposter"/> and the poor quality of previous live-action adaptations of old cartoons.<ref name = "vespemar"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefilmfile.com/reviews/a/07_alvinandthechipmunks.htm|title=Dustin Putman's Review - Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) - [TheMovieBoy]|access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> In an August 2007 survey of 750 American teens ran by [[eCRUSH]] and OTX, ''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' was one of the most anticipated films of the 2007 fall and winter seasons in the group.<ref>{{cite web|last=Schiller|first=Gail|date=August 27, 2007|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/study-tv-trailers-keep-teens-148820|title=Study: TV, trailers keep teens tuned to movies|work=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210042/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/study-tv-trailers-keep-teens-148820|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Alvin and the Chipmunks (video game)|A video game adaptation]] was developed by [[Sensory Sweep Studios]] for [[Brash Entertainment]] and released on December 4, 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Scan of back cover|url=http://img.gamefaqs.net/box/6/3/4/90634_back.jpg|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151128201134/http://img.gamefaqs.net/box/6/3/4/90634_back.jpg|archive-date=November 28, 2015}}</ref> |
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===Home media=== |
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The film was released on [[DVD]] and Blu-ray on April 1, 2008.<ref>{{cite web |date=21 December 2008 |title=Everything You Need to Know About Alvin and the Chipmunks Movie (2007) |url=https://www.movieinsider.com/m2008/alvin-and-the-chipmunks |access-date=27 September 2024}}</ref> This release sold 7.5 million DVD units ($127.6 million) in total becoming the third-best-selling DVD of 2008 in the United States, behind only ''[[The Dark Knight]]'' and ''[[Iron Man (2008 film)|Iron Man]]''.<ref name="DVD" /> |
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=== Box office === |
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''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' was released in the United States and Canada on December 14, 2007. The film grossed $44.3 million in 3,475 theaters its opening weekend averaging to about $12,750 per venue, placing second at the box office behind ''[[I Am Legend (film)|I Am Legend]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Sperling|first=Nicole|title=''I Am Legend'' sets record|url=https://ew.com/article/2007/12/17/i-am-legend-sets-record/|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=November 18, 2022|date=December 17, 2007}}</ref><ref name="bom">{{cite web |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?page=weekend&id=alvinandthechipmunks.htm |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) - Weekend Box Office Results |access-date=December 16, 2007 |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |archive-date=December 9, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081209084543/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?page=weekend&id=alvinandthechipmunks.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Its second weekend was $28.2 million. On its third weekend, it surpassed ''I Am Legend'' for number 2 at the box office, but ranked behind ''[[National Treasure: Book of Secrets]]''. The film closed on Thursday June 5, 2008, making $217.3 million in the US and $144 million overseas for a total of $361.3 million worldwide.<ref name="bom"/> The sustained box-office success surprised the studio; Elizabeth Gabler of Fox 2000 told the ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'', "I look at the numbers every day, and we just laugh". ''Alvin'' was more profitable than either ''I Am Legend'' or ''National Treasure: Book of Secrets''.<ref name="horn">{{Cite web |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-jan-03-et-word3-story.html |title='Alvin's' broad appeal pays off |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306185100/http://articles.latimes.com/2008/jan/03/entertainment/et-word3 |archive-date=March 6, 2016 |work=Los Angeles Times |url-status=live |date=January 3, 2008}}</ref> According to [[MTV]], it became the highest-grossing talking animal/cartoon adaptation until its sequel.<ref name="mtv">{{cite web | work=MTV Movie Blog | title=Alvin & The Chipmunks To Meet Chipettes in Sequel? | url=http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/01/09/alvin-the-chipmunks-to-meet-chipettes-in-sequel/| access-date=January 18, 2008| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080115074715/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/01/09/alvin-the-chipmunks-to-meet-chipettes-in-sequel/| archive-date= January 15, 2008 | url-status= dead}}</ref> It is 20th Century Fox's second-highest-grossing film that was released in 2007, behind only ''[[Live Free or Die Hard]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.the-numbers.com/box-office-records/worldwide/all-movies/theatrical-distributors/20th-century-fox |title= All Time Worldwide Box Office for 20th Century Fox Movies|access-date=8 October 2024|publisher=[[The Numbers (website)|The Numbers]]}}</ref> |
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===Response towards Cross=== |
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David Cross received backlash for his role in the film. In December 2007, comedian [[Patton Oswalt]] made a blog joke that he and [[Brian Posehn]] were offered the role of Ian but rejected it, adding, "We both threw the script across the room in disgust. David Cross caught it."<ref name = "Oswalt">{{cite web|author-link=Patton Oswalt|last=Oswalt|first=Patton|date=January 2, 2008|url=https://www.avclub.com/patton-oswalt-responds-1798213018|title=Patton Oswalt Responds|work=The A.V. Club|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210219/https://film.avclub.com/patton-oswalt-responds-1798213018|url-status=live}}</ref> In response, Cross said he had rejected the role initially but reconsidered.<ref name=netburn>{{cite news| last= Netburn| first= Deborah| url= https://articles.latimes.com/2008/jan/03/entertainment/et-webcross3 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091025090716/http://articles.latimes.com/2008/jan/03/entertainment/et-webcross3 | url-status= dead | archive-date= October 25, 2009 |title=Comedian defends his kid-flick role|newspaper=Los Angeles Times| date=January 3, 2008| access-date=January 16, 2020}}</ref><ref name=sicha>{{cite news| last= Sicha| first=Choire| url= https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-ca-conversation14-2009jun14,0,4296916,full.story | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090618141328/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-ca-conversation14-2009jun14,0,4296916,full.story | url-status= dead | archive-date= June 18, 2009 |title= It's full speed ahead for David Cross|newspaper=Los Angeles Times| date=June 14, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author-link=David Cross|last=Cross|first=David|date=December 31, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080103174313/http://www.bobanddavid.com/2007/12/allllllviiiiin.html|url=http://www.bobanddavid.com/2007/12/allllllviiiiin.html|archive-date=January 3, 2008|title=Allllllviiiiin!|website=The Bob and Davider|access-date=December 25, 2019}}</ref> |
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== Reception == |
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=== Critical response === |
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{{RT prose|28|4.1|107|Though cutely rendered, ''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' suffers from bland potty humor and a rehashed kids' movie formula.|access-date={{RT data|access date}}}}<ref name=":0">{{cite web |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1184827-alvin_and_the_chipmunks/ |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007) |website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] |publisher=[[Fandango Media]] |access-date=November 1, 2020 |archive-date=November 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201117045859/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1184827-alvin_and_the_chipmunks |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Ryan|first=Tim|date=December 13, 2007|url=https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/Critical-Consensus-I-Am-Legend-All-Over-the-Map-Chipmunks-Hits-Sour-Note/|title=Critical Consensus: ''I Am Legend'' All Over the Map, ''Chipmunks'' Hits Sour Note|website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=March 24, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190324035054/https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/Critical-Consensus-I-Am-Legend-All-Over-the-Map-Chipmunks-Hits-Sour-Note/|url-status=live}}</ref> {{Metacritic film prose|39|23}}<ref>{{cite web |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks |url=https://www.metacritic.com/movie/alvin-and-the-chipmunks/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100705145645/http://www.metacritic.com/film/titles/alvinandthechipmunks |archive-date=July 5, 2010 |access-date=November 1, 2020 |website=[[Metacritic]]}}</ref> Audiences polled by [[CinemaScore]] gave it grade A, on a scale of A+ to F.<ref>{{cite web |title= CinemaScore |url= https://www.cinemascore.com/publicsearch/index/title/ |website= [[CinemaScore]] |access-date= October 20, 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180206073531/https://www.cinemascore.com/publicsearch/index/title/ |archive-date= February 6, 2018 |url-status= dead }}</ref> |
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[[File:DavidCross2007.jpg|thumb|left|David Cross in 2007. Several film reviewers praised his performance as the villain.<ref name = "EWreview">{{cite magazine|last=Willman|first=Chris|date=April 4, 2008|url=https://ew.com/article/2008/04/04/alvin-and-chipmunks-2/|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|access-date=December 23, 2019}}</ref><ref name = "NYTrev" />]] |
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[[Ty Burr]] of the ''[[Boston Globe]]'' said, "the script leans heavily on the pranks and big-eyed cuteness of the li'l guys and leaves the live actors with unfunny dialogue and nothing to do."<ref name = "Bostongl">{{cite web|last=Burr|first=Ty|date=December 14, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080424054217/http://www.boston.com/movies/display?display=movie&id=10081|archive-date=April 24, 2008|url=https://www.boston.com/movies/display?display=movie&id=10081|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[The Boston Globe]]|access-date=December 24, 2019}}</ref> According to ''[[The New York Times]]'', "its animated protagonists are egregiously eclipsed by the live-action characters."<ref name = "NYTrev"/> ''[[Chicago Reader]]'' criticized the "cardboard" characters of David Seville and Ian Hawke.<ref name = "ChicagoReader"/> The most common censure was the film's satire on commercialism, which was hypocritical due to being bombarded with popular brands, including the chipmunks themselves.{{efn|Attributed to multiple references:<ref name = "sfgate">{{cite web|last=Hartlaub|first=Peter|date=December 14, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111114084711/http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=%2Fc%2Fa%2F2007%2F12%2F14%2FDDGCTR30V.DTL&type=movies|archive-date=November 14, 2011|url=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2007/12/14/DDGCTR30V.DTL&type=movies|title=Review: 'Alvin and the Chipmunks' get a 21st century update|work=[[San Francisco Chronicle]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name = "Timeout">{{cite web|url=https://www.timeout.com/london/film/alvin-and-the-chipmunks|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[Time Out (magazine)|Time Out London]]|date=December 17, 2007|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210135/https://www.timeout.com/london/film/alvin-and-the-chipmunks|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Fox|first=Ken|date=May 18, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407050805/http://www.tvguide.com/movies/alvin-chipmunks/review/291755|archive-date=April 7, 2008|url=https://www.tvguide.com/movies/alvin-chipmunks/review/291755|title=Alvin And The Chipmunks|work=[[TV Guide]]|access-date=December 24, 2019}}</ref><ref name = "Telegraph">{{cite web|last=Robey|first=Tim|date=December 21, 2007|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/filmreviews/3670069/Film-reviews-St-Trinians-Alvin-and-the-Chipmunks-and-A-Comedy-of-Power.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/filmreviews/3670069/Film-reviews-St-Trinians-Alvin-and-the-Chipmunks-and-A-Comedy-of-Power.html |archive-date=January 12, 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Film reviews: St Trinian's, Alvin and the Chipmunks and A Comedy of Power|work=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|access-date=December 24, 2019}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name = "Empire">{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Anna|date=July 4, 2007|url=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/alvin-chipmunks-review/|title=Alvin And The Chipmunks Review|work=[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103211638/https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/alvin-chipmunks-review/|url-status=live}}</ref>}} Burr explained the film's message "is torn between the glitz that sells and the homilies that endure."<ref name="Bostongl"/> |
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Some critics disliked Lee's under-acting, particularly his underwhelming yelling of the word "Alvin!".{{efn|<ref name = "Desertnews">{{cite web|last=Vice|first=Jeff|date=December 13, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117215911/https://www.deseretnews.com/article/700004757/Alvin-and-the-Chipmunks.html|archive-date=January 17, 2018|url=https://www.deseretnews.com/article/700004757/Alvin-and-the-Chipmunks.html|title=Film review: Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[Deseret News]]|access-date=December 23, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Hunter|first=Stephen|date=December 14, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171209101144/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/13/AR2007121300753.html|archive-date=December 9, 2017|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/13/AR2007121300753.html|title=Singing the Same Old Song|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|access-date=December 24, 2019}}</ref><ref name = "EWreview">{{cite magazine|last=Willman|first=Chris|date=April 4, 2008|url=https://ew.com/article/2008/04/04/alvin-and-chipmunks-2/|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|access-date=December 23, 2019}}</ref><ref name = "LATimes">{{cite web|last=Ordona|first=Michael|date=December 14, 2007|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-dec-14-et-chipmunks14-story.html|title='Chipmunks' hits kid-friendly note|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210135/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-dec-14-et-chipmunks14-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref>}} Andrew Grant of ''[[Premiere (magazine)|Première]]'' found, "Jason Lee makes for a sympathetic Dave, yet there's an almost somnambulistic quality to his performance,"<ref name="Premiere">{{cite web |last=Grant |first=Andrew |date=December 13, 2007 |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks |url=http://www.premiere.com/moviereviews/4318/alvin-and-the-chipmunks.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915122449/http://www.premiere.com/moviereviews/4318/alvin-and-the-chipmunks.html |archive-date=September 15, 2008 |access-date=December 23, 2019 |work=[[Premiere (magazine)|Première]]}}</ref> and ''Vice'' wrote that Lee's "rather 'cartoony' acting style here leaves a lot to be desired."<ref name = "Desertnews"/> However, Lee's acting did have some supporters for working as a likable protagonist,<ref name = "Empire"/><ref name = "Hollywoodreporter">{{cite web|last=Scheck|first=Frank|date=December 13, 2007|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/alvin-chipmunks-158437|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210837/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/alvin-chipmunks-158437|url-status=live}}</ref> such as ''[[Time Out (magazine)|Time Out]]'', a source that thought his "wry approach lends an edge to some of the script's wittier moments."<ref name = "Timeout"/> |
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Some reviewers praised Cross' performance,<ref name = "NYTrev">{{cite web|last=Webster|first=Andy|date=December 14, 2007|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/14/movies/14chip.html|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=December 23, 2019|archive-date=October 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191021012534/https://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/14/movies/14chip.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Weitzman|first=Elizabeth|date=June 3, 2008|url=https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/chipmunks-drive-rodent-rage-article-1.272123|title='Chipmunks' drive us to rodent rage|work=[[New York Daily News]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210135/https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/chipmunks-drive-rodent-rage-article-1.272123|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name = "Variety1">{{cite web|last=Leydon|first=Joe|date=December 13, 2007|url=https://variety.com/2007/film/markets-festivals/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-2-1200553983/|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|access-date=December 13, 2011|archive-date=June 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170628092900/https://variety.com/2007/film/markets-festivals/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-2-1200553983/|url-status=live}}</ref> such as Bill Goodykoontz of ''[[The Arizona Republic]]'' who said, "Cross is hilarious in everything he does, but he's surprisingly effective in a kids comedy."<ref name = "Azzcentral">{{cite web|last=Goodykoontz|first=Bill|date=December 13, 2007|url=http://archive.azcentral.com/ent/movies/articles/2007/12/13/20071213alvin1214.html|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|work=[[The Arizona Republic]]|access-date=December 22, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210137/http://archive.azcentral.com/ent/movies/articles/2007/12/13/20071213alvin1214.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[New York Times]] described Cross as "delightfully despicable, movie-stealing".<ref name = "NYTrev"/> However, reviewer Tim Robey, admitted to being annoyed by Cross in the film.<ref name="Telegraph"/> Andrew Grant called Richardson "sufficiently adorable and winsome, though the film's purity makes it difficult to imagine any sort of romantic entanglement."<ref name = "Premiere"/> [[Roger Ebert]] of ''[[RogerEbert.com]]'' wrote: "Jason Lee and David Cross manfully play roles that require them, as actors, to relate with empty space that would later be filled with CGI."<ref name= "Ebert">{{cite web|author-link=Roger Ebert|last=Ebert|first=Roger|date=December 13, 2007|url=https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-2007|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks|website=[[RogerEbert.com]]|access-date=December 23, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210137/https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-2007|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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''[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]]'' wrote, "the values and the CGI are good."<ref name = "Phila">{{cite web|last=Rickey|first=Carrie|date=December 14, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071219073958/https://www.philly.com/inquirer/columnists/carrie_rickey/20071214_Please__Alvin__dont_be_so_darned_nice.html|archive-date=December 19, 2007|url=http://www.philly.com/inquirer/columnists/carrie_rickey/20071214_Please__Alvin__dont_be_so_darned_nice.html|title=Please, Alvin, don't be so darned nice|work=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]]|access-date=December 22, 2019}}</ref> Some critics praised the chipmunk protagonists;<ref name = "ChicagoReader">{{cite web|last=Gronvall |first=Andrea|date=December 20, 2007 |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks |work=[[Chicago Reader]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071218194056/http://onfilm.chicagoreader.com/movies/briefs/32583_ALVIN_AND_CHIPMUNKS.html|archive-date=December 18, 2007|url=http://onfilm.chicagoreader.com/movies/briefs/32583_ALVIN_AND_CHIPMUNKS.html|access-date=December 22, 2019}}</ref> with ''Vice'' writing they were "integrated pretty well into the live-action elements."<ref name = "Desertnews"/> ''The A.V. Club'' wrote, "the manic Chipmunks wear out their welcome pretty quickly."<ref name = "AVclub">{{cite web|last=Phipps|first=Keith|date=December 12, 2007|url=https://www.avclub.com/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-1798203527|title=Alvin And The Chipmunks|work=[[The A.V. Club]]|access-date=December 22, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210136/https://film.avclub.com/alvin-and-the-chipmunks-1798203527|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'' commented: "you've got regulation-height dancers and musicians backing a singing group the size of kids' mittens."<ref name = "Globeandmail">{{cite news|last=Cole|first=Stephen|date=December 14, 2007|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/funny-till-the-munks-get-funky/article726649/|title=Funny, till the 'munks get funky|work=[[The Globe and Mail]]|access-date=December 24, 2019|archive-date=January 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121180255/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/funny-till-the-munks-get-funky/article726649/|url-status=live}}</ref> Some reviewers, including Ebert, also panned the lack of distinction between the chipmunks.<ref name = "Ebert"/><ref name = "Phila"/> However, ''[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]'' thought there was a "persuasive interaction of human and digital co-stars."<ref name = "Variety1"/> |
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=== Accolades === |
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{{Anchor|Awards|Accolades}} |
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Fox submitted ''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' to the [[Academy Awards]] for a [[Academy Award for Best Animated Feature|Best Animated Feature]] before the film had a theatrical run required for the award; it was not nominated.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/film-oscars-dc-idUSN0828069820071112 |title="Ratatouille," "Bee Movie" make Oscar shortlist-Reuters |website=[[Reuters]] |access-date=2018-10-25 |archive-date=2018-10-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181026064540/https://www.reuters.com/article/film-oscars-dc-idUSN0828069820071112 |url-status=live }}</ref> While the [[Movieguide Awards]] named ''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' the third best family film of 2007,<ref>{{cite web|last=Garcia|first=Elena|date=February 14, 2008|url=https://www.christianpost.com/news/top-10-movies-of-2007-announced-at-christian-oscars.html|title=Top 10 Movies of 2007 Announced at 'Christian Oscars'|work=[[The Christian Post]]|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=May 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501172243/https://www.christianpost.com/news/top-10-movies-of-2007-announced-at-christian-oscars.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[PopMatters]]'' called it the second worst film of the year.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.popmatters.com/super-duper-bad-the-worst-films-of-2007-2496187805.html|title=Super Duper Bad: The Worst Films of 2007|work=[[PopMatters]]|date=January 10, 2008|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103211211/https://www.popmatters.com/super-duper-bad-the-worst-films-of-2007-2496187805.html|url-status=live}}</ref> It was also named one of 2007's worst pictures by science fiction writer [[John Varley (author)|John Varley]].<ref>{{cite web|author-link=John Varley (author)|last=Varley|first=John|url=http://www.varley.net/Movies/Best%20%26%20Worst%20of%202007.htm|title=Varley's Best and Worst Films of 2007|year=2008|website=Varley.net|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=December 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207072139/http://www.varley.net/Movies/Best%20%26%20Worst%20of%202007.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2011, ''Entertainment Weekly'' ranked ''Alvin and the Chipmunks'' the third worst live-action/animation hybrid film of all time.<ref>{{cite magazine|first1=Lisa|last1=Schwarzbaum|last2=Gleiberman|first2=Owen|date=April 1, 2011|url=https://ew.com/gallery/5-best-and-5-worst-live-actionanimation-hybrid-movies/?slide=344691#344691|title=5 Best -- and 5 Worst -- Live-Action/Animation Hybrid Movies|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=December 25, 2019}}</ref> ''[[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]'' and ''[[Screen Rant]]'' named it eleventh worst talking animal film of all time.<ref>{{cite web|last=Striga|first=Danijel|date=December 17, 2015|url=https://screenrant.com/worst-movies-talking-animals/|title=11 Worst Movies Starring Talking Animals|website=[[Screen Rant]]|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103211215/https://screenrant.com/worst-movies-talking-animals/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Barone|first=Matt|date=March 30, 2011|url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2011/03/15-most-obnoxious-movie-animals/alvin-and-the-chipmunks|title=The 15 Most Obnoxious Movie Animals|work=[[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210704/https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2011/03/15-most-obnoxious-movie-animals/alvin-and-the-chipmunks|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2013, it was ranked by ''[[GamesRadar]]'' as the 48th worst Christmas movie ever.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kinnear|first=Simon|date=December 9, 2013|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/100-worst-christmas-movies/|title=100 Worst Christmas Movies|work=[[GamesRadar]]|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103211208/https://www.gamesradar.com/100-worst-christmas-movies/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2016, ''Box Office Prophets'' ranked it the fifth worst live-action film based on a cartoon.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boxofficeprophets.com/column/index.cfm?columnID=18340|title=A-List: Worst Live Action Movies based on Cartoons|website=Box Office Prophets|date=April 14, 2016|access-date=December 25, 2019|archive-date=January 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103210700/http://www.boxofficeprophets.com/column/index.cfm%3FcolumnID%3D18340|url-status=live}}</ref> The film also won the [[2008 Kids' Choice Awards]] for Favorite Movie,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nickalive.net/2008/03/nickelodeon-kids-choice-awards-2008.html|date=31 March 2008|access-date=9 October 2024|title=Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards 2008 Winners Press Release|publisher=NickALive!}}</ref> a [[BMI Film & TV Award]] for Film Music,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmi.com/news/entry/2008_bmi_film_tv_awards|date=22 May 2008|access-date=9 October 2024|title=2008 BMI Film/TV Awards|publisher=[[BMI Film & TV Awards]]}}</ref> and was nominated for a [[Young Artist Award]] for [[29th Young Artist Awards#Best Family Feature Film (Fantasy or Musical)|Best Family Feature Film (Fantasy or Musical)]].<ref name="Young Artist Awards 3">{{cite web|url=http://www.youngartistawards.org/noms29.html |title=29th Annual Young Artist Awards |accessdate=2012-03-31 |work=YoungArtistAwards.org |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080706161000/http://www.youngartistawards.org/noms29.html |archivedate=2008-07-06 }}</ref> |
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==Sequels== |
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{{main|Alvin and the Chipmunks in film#Theatrical live-action films}} |
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A sequel titled ''[[Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel]]'', was released on December 23, 2009.<ref>{{cite web |title=Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (2009) |url=https://www2.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/4ce2b8d482dd1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180227181153/http://www.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/4ce2b8d482dd1 |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 27, 2018 |website=[[British Film Institute]] |access-date=December 13, 2020}}</ref> [[Zachary Levi]] joined the cast for ''The Squeakquel'', and the main cast members reprised their roles for the sequel; the film introduced [[the Chipettes]] in [[Alvin and the Chipmunks in film#Theatrical live-action films|the live-action film series]]. A third film, titled ''[[Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked]]'', was released on December 16, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/AFF280482/|title=ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS - CHIPWRECKED|work=bbfc.co.uk}}</ref> A fourth and final film, titled ''[[Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip]]'', was released on December 18, 2015.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/alvin-and-chipmunks-road-chip-film | title=''ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP'' (U) | work=[[British Board of Film Classification]] | date=January 5, 2016 | access-date=January 5, 2016 | archive-date=February 20, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160220005402/http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/alvin-and-chipmunks-road-chip-film | url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==Notes== |
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{{notelist}} |
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==References== |
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{{Reflist}} |
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{{Wikiquote}} |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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* {{IMDb title|0952640|Alvin and the Chipmunks}} |
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* [http://www.alvinandthechipmunksmovie.com Official site] |
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* {{ |
* {{TCMDb title|664892|Alvin and the Chipmunks}} |
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* {{ |
* {{mojo title|alvinandthechipmunks|Alvin and the Chipmunks}} |
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* {{rotten-tomatoes|id=1184827-alvin_and_the_chipmunks|title=Alvin and the Chipmunks}} |
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{{ |
{{Alvin and the Chipmunks}} |
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{{Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Award for Favorite Movie}} |
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{{Tim Hill}} |
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{{20th Century Animation}} |
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[[Category:Films about talking animals]] |
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[[Category:Dune Entertainment films]] |
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[[Category:Films produced by Ross Bagdasarian Jr.]] |
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Latest revision as of 22:06, 8 January 2025
Alvin and the Chipmunks | |
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Directed by | Tim Hill |
Screenplay by | |
Story by | Jon Vitti |
Based on | Alvin and the Chipmunks by Ross Bagdasarian Sr. |
Produced by | |
Starring | |
Cinematography | Peter Lyons Collister |
Edited by | Peter E. Berger |
Music by | Christopher Lennertz |
Production companies | |
Distributed by | 20th Century Fox[1] |
Release date |
|
Running time | 92 minutes[1] |
Country | United States[1] |
Language | English |
Budget | $60 million[3] |
Box office | $361.3 million[3] |
Alvin and the Chipmunks is a 2007 American live-action/animated jukebox musical comedy film directed by Tim Hill from a screenplay by Jon Vitti and the writing team of Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi. It is the first installment in the live-action film series of Alvin and the Chipmunks. The plot follows chipmunks Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, who move in with struggling songwriter Dave Seville after losing their home. When Dave discovers their singing talent, he introduces them to JETT Records executive Ian Hawke, whose plans threaten the chipmunks' newfound family dynamic. The cast includes Jason Lee, David Cross, and Cameron Richardson, with voices by Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler and Jesse McCartney.[4][5]
Development began in 1997 when Ross Bagdasarian Jr. expressed interest in creating a live-action film. The project saw multiple changes before it was officially announced in September 2004 as a collaboration between Fox 2000 Pictures, 20th Century Fox Animation, and Bagdasarian Productions. The animation for the film was handled by Rhythm & Hues Studios, which studied real chipmunks and previous versions of the characters to design CGI models that retained the original essence. The integration of CGI with live-action footage required match-moving techniques and advanced visual effects software.[6] The music was composed by Christopher Lennertz. The film is dedicated in the memory of Ross Bagdasarian, creator of the Chipmunks.
Alvin and the Chipmunks was released in the United States on December 14, 2007, by 20th Century Fox. The film received generally negative reviews from critics, who criticized the film's humor and "rehashed kids' movie formula", while Cross' performance as the villain received general praise.[7] It grossed $361.3 million worldwide against a $60 million budget[8][3] and was the third best-selling DVD of 2008 in the United States.[9] The film was followed by three sequels: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (2009), Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked (2011), and Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2015).[10]
Plot
[edit]Talking chipmunk brothers Alvin, Simon, and Theodore reside in a fir tree, which is cut down and driven to Los Angeles after record label JETT Records purchases it as a Christmas tree. Meanwhile, struggling songwriter Dave Seville has his latest demo rejected by their chief executive Ian Hawke, who suggests that Dave should quit writing songs. Dave steals a muffin basket from one of Ian's subordinates and heads home; the Chipmunks, finding themselves in the same building, leave the tree and hop into the basket.
Finding the Chipmunks in his home, a shocked Dave initially forces them to leave. When he hears them sing "Only You (And You Alone)" and "Funkytown", Dave makes a deal with the Chipmunks to sing his songs in exchange for food and shelter. That night, Dave writes a song for them. The next day, Dave plays his piano and the Chipmunks practice Dave's song, "Christmas Don't Be Late". However, when Dave tries to present the Chipmunks to Ian, the Chipmunks fail to sing because of stage fright. The day worsens as Dave is fired from his marketing job due to the Chipmunks having unknowingly ruined his presentation boards. While hosting dinner with former girlfriend Claire, Dave struggles to hide the Chipmunks after Alvin attempts to create a romantic atmosphere, causing an uncomfortable Claire to leave. To make amends, the Chipmunks sing Dave's song in Ian's lavish mansion, prompting Ian to sign a record deal and restore the songwriting career of Dave, now the Chipmunks' manager.
The Chipmunks quickly become an international sensation, further solidified after a successful performance of "Witch Doctor". Dave, concerned for their wellbeing, insists the Chipmunks are too young to handle fame, but Ian convinces them Dave reduces their success. After a misunderstanding and reading an old letter Dave wrote, the Chipmunks decide to live with Ian, who exploits their naivety by overworking them constantly. When Ian's plan to take the Chipmunks on a twelve-month international tour is revealed on the news, Dave decides to infiltrate their concert at the Orpheum Theatre to get them back. When Dave manages to sneak in with Claire's help, the Chipmunks hear Dave calling and realize that Ian has tricked them; they decide to sabotage the show by causing chaos onstage. Dave is stopped by security as Ian locks the Chipmunks in a cage, preparing for their concert in Paris. Ian escapes in his limousine with Dave pursuing after him. Despite losing Ian, Dave finds the Chipmunks in his car. As Dave and the Chipmunks reconcile, Ian discovers their escape, which ultimately results in the collapse of his career and financial ruin.
Cast
[edit]- Justin Long as Alvin (speaking voice)
- Ross Bagdasarian Jr. as Alvin (singing voice)
- Matthew Gray Gubler as Simon (speaking voice)
- Steve Vining as Simon (singing voice)[11]
- Jesse McCartney as Theodore (speaking voice)
- Janice Karman as Theodore (singing voice)
- Jason Lee as David "Dave" Seville, a struggling songwriter and adoptive father figure to Alvin, Simon and Theodore
- David Cross as Ian Hawke, the CEO of JETT Records
- Cameron Richardson as Claire Wilson, a photographer and Dave's ex-girlfriend[12]
- Jane Lynch as Gail, an advertising executive and Dave's ex-boss
Production
[edit]Origin and development
[edit]In 1958, Ross Bagdasarian (using the pseudonym David Seville) experimented with speed-altered vocals to create "Witch Doctor", a novelty song about asking for love advice from a witch doctor.[13] Its success, which included topping the Billboard charts,[13] inspired Bagdasarian to apply the recording technique to create The Chipmunks: Alvin, Simon, and Theodore.[14][15] Their debut song "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)" sold over 4 million copies and won multiple Grammy Awards.[16][17] This popularity led to the first animated show, The Alvin Show, airing in 1961. After Bagdasarian's death, his son Ross Bagdasarian Jr. revived the Chipmunks with a successful Christmas special in 1981.[14]
Ross Bagdasarian Jr. dreamed of making a live-action film since 1997 "and the dream has had many nightmare moments".[18] In June 1997, Robert Zemeckis was assigned to direct a live action adaptation with Steven Spielberg producing with Universal Pictures,[19] but the project was put on hold after the estate of Ross Bagdasarian Sr. filed a lawsuit against Universal in September 2000, claiming the studio had failed to properly license products featuring Alvin and his singing companions.[20] In September 2004, Fox 2000 Pictures, 20th Century Fox Animation and Bagdasarian Productions announced they would collaborate to create a live-action computer-generated film starring Alvin and the Chipmunks.[21] In April 2005, Jon Vitti, writer of The Simpsons, was revealed to be writing the screenplay.[22] In January 2007, it was announced Tim Hill, former writer of Rocko's Modern Life and SpongeBob SquarePants, was in talks with Fox to direct the film, having previously directed Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties.[23]
Pre-production
[edit]Chevy Chase, Tim Allen, John Travolta, and Bill Murray were originally considered for the role of David Seville.[24][25][26] In March 2007, Jason Lee joined the project to play David Seville,[27] and Cameron Richardson joining that month to play Claire.[28] Patton Oswalt and Brian Posehn were approached to play Ian Hawke but all declined.[29] Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler and Jesse McCartney voiced the Chipmunks, replacing Bagdasarian Jr. and his wife Janice Karman, who had voiced the chipmunks since they revived the franchise.[30] For recording, the chipmunk voice actors spoke their lines slowly to be sped up to normal speed in post-production; McCartney described it as a "tedious process", where "it could take 40 takes for one line." He owned the album Chipmunk Punk (1980) and studied 1980s Alvin cartoons for his role in the film.[31]
Filming
[edit]Principal photography began on March 28, 2007,[32][33] with filming taking place primarily in areas of Los Angeles.[34] Seville's house was built on Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood, and contains references to Bagdasarian Sr.'s life. The set pieces included an upright piano he used to write his songs and a flower visual he painted; the house's address number includes 1958, the year he created the chipmunk characters; and the house design is based on a cottage built in 1919, the year Bagdasarian Sr. was born.[35]
In shots where human characters interacted with the chipmunks, the actors rehearsed with small stuffed animals indicating where the chipmunks would be; the animals were then removed when it was time to shoot, and the actors used their memory of where the animals were.[6] In the mid-credits scene where Ian tries to get squirrels to sing, the actor and the animals were filmed separately. Using nuts, a trainer would bait squirrels in order to get them to turn their heads in different directions.[36]
Visual effects and animation
[edit]The Chipmunks were animated by visual effects company Rhythm & Hues Studios,[37] who previously animated creatures for projects such as Babe (1995), Mouse Hunt (1997), Scooby-Doo (2002), The Cat in the Hat (2003), and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), the lattermost of which garnered Rhythm & Hues an Academy Award.[6] As with past projects, Rhythm & Hues used its own software for animating Alvin and the Chipmunks. Programs Voodoo and Icy were used for placing the CGI into live-action shots,[6] with Autodesk programs like Flame and Maya used as well.[38][39]
According to Bagdasarian Jr., getting the look of the chipmunks suited for a live-action setting while maintaining the essence of the cartoon designs was challenging, and it took until September 2006 for the artists to get it right.[40] Hill instructed the artists to make the chipmunks look realistic, but not entirely like chipmunks.[6] In addition to observing real chipmunks offered by Universal Studios Inc., Rhythm & Hues studied all versions of the chipmunk characters from past Alvin media for conceiving, fur-texturing, and animating designs for the film.[6] Human dancers were referenced for animating the dance movements of the chipmunks, and YouTube videos of famous guitarists playing the guitar influenced how Alvin's guitar-playing was animated.[6] High-dynamic-range images of sets were also used for lighting the chipmunks to fit the live-action shots.[6] The most difficult part of integrating the chipmunks in the shots was match moving for instances when they climb on Seville's head.[6] For scenes where the chipmunks interacted with props, some were live-action props while others, such as a paper airplane, were produced and animated.[6]
Music
[edit]The soundtrack was released in November 2007, featuring songs such as "Witch Doctor" and "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)" (as made famous by David Seville and the Chipmunks), cover versions of songs such as "Bad Day" (as made famous by Daniel Powter) and "Funkytown" (as made famous by Lipps Inc.), and original songs such as "Coast 2 Coast", "Get You Goin'" and "Get Munk'd".[41][42] Four songs from the album charted on the Billboard Hot 100.[43] The album has been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America for shipments of over one million copies, thereby becoming the Chipmunks' third Platinum album, sixth RIAA-certified album and the first since Chipmunks in Low Places (which also went Platinum).[44] The film's original score was composed and conducted by Christopher Lennertz.[45] La-La Land Records released a limited edition album in September 2008.[46]
Release
[edit]Predictions and marketing
[edit]Months before its release, film bloggers anticipated that Alvin and the Chipmunks would be a failure due to the involvement of the director of Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties (2006),[47][48] the writers of Snow Day (2000), the Ice Age films, Robots (2005), Big Momma's House 2 (2006),[48] and the poor quality of previous live-action adaptations of old cartoons.[47][49] In an August 2007 survey of 750 American teens ran by eCRUSH and OTX, Alvin and the Chipmunks was one of the most anticipated films of the 2007 fall and winter seasons in the group.[50] A video game adaptation was developed by Sensory Sweep Studios for Brash Entertainment and released on December 4, 2007.[51]
Home media
[edit]The film was released on DVD and Blu-ray on April 1, 2008.[52] This release sold 7.5 million DVD units ($127.6 million) in total becoming the third-best-selling DVD of 2008 in the United States, behind only The Dark Knight and Iron Man.[9]
Box office
[edit]Alvin and the Chipmunks was released in the United States and Canada on December 14, 2007. The film grossed $44.3 million in 3,475 theaters its opening weekend averaging to about $12,750 per venue, placing second at the box office behind I Am Legend.[53][54] Its second weekend was $28.2 million. On its third weekend, it surpassed I Am Legend for number 2 at the box office, but ranked behind National Treasure: Book of Secrets. The film closed on Thursday June 5, 2008, making $217.3 million in the US and $144 million overseas for a total of $361.3 million worldwide.[54] The sustained box-office success surprised the studio; Elizabeth Gabler of Fox 2000 told the Los Angeles Times, "I look at the numbers every day, and we just laugh". Alvin was more profitable than either I Am Legend or National Treasure: Book of Secrets.[55] According to MTV, it became the highest-grossing talking animal/cartoon adaptation until its sequel.[8] It is 20th Century Fox's second-highest-grossing film that was released in 2007, behind only Live Free or Die Hard.[56]
Response towards Cross
[edit]David Cross received backlash for his role in the film. In December 2007, comedian Patton Oswalt made a blog joke that he and Brian Posehn were offered the role of Ian but rejected it, adding, "We both threw the script across the room in disgust. David Cross caught it."[57] In response, Cross said he had rejected the role initially but reconsidered.[58][59][60]
Reception
[edit]Critical response
[edit]On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 28% of 107 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 4.1/10. The website's consensus reads: "Though cutely rendered, Alvin and the Chipmunks suffers from bland potty humor and a rehashed kids' movie formula."[61][62] Metacritic, which uses a weighted average, assigned the film a score of 39 out of 100, based on 23 critics, indicating "generally unfavorable" reviews.[63] Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave it grade A, on a scale of A+ to F.[64]
Ty Burr of the Boston Globe said, "the script leans heavily on the pranks and big-eyed cuteness of the li'l guys and leaves the live actors with unfunny dialogue and nothing to do."[67] According to The New York Times, "its animated protagonists are egregiously eclipsed by the live-action characters."[66] Chicago Reader criticized the "cardboard" characters of David Seville and Ian Hawke.[68] The most common censure was the film's satire on commercialism, which was hypocritical due to being bombarded with popular brands, including the chipmunks themselves.[a] Burr explained the film's message "is torn between the glitz that sells and the homilies that endure."[67]
Some critics disliked Lee's under-acting, particularly his underwhelming yelling of the word "Alvin!".[b] Andrew Grant of Première found, "Jason Lee makes for a sympathetic Dave, yet there's an almost somnambulistic quality to his performance,"[77] and Vice wrote that Lee's "rather 'cartoony' acting style here leaves a lot to be desired."[74] However, Lee's acting did have some supporters for working as a likable protagonist,[73][78] such as Time Out, a source that thought his "wry approach lends an edge to some of the script's wittier moments."[70]
Some reviewers praised Cross' performance,[66][79][80] such as Bill Goodykoontz of The Arizona Republic who said, "Cross is hilarious in everything he does, but he's surprisingly effective in a kids comedy."[81] New York Times described Cross as "delightfully despicable, movie-stealing".[66] However, reviewer Tim Robey, admitted to being annoyed by Cross in the film.[72] Andrew Grant called Richardson "sufficiently adorable and winsome, though the film's purity makes it difficult to imagine any sort of romantic entanglement."[77] Roger Ebert of RogerEbert.com wrote: "Jason Lee and David Cross manfully play roles that require them, as actors, to relate with empty space that would later be filled with CGI."[82]
The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote, "the values and the CGI are good."[83] Some critics praised the chipmunk protagonists;[68] with Vice writing they were "integrated pretty well into the live-action elements."[74] The A.V. Club wrote, "the manic Chipmunks wear out their welcome pretty quickly."[84] The Globe and Mail commented: "you've got regulation-height dancers and musicians backing a singing group the size of kids' mittens."[85] Some reviewers, including Ebert, also panned the lack of distinction between the chipmunks.[82][83] However, Variety thought there was a "persuasive interaction of human and digital co-stars."[80]
Accolades
[edit]Fox submitted Alvin and the Chipmunks to the Academy Awards for a Best Animated Feature before the film had a theatrical run required for the award; it was not nominated.[86] While the Movieguide Awards named Alvin and the Chipmunks the third best family film of 2007,[87] PopMatters called it the second worst film of the year.[88] It was also named one of 2007's worst pictures by science fiction writer John Varley.[89] In 2011, Entertainment Weekly ranked Alvin and the Chipmunks the third worst live-action/animation hybrid film of all time.[90] Complex and Screen Rant named it eleventh worst talking animal film of all time.[91][92] In 2013, it was ranked by GamesRadar as the 48th worst Christmas movie ever.[93] In 2016, Box Office Prophets ranked it the fifth worst live-action film based on a cartoon.[94] The film also won the 2008 Kids' Choice Awards for Favorite Movie,[95] a BMI Film & TV Award for Film Music,[96] and was nominated for a Young Artist Award for Best Family Feature Film (Fantasy or Musical).[97]
Sequels
[edit]A sequel titled Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, was released on December 23, 2009.[98] Zachary Levi joined the cast for The Squeakquel, and the main cast members reprised their roles for the sequel; the film introduced the Chipettes in the live-action film series. A third film, titled Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked, was released on December 16, 2011.[99] A fourth and final film, titled Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip, was released on December 18, 2015.[100]
Notes
[edit]References
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External links
[edit]- 2007 films
- 2007 fantasy films
- 2000s musical comedy films
- American films with live action and animation
- American children's animated comedy films
- American Christmas films
- American fantasy comedy films
- American musical comedy films
- 2000s English-language films
- Alvin and the Chipmunks films
- Jukebox musical films
- Films about talking animals
- Films set in Los Angeles
- Films shot in California
- Live-action films based on animated series
- 20th Century Fox films
- Regency Enterprises films
- Dune Entertainment films
- Films directed by Tim Hill
- Films scored by Christopher Lennertz
- 2007 comedy films
- Films produced by Ross Bagdasarian Jr.
- Films produced by Janice Karman
- 2000s American films
- 2007 computer-animated films
- Films with screenplays by Jon Vitti
- Films with screenplays by Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi
- English-language musical comedy films
- English-language fantasy films
- Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Award–winning films
- 2007 musical films