The best aspect of watching animated movies based on literature is seeing how well writers twist established mythology. The Shrek films did this successfully with its bending of various fairy tales delighting big and small viewers. Spinning off from Shrek is Puss in Boots with the title character becoming almost as popular as Shrek himself. Adapted from the works by Charles Perrault Puss in Boots’ first solo outing is almost as enchanting as the words from which it first appeared.
Puss in Boots is a swashbuckling feline looking for the next prize. He thinks he finds this when hearing of some magic beans which can lead him to untold riches. Unfortunately they are protected by wicked outlaws Jack and Jill who intend on using them for nefarious means. Sensing big trouble, Puss is helped by the mysterious vagabond Kitty Softpaws and Humpty Dumpty. A strange trio of personas attempt to save the world in their own suave but valiant fashion.
With a vocal cast including Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek and filled with superb animation, Puss in Boots is a generally fun escapade. Whilst occasionally suffering from a ‘touch of the cuteness’ and ill-judged bodily function jokes, it mostly recaptures the character’s original charm. Perhaps more so than Shrek ‘Puss in Boots’ allows the writers to be even more free-wheeling with the finely tuned humour and action enlivening the sometimes slow paced story.
Although primarily a children’s film Puss in Boots manages to put in a few genre references older viewers should enjoy. Its style and look are taken from the Zorro series – ironic given Banderas actually played that hero in two films. Coupled with the ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ motif the justification of putting a popular character from another franchise into their own production pays off – something rarely meeting much success.
While it could have been better in certain areas overall Puss in Boots should satisfy fans. A silly animated romp again highlighting, how the re-interpretation of literary icons can only be as successful as a screen-writer’s vivid imagination.
Movie Review Rating 6 / 10
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.
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