Rio 2 (2014): Dir: Carlos Saldanha / Voices: Jessie Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway, Jemaine Clement, Kristin Chenoweth, Bruno Mars: As with the wretched Crocodile Dundee 2, this animated sequel reverses the events of the first film. This time it is discovered that Blu and Jewel are not the only blue macaws in the world as more have been discovered in the Amazon. Blu and Jewel live in a bird sanctuary under protection but Jewel desires to return to her roots. Blu is reluctant but at the urge of his three ambitious hatchlings and other feathered friends he relents. Once there Jewel is reunited with her family and this is where familiar formula elements rain in. Her uptight father will, of course, not accept Blu, leaving him to have to prove himself. And let us not forget that male suitor who is so much better than Blu at pretty much everything. They are also being pursued by cockatoo Nigel out for revenge on Blu after the events of the first film. He is joined by an affectionate poison dart frog named Gabi and an anteater with a tongue for many talents. Despite dim plotting and formula story telling the climax works with the Amazon clashing with human greed. Jessie Eisenberg voices Blu who is adjusting to non-city life. Anne Hathaway voices Jewel who seeks home. Jemaine Clement and Kristin Chenoweth provide much hilarity voicing Nigel and Gabi. Bruno Mars voices the potential suitor to Jewel whom is slicker than Blu and seems to be better at everything. Unfortunately the gorgeous Amazon presented cannot make up for a drab screenplay that ultimately goes to the birds. Score: 5 ½ / 10
Review of Rio 2
