Famille de la jungle - L'anniversaire de Donie

This film is a prequel to the Wild Thornberrys series that I loved. It has a similar style but delves in quite deep into the backstory with lots of flashbacks. We finally get to see the origins promised in the title and while it's nothing surprising, it is portrayed in a funny and heartfelt way that really pays off.

I actually love The Wild Thornberrys, though I am going out on a limb as I've come across a lot of people who've cited it as one of Nickelodean's worst. It's not one of their best(Rocko's Modern Life, Angry Beavers, Avatar:The Last Airbender, Ren and Stimpy, Legends of the Hidden Temple, Penguins of Madagascar), but I do think it is underrated and that there are much worse shows from Nick(Chalkzone, Fanboy and Chum Chum, Butt-Ugly Martians, Tak and the Power of Juju, The Naked Brothers Band, Rocket Power). The Origin of Donnie I did like, not as much as the show or The Wild Thornberrys Movie, but it was interesting to see how Donnie came to be part of the Thornberry family in the first place. Okay, the ending was rather predictable, I did have a strong feeling how it was going to end and I was right, and I do think it could have been shorter, it is mainly four episodes in one movie and I think the story could have easily been told in two or three episodes worth. However, I did like the animation, it is bright and colourful, and I know a lot of people are unnecessarily prejudicial towards the character designs but I had no problem with them. The music also fits perfectly with the mood of the story, while the writing and story manage to be both funny and poignant and are true to those of the show. I always loved the show for the different locations and the animals that we learn a lot about. There is less of an emphasis on that here, but it is on display and it is interesting. I personally love the characters too, my favourite is Nigel, of course he's dumb but he is also endearingly funny and has a meaningful heart as well. Darwin is hilarious and Debbie while a stereotypical teenager is one you identify with. Eliza gets a lot of hate on IMDb and Youtube(though I do think it is pathetic when people call her ugly and stupid), and while she does have her selfish moments her heart is in the right place and she does genuinely care for those animals when they're in danger. The voice acting is great, Tim Curry is an obvious standout, as are Danielle Harris and the ever lovable Betty White. All in all, I liked The Origin of Donnie. 8/10 Bethany Cox