Common Sense Media Review
A loveable horror story with life lessons.
Parents Need to Know
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Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the Wolfman
What's the Story?
ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS MEET THE WOLFMAN revolves around Theodore and his struggles with his shaky self-image. Unpleasant encounters with a school bully undermine his self-confidence, but his role in a school play allows him to begin to believe in himself. Meanwhile, a horror movie-obsessed Alvin becomes convinced that the chipmunk's new neighbor is a werewolf.
Is It Any Good?
Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the Wolfman is a polished direct-to-video production. The animation is quite good, and the characters are cute and appealing without ever being cloying. Its greatest virtue, however, is that there's more emphasis on characters than one would expect in a story involving singing chipmunks and werewolves.
The writers create a believable sibling relationship among the three brothers. While they quarrel, it's obvious that they really care about each other. Adults get a sympathetic treatment as well. Dave Seville, the chipmunk's "father," takes an active interest in their affairs, as does the school principal, who places Theodore in the school play specifically to boost his self-confidence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Theodore's challenges in school. How have you reacted when you were bullied in school? Did you want to turn around, like Theodore, and become a bully, too? What did Alvin and Simon do to help prevent that from happening to Theodore?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 11, 2000
- On DVD or streaming : August 28, 2001
- Cast : Janice Karman , Maurice LaMarche , Ross Bagdasarian Jr.
- Director : Kathi Castillo
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy
- Run time : 79 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : all audiences
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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