Plot: What’s it about?
Tommy, Chuckie, Dil, Angelica, Phil, and Lil have all returned and this time, they’re taking their adventures halfway across the world. It seems that Drew Pickles used some shortcuts when he created the massive Reptar statue for EuroReptarland, so he has to trek across the globe to Paris to mend his mistakes. And since there’s little else to do, the whole crew loads up and goes with him, on a vacation of sorts. While Drew has work to do and the kids just want to have some fun, Chuckie’s dad Chas has other plans, as he wants to fall in love. This would not only give him a new companion for himself, but also a mother for Chuckie, which he thinks would be a terrific idea. But even in a new land with all sorts of chances, Chas learns love is no simple task, although he keeps his hopes up and remains on the watch for potential chicks. Meanwhile, all of the kids find themselves in all sorts of adventures, as they explore landmarks, meet new friends, and of course, learn some lessons along the path.
I’ve always liked the television series for Rugrats, but I was unsure how well it would all translate to the silver screen. But after I saw and liked the first Rugrats flick, I was looking forward to this sequel and I must say, it was also well worth the time and effort. Of course, this one is aimed at the younger audience, but fans of the show have a lot to like here and even parents could have fun with this one. I think you can pick up on more smaller details if you’ve seen the show, but even those who don’t watch the show can watch this and like it, as it stands alone well also. Yes, most of the humor is sent toward the kids, but there is also plenty of jokes for the adults to pick up on, so no one is left out in the cold here. The main characters retain the voice talent used on the show, but a lot of guest voices can be found here too. Some of the performers that can be heard include Susan Sarandon, John Lithgow, and Casey Kasem, as well as a couple others you’ll pick up on. If you have any interest in this movie, then I recommend you give this disc a spin, as the movie is cool and Paramount has given a nice treatment as well.
Video: How does it look?
Rugrats In Paris: The Movie is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. As you can imagine, this film offers a lot of vivid colors and terrific visuals, all of which this presentation handles with no issues. The colors look gorgeous here, with bold hues and no signs of errors in the least, very impressive indeed. The black levels are also in check, which ensures the other elements can shine and that they do, to be sure. Another crisp, very impressive transfer from Paramount, who we can always count on, at least in terms of new releases.
Audio: How does it sound?
I wasn’t expecting much from this disc, but the included Dolby Digital 5.1 track is a real winner, with much more power than I expected. The bulk of the surround use comes from the musical soundtrack, which is very well mixed here and comes off in fine, immersive form at all times. I was also pleased with the surround use from other elements, but I think the music steals the show in most instances. Of course, a lot of focus is placed on the dialogue also, which is a major part of this audio presentation. The vocals sound refined and crisp at all times, never mired or lost under the surround use in the least. This disc also includes 2.0 surround options in English and French, as well as English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
In a welcome gesture, Paramount has packed in some nice supplements, which is a change of pace for them, to be sure. A seventeen minute featurette starts us off, which contains various interviews and some cool looks at the animation process. I wish this was more in depth, but a lot of information is packed into the running time, so I think it evens out a little in the end. A sound effects showcase is also included, which allows the viewer to isolate the sound effects and see how intricate and complex that process is. You can also watch two promotional spots for the film, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer. The rest of the extras include some DVD ROM games, a music video for “Who Let The Dogs Out,” and two alternate endings, very cool stuff indeed.
