Review: ‘Home’ has some laughs, action, but story is paper-thin and full of holes

Posted on April 3, 2015

By MARK VIOLA

I’m sure Dreamworks executives were pleased with “Home,” their latest offering, which debuted to a solid $52 million opening weekend with an global take topping $100 million so far.

As for the movie itself, “Home” provides enough laughs and adventure to keep children entertained, but it lacks both the story and emotional depth that other, better animated films have given us recently. It really is one of those movies that I could spend this entire review tearing apart–and don’t worry, I will do some of that–but in the end, it did keep me amused for its relatively short runtime, even if it did so by using easy jokes and a story that is paper-thin at its best moments.

“Home” actually has a decent premise, but the script waters it down so much to be “kid friendly” that it removes almost all of the tension and leaves the film feeling very thin and forgettable.

“Home simply does not live up to the standard set by recent animated offerings. It may provide a basic level of entertainment, but it’s one that could have actually been something decent if some time and care had been applied. Sadly, it wasn’t.

The movie is rated PG for mild action and some rude humor.

(This is a shortened version of the full review available in our printed or e-edition papers.)

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