Everyone remembers playing with LEGOs as a child. The small, colorful blocks weren’t just toys that helped pass the time. Instead, the blocks that help us build the tallest skyscrapers and fastest cars and the coolest doohickeys we could imagine were also the building blocks of imagination. In “The LEGO Movie”, that is the central message. An incredibly fun and adventurous movie, “The LEGO Movie” pleases not only kids, but also people of all ages.

Initially, “The LEGO Movie” appeared as a giant commercial for LEGOs. While they may have sold more of their blocks in the end, the movie is so much more. The producers behind the movie were able to create a world that seems wholly original while also having the familiarity of the famous toys. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller lead the movie as the directors, bringing with them much of the same technique they used in another popular movie, “21 Jump Street.” While both of the films are very different in subject matter, the duo employs fun and perfectly timed comedy, with subtle jokes that warrant more than one viewing. In a larger sense, they were able to craft a story that carried very strong themes of society and continually breaking the fourth wall, yet doing so in a way that is very accessible, helping both kids and adults enjoy the movie alike.

Helping drive home both those subliminal messages and gut-busting jokes is the very impressive writing and voice acting. A very fun and engaging script keeps the audience entranced for the duration of the 100-minute film. These small characters come to life as a huge chorus of actors lend their voices. Headlining the movie are Chris Pratt, Will Arnett, Elizabeth Banks, Will Ferrell, and the timeless Morgan Freeman. There is a flurry of more actors who serve as cameos, keeping the film ever so interesting.

Perhaps the greatest triumph of movie however is the animation. Ever since audiences were marveled at “Toy Story” back in 1995, Hollywood has continually looked for new innovations that would again change animation forever. “The LEGO Movie” makes a strong case to be that next great movie. Combining stop-motion and special effects, the world and the characters jumps off the screen. Everything, and I mean everything in the movie is made entirely of LEGOs, reminding us of the endless possibilities that LEGOs can provide. An aspect that can be very appreciated is how the producers didn’t try to make the characters overly glossy and appear perfectly. Instead, the figures have some wear and tear, and in some cases, even some broken pieces, making the toys seem like they came straight from someone’s toy box.

“The LEGO Movie” is a truly special movie that needs to be experienced. There is something here for every one of all ages, and is sure to entertain. With strong themes, great voice acting, and eye-popping animation, “The LEGO Movie” is truly a marvel for film animation and in the larger picture, provides and enduring reminder of the power of imagination.

Our Rating: 7.5/10