Happy Feet

Happy Feet tells the story of Mumble (Elijah Wood), an Emperor Penguin born unable to sing in a world where singing a ‘heartsong’ is the only path to finding a soul mate. His ability to tap-dance, however, does not win him any kudos in the penguin colony which is also suffering from a mysterious and inexplicable shortage of fish. As an adult, Mumble is banished by the Elders of Emperor Land, and on his travels meets up with the Adelie Posse, a group of penguins from another colony who are impressed by his tap-dancing skills, and the adventure begins.

The film divides its attention between the mystery of the missing fish, and Mumble’s attempts to win the heart of Gloria (Brittany Murphy), his childhood friend, and the (tuneful) penguin of his dreams. Happy Feet is an action-comedy-romance-adventure-musical-eco movie. The ecological sub-plot is delightfully subtle, raising serious questions without detracting from what is a simply charming animation classic. Musical numbers flow naturally from beautifully crafted action sequences without a hitch.

The mixed genres, plots and sub-plots are intricately woven to create an intelligent, grown up and satisfying tale of love, belonging and acceptance. With animation to rival the works of Pixar and Dreamworks, and fabulous voicing from the likes of Robin Williams, Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman, Happy Feet’s tagline ‘Warning: may cause tap-dancing’ is an apt one. At the very least, you’ll leave with a spring in your step.

Rachel Crofts