First Take: The Lego Ninjago Movie- everything is still awesome

SYNOPSIS: Shunned by everyone for being the son of an evil warlord, a teenager seeks to defeat him with the help of his fellow ninjas.

Back in February, the creative forces of The Lego Movie gave us their take on Batman, and now, nearly half a year later, they’ve attempted to take a lesser known Lego brand (that’s already had a spin-off TV show) and transition it to the big screen. Once again, we have another awesome family film.

Charlie Bean, Bob Logan and Paul Fisher have directed this 1 hour 41 minute piece well, there are some minor pacing issues here and there, but considering the audience this film is going to attract during the October half term break, that’s irrelevant, however, it is painfully obvious that 6 writers worked on the film, as the general style of dialogue is inconsistent- but I do have to put a spotlight on the live action sequences, as they make the film feel unique. As usual with these films, the animation is excellent, and Mark Mothersbaugh’s score has the usual Lord/Miller touches to it.

When it comes to the voice cast, this is where these films tend to excel. With Jackie Chan, Justin Theroux, Dave Franco and Olivia Munn amongst the talent providing their skills, and doing a great job at it, the film has all the main aspects of a family movie nailed- with great humour, a decent plot, and generally good pacing, this could be one of the key alternatives to the heavier films out this half term, but it is a little too predictable for my liking.

THE VERDICT

With the same stylings that have made the last 2 Lego films so appealing, The Lego Ninjago Movie is set to do well with family audiences- but it is starting to feel like we’re getting way too many films in the early stages of this franchise which has had a great track record so far.

RATING: 4/5