Review - Yogi Bear

Yogi Is Still Smarter Than The Average Bear

Yogi Bear (Dan Aykroyd) has been stealing pic-i-nic baskets for what seems like a lifetime. Depending on who you ask, it either has helped or hurt the attendance at Jellystone Park. All this of course is taking place with his trusty companion Boo Boo (Justin Timberlake) by his side every step of the way. Ranger Smith (Tom Cavanagh) tries to fight back, but alas the likable Yogi has a mind of his own, and he is a hungry bear.

Jellystone Park is filled with interesting situations. Mayor Brown (Andrew Daly) is trying to sell the logging rights to the historic park in an attempt to relieve a massive budget deficit. Rachel (Anna Faris) is a documentary filmmaker who has come to the park to shoot footage of this “bear that talks”. And Ranger Jones (TJ Miller) is dying to take over the park, and the off road vehicle that the head ranger uses.

As the Mayor unleashes his scheme, it will take everyone to save Jellystone from the treeless future that is envisioned. Will Ranger Smith be able to work with Yogi, instead of against him? Will they be able to save Jellystone?

This film, much like the past releases of The Chipmunks and Garfield reminds me of a movie that is past its prime. Had this movie been release 20 years ago, it may have had more of a chance to connect with the audience. As it is, it feels a little tired.

Dan Aykroyd and Justin Timberlake do admirable jobs at the voice work of these two iconic characters. The animation is smooth and easy to look at. When seen in 3D, they actually make the 3D feel alive and bring you in as part of the movie. Unfortunately for them, the folks that want to feel this immersion are the youngest that can’t by tickets themselves.

There are moments of lighthearted fun, but unfortunately there are too few of them. At only 80 minutes in length, even if you don’t like the film it will be over soon. Yogi is still “smarter than the average bear” but the average moviegoer, even the young ones, are smarter than Yogi.

C+

Yogi Bear
Warner Brothers Pictures

Director: Tom McGrath
Cast: Dan Aykroyd (Voice), Justin Timberlake (Voice), Tom Cavanagh, Anna Faris

Rating: PG for some mild rude humor.
Runtime: 80 minutes.