4.5 out of 5 stars
For parents around the world, there would have to be two questions that come to mind before attending Sing. Do we really need another film about a world inhabited by animals and do we need another film about singing competitions? The answer to both questions was a surprise for this parent and for most who will attend this film with young children: you better believe it.
Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey) has been in love with the theatre since his father took him as a child. He currently owns the Moon Theatre and even with his eternal enthusiasm cannot force people to come to his productions and his grand old auditorium is struggling to keep it’s doors open. In a final act of desperation and inspiration, the keen koala decides that a singing competition is the answer to all of his problems. Everyone he shares this idea with is skeptical, but once the word gets out on the streets about the contest, inspired citizens from all over the city come to audition. After the auditions, he has the talent to bring own the crowds, but now he must figure out how to keep the theatre open until the contestants can shed their talent with the world.
From the studios that brought Despicable Me and The Minions into our homes and theatres comes the latest soundtrack to be on auto-repeat in the minivans of the world. The storyline is familiar, the animation is above average and the songs are all well-known, but Sing manages to raise the roof. The combination of inspirational stories, relatable characters and well performed musical numbers makes this an ideal experience for families everywhere. This was made evident by the multitude of children dancing in the aisles during the musical numbers. Normally this would be irritating and cause a certain amount of judgement of parental skills, but not this time. Unlike Trolls and Moana, this musical outing caught the hearts of the audience with a fun and entertaining numbers that did not mask some hidden agenda or was not buoyed in some bizarre spiritualism. It was not groundbreaking cinema, but it was a delightful time for families to enjoy together.
What should parents know about Sing? There was very little to object about this film. It was fun and entertaining for all ages. A refreshing option for families during this season. There was no political correctness or mysticism to re-educate your children on afterwards. The only warning would be to appreciation the inspiration from this little singing contest, but to remind them that even though natural talent can open doors, there is something to be said about hard work, too. Many times people do not see the amount of work it takes to get into this industry and that most people end up failing. Encouraging children is the role of a parent, but keeping them grounded will help them throughout their lives.
Reel Dialogue: What can you talk with your kids about after the movie?
- What does the bible say about chasing your dreams? (Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 12:12, 1 John 4:1)
- What are the passages talk about working hard? (Proverbs 13:4, Colossians 3:23, 2 Thessalonians 3: 10-12)
