'Bee Movie' misses

By Tanner Boyd

Published Nov. 9, 2007

In the fairy tale world of computer animation, DreamWorks Animation is the ugly stepsister. Granted, when you go up against Pixar, the annual belle of the ball, it's hard to make a name for yourself.

So far, DreamWorks' record has been spotty. They have had hits (the "Shrek" movies and "Madagascar") and misses ("Flushed Away" and "Shark Tale"). Most of the problems are the result of poor computer-generated imagery and forgettable storylines. The company lacks the sparkle, shine and shimmer of Pixar and settles for mediocrity and prays for a strong kiddy audience.

"Bee Movie" potentially offers a chance for DreamWorks to finally make a name for itself. DreamWorks secured the comedy stylings of Jerry Seinfeld, who not only voices the main character, but is also a co-writer and co-producer. DreamWorks probably thought it found the missing link in Seinfeld, and although he certainly does help, "Bee Movie" can't quite reach the "memorable" category.

Barry Benson (Seinfeld) is a bee who is about to enter the workforce of the colony hive. Unfortunately, the hive only offers one industry: honey. Barry longs for more and soon crosses paths with the human world, only to discover people have been stealing honey for their own gains.

Barry files a lawsuit against the honey corporations in an attempt to get back what was taken.

In some areas, the plot is recycled straight from DreamWorks' previous arsenal.

The concept of Barry living in a constrictive working world and longing for the outside is a direct copy of 1998's "Antz," which starred a similarly nasal-voiced Woody Allen.

Where the plot does work is the events taking place around the lawsuit, but DreamWorks gets too wrapped up in moral lessons.

What starts as a film about breaking from the mold and following your dreams ends up as an inaccurate lesson in pollination.

Even with its shortcomings, the film is still enjoyable. There are good performances from Renee Zellweger, Chris Rock and Patrick Warburton (Puddy from "Seinfeld").

Kids will enjoy it because there are bright colors and occasionally a character will run into something; adults will like it because some of the humor adheres to them — and not just the "wink wink" subliminal sex jokes.

There are the occasional sprinkles of Seinfeldism but not to the point where it's a routine set to bees. The film also offers jabs at social commentary (Barry's mom hopes his girlfriend is "Beeish.")

All in all, Seinfeld avoids the curse that has haunted his former cast members and delivers a decent movie. You will be entertained but not delighted.

"Bee Movie" has its small moments of greatness, but they are as fleeting as the lifespan of the title species.