"Madagascar," released in 2005, is an animated adventure film that quickly became a beloved classic in the world of animation. Directed by Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath, this family-friendly movie has captured the hearts of audiences of all ages with its humor, memorable characters, and catchy soundtrack.
Overview:
"Madagascar" takes place in New York City's Central Park Zoo, where we meet a group of lovable animals who have spent their lives in captivity. The film features a star-studded cast, including Ben Stiller as Alex the lion, Chris Rock as Marty the zebra, David Schwimmer as Melman the giraffe, and Jada Pinkett Smith as Gloria the hippo. The story revolves around these characters as they embark on an unexpected adventure.
Cast and Characters:
- Alex the Lion (Voiced by Ben Stiller): Alex is the confident and charismatic lion who enjoys the spotlight at the Central Park Zoo. He's best friends with Marty and is initially content with his life in captivity.
- Marty the Zebra (Voiced by Chris Rock): Marty is a free-spirited zebra who dreams of experiencing life outside the zoo. His curiosity and desire for adventure drive the plot of the movie.
- Melman the Giraffe (Voiced by David Schwimmer): Melman is a hypochondriac giraffe who constantly worries about his health. Despite his anxieties, he's a caring and loyal friend.
- Gloria the Hippo (Voiced by Jada Pinkett Smith): Gloria is a kind and gentle hippo who serves as the voice of reason among the group. She's protective of her friends and provides emotional support.
Where to Watch
United States (US)
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
Streaming: Peacock Premium
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Redbox, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand, FlixFling, Spectrum On Demand
Australia (AU)
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, BINGE, Foxtel Now, Stan
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Telstra TV, Fetch TV
United Kingdom (GB)
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
Streaming: Netflix, Netflix Kids, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Rakuten TV
Germany (DE)
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, MagentaTV, Netflix Kids, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, Microsoft Store
Brazil (BR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Claro video, Globoplay, NOW, Oi Play, Netflix basic with Ads, Telecine Play
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video
Spain (ES)
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Movistar Plus, Netflix basic with Ads, SkyShowtime
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video
France (FR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, FILMO, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Universcine, Bbox VOD, Amazon Video
Canada (CA)
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Crave, Crave Starz, Club Illico, Starz Amazon Channel, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video, FlixFling
Production:
"Madagascar" was produced by DreamWorks Animation and features state-of-the-art animation that brings the characters and settings to life. The filmmakers drew inspiration from real-life zoos and animal behavior to create a visually stunning and immersive world.
Critical Reception: Upon its release, "Madagascar" received positive reviews from both critics and audiences. Its humor and heartwarming story resonated with viewers. Critics praised the voice acting, animation quality, and the film's ability to appeal to viewers of all ages.
Box Office Performance: "Madagascar" was a box office success, grossing over $530 million worldwide. Its popularity led to the creation of a successful franchise that includes sequels, TV shows, and spin-off films.
Legacy: The success of "Madagascar" cemented its place in animation history. It spawned three sequels: "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" (2008), "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" (2012), and "Madagascar 4" (in development as of my knowledge cutoff date). Additionally, characters from the film have become iconic in their own right, with merchandise, theme park attractions, and video games featuring the Madagascar gang.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- The film's catchy soundtrack features songs like "I Like to Move It" by Reel 2 Real, which became a chart-topping hit and is closely associated with the movie.
- The characters in "Madagascar" were originally conceived as computer-animated characters before the decision was made to switch to traditional 2D animation for the film.
- Sacha Baron Cohen provides the voice for King Julien XIII, the eccentric lemur who becomes a fan-favorite character in the franchise.