Penguins of Madagascar
Erica Neves
Executive director, Joshua Neves Children’s Foundation
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
The whole family went to see the show — my husband Max Neves, 6-year-old daughter Makayla and 3-year-old son Logan accompanied me.
Overall, what did you think?
We all liked the show and thought it was very funny.
I was surprised at how many action sequences were in the film. It was a fun, witty and family-friendly film.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
I liked the scene where the Skipper is sharing his low-tech plan of rescuing one of the penguins using a pineapple schematic.
Then the “North Wind” team shares their rescue plan with all this Mission Impossible technology, laser beams and cool gadgets.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
★★★.
What did you think of the cinematography?
The travel scenes that took place in Venice and Shanghai were pretty cool. My husband and I had a chance to travel to both locations years ago, so it was unexpected to see it so vividly portrayed in the movie.
They did a great job of making you feel as if you were in those stunning locations.
Was the message/theme clear?
Yes. The whole film is based on the premise that everyone is valued and has the opportunity to make a difference.
Did it remind you of any other works of film?
Yes. We watch a lot of animated movies because we have a young family.
It reminded us of The Incredibles, Megamind and, of course, the prior Madagascar films.
Who would you recommend this movie to?
Anyone with young children — our kids loved it.
Did any of the actors stand out?
John Malkovich voices the villain “Dave” in the movie, and he’s so good. Tom McGrath, who voices “Skipper,” does another stellar job.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
Hmm, I could insert something witty here about penguins, but I’ll just go with “no.”
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film?
Not especially. The only real memorable song was the one played over the end credits (Celebrate by Pitbull). That’s an iTunes purchase.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
Absolutely.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
Popcorn sprinkled with arare.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
Joshua Neves Children’s Foundation (JNCF, nevesfoundation.org) will be celebrating its five-year anniversary next year. We are looking at launching an inaugural family-friendly fun walk around Kapiolani Park to tie into this milestone of serving Hawaii’s bereaved community.
Joshua Neves Children’s Foundation continues to be a partner agency with Aloha United Way, and each month the foundation hosts a support group meeting with Queen Liliuokalani Children’s Center in Honolulu.
It’s very humbling to walk this journey with so many families who have suffered the loss of a child. While experiencing this ourselves, we also have witnessed it in other local families.
Even in the midst of tremendous pain and sorrow, hope and joy can still exist. We have to make the choice to allow good into our lives.
