Latey Late

"Free Birds," despite its animated charm, falls short of the expectations one might have for an Oscar nominee. While the film boasts a unique premise of time-traveling turkeys attempting to change Thanksgiving traditions, it fails to deliver a truly compelling narrative. The dialogue lacks the depth and wit expected of a high-caliber animated feature, often resorting to predictable humor that may appeal more to younger audiences. The character development is limited, leaving the audience with superficial connections to the protagonists. The voice cast, featuring notable names, struggles to elevate the material beyond its limitations. The film's attempts to blend humor with a heartfelt message about unity and breaking free from societal norms feel forced and clichéd, lacking the subtlety found in the best-animated films. Visually, "Free Birds" doesn't quite reach the stunning heights set by other contenders in the animated category. The animation quality is competent but lacks the visual innovation and attention to detail that distinguish the best in the genre. In the end, while "Free Birds" may entertain a younger audience with its colorful animation and slapstick humor, it falls short of the storytelling and artistic standards that one would expect from an Oscar-nominated animated film. It remains an enjoyable yet forgettable addition to the genre, failing to leave a lasting impression on the cinematic landscape.