Before there were “Kung Fu Pandas” or dragons training for adventure, DreamWorks Animation gifted audiences the delightful comedy “Madagascar.” A 2005 sensation, the movie came into existence through the collaboration of the animation giant, DreamWorks. Directed by the talented duo, Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath, and written by an ensemble team including Mark Burton and Billy Frolick, the film is a kaleidoscope of laughter, adventure, and friendship.
The storyline unfolds in the vibrant Central Park Zoo in New York, focusing on a quartet of animals: Alex the lion (voiced by Ben Stiller), Marty the zebra (Chris Rock), Melman the giraffe (David Schwimmer), and Gloria the hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith). As these best friends unexpectedly find themselves stranded on the island of Madagascar, they embark on an adventure, trying to make sense of the wild while yearning for home.
Musical Charm and Box Office Triumph
One cannot mention “Madagascar” without humming the catchy “I Like to Move It,” delightfully rendered by Sacha Baron Cohen, who voices King Julien XIII, the eccentric ring-tailed lemur.
This musical marvel, paired with Hans Zimmer’s unique score, adds layers of charm to the movie.
The animated wonder was greeted with a blend of reviews upon its release. Some lauded its graphical brilliance and charismatic characters, while others felt the narrative could’ve delved deeper. Regardless of the critiques, the movie was a commercial victory, raking in an impressive $556.6 million against a production cost of $75 million.
The film’s success didn’t stop at the box office. Its allure birthed two sequels, spin-offs, and even expanded into various mediums such as TV shows, video games, and theme park attractions. Among these, “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” (2008) and “Penguins of Madagascar” (2014) stand out, marking the franchise’s indelible footprint in cinematic lore.
The Madagascar films were comedy gold. https://t.co/OPpTzw0iIk pic.twitter.com/K2ldyFlGp8
— The Thicc Cyclops Boi (@DracoTheCyclops) December 23, 2022
Streaming Wars: Where is “Madagascar”?
For fans hoping to stream “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” on Disney Plus, there’s some disappointing news. The sequel, despite its acclaim and earnings, hasn’t found a home on Disney’s platform. Disney Plus boasts an array of original Disney classics, Marvel wonders, and Star Wars epics, but the “Madagascar” series is noticeably absent.
However, the original “Madagascar” movie enjoys a broader reach. Currently, aficionados can indulge in the film’s magic on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. For those leaning towards purchase or rental, platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube offer these services.
Diving Deep into the Plot
In the heart of the buzzing New York metropolis, the Central Park Zoo is abuzz with excitement. Here, Alex the lion revels in the limelight, embracing his title as the “King of New York.” However, life isn’t as glittering for Marty the zebra. As he hits a decade of zoo life, the wild beckons him, setting off a whirlwind of events that see the group, including Melman and Gloria, accidentally shipped off to the wild landscapes of Madagascar.
Upon landing, they’re greeted by a quirky set of lemurs, led by King Julien XIII. As the narrative unfolds, viewers witness the group’s endeavor to return home, challenges faced, and the strength of friendship tested in an unfamiliar territory. Beyond the giggles and dances, the narrative tackles themes of freedom, identity, and the age-old debate of nature versus nurture.
Star-Studded Cast
The heart of “Madagascar” undoubtedly beats in its characters, brought to life by an ensemble cast. Ben Stiller breathes life into Alex, while Chris Rock’s vibrant voice lends Marty his charm. David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith, as Melman and Gloria respectively, complete the core group. Additionally, comedic gem Sacha Baron Cohen portrays King Julien XIII, ensuring viewers are treated to endless amusement.
The penguin group, pivotal to the storyline, features voices from Tom McGrath (Skipper), Chris Miller (Kowalski), Jeffrey Katzenberg (Rico), and Christopher Knights (Private). From scheming plans to comical mishaps, their antics ensure there’s never a dull moment.
In conclusion, “Madagascar” isn’t just an animated movie; it’s a cultural touchstone. From its unforgettable music to the lovable characters, the film continues to enchant viewers, old and new, with its blend of humor and heart. Whether you’re revisiting or discovering it for the first time, this DreamWorks masterpiece promises a journey of joy, reflection, and boundless entertainment.
