In February, Family Christian sent me an advance copy of the latest VeggieTales release, Noah’s Ark, in exchange for a review. Unfortunately, I didn’t get my review out before it was released. {The twins had ear infections (first Michael and then Andrew) and then pinkeye (first Andrew and then Michael). The joy and reality of motherhood.}
My oldest and I used the movie as one of our Mommy-Son dates. The first thing we both noticed was that the opening credits are different. Same song, but instead of the whole VeggieTale crew, it’s just Bob and Larry. Also, the animation is different – looks a little more computer generated. We felt pretty cool when Bob and Larry alluded to the changes in the opening scene.
The singing within the movie was different, too. More polished than it normally is. Not to say the singing hasn’t sounded professional in the past, but this was a little too “produced”. Maybe I wouldn’t have paid much attention, but with the animation and opening credit changes…it was just a lot of change to take in at once. My son didn’t mind at all, though.
Although the story presented a good lesson in trusting God, the movie strayed from the Bible in many ways. Maybe my expectations were too high, since this is the first Bible based release from Big Idea in several years. I figured that they’re so good at weaving themes of repentance and redemption into their movies that Noah’s Ark would have been a no-brainer. I know that it’s a kid’s movie, but I really felt that the creators got a little trigger happy when it came to taking creative licenses in the retelling of the story of Noah.
My son liked the movie – changes in production and all – but I still have mixed feelings about it. Have you seen it yet? If so, what are your thoughts about the story and changes?
Faith Fitness and Mommy Stuff 