Gnomeo and Juliet

Who knew that kitschy garden gnomes could be so darn delightful?

Kelly Asbury's computer-animated film, Gnomeo and Juliet, brings a gnome-centric twist on William Shakespeare's play, Romeo and Juliet. The film, featuring the voices of British talent James McAvoy and Emily Blunt, does a "Toy Story take" on garden gnomes: When humans aren't watching, garden gnomes have a life of their own and thus star-crossed garden gnomes fall in love. However, this film differs from films like the Toy Story trilogy in one major way: there isn't much heart.

Gnomeo and Juliet doesn't make the effort to allow the audience to become emotionally connected to the characters. Although we all know the classic tale, there isn't a reason to really care about Gnomeo or Juliet. It quickly jumps from Gnomeo's crew ("The Blues") and Juliet's crew ("The Reds"), with no breathing room in between. However, children probably won't mind at all; they'll be delighted by all the bright colors and crazy antics each of the gnomes encounter. Adult viewers will appreciate its at times large vocabulary and vivid details -- take a second glance at each gnome's minor details in appearance!

All the characters in the film are just plain adorable. It's easy to just simply switch your mind off and watch the tiny garden gnomes squeak, bounce, and run around grass for an hour and a half. Their facial expressions are at times whimsical and at times plain hilarious with distortions. It's enough to keep the audience's attention.

The happy-go-lucky nature continues through the end credits; there's no need for any worries about the ill-fated lovers. In fact, one probably won't sense much raw anxiety throughout the entire film. Accompanied by Elton John music, the movie shines in the most light-hearted and joyful moments. Its slapstick humor and exaggerated gestures will have the audience heartily laughing with its plain silliness and cuteness.

As long as one isn't expecting to be emotionally invested in this version of the tragic tale, one will be surprised with just how fun garden gnomes can be. It's a film that never takes itself too seriously. Audiences should just be prepared for the hilariously and adorably wild ride.