Film Review: ''Chicken Run''

IT'S THE story and the treatment that count. And it is precisely these elements that make Dreamworks' animated chickens appeal to children and adults alike.

The story is somewhere between fantasy and reality. And the strong note of tangibility comes from the fact that the chickens, trapped behind barbed wires in Mr.Tweedy's claustrophobic farm, have a mind of their own - they yearn to flock to freedom.

The Tweedys are a menacing couple. Every plot hatched by the droves of chickens, led by the determined Ginger, is foiled. The hens get desperate, what with the fear of landing up on the dinner table after Mrs. Tweedy instals the ``chicken pie'' machine.

Out of the blue (quite literally!), Rocky, the lone, free ranger, arrives. And the cocky American rooster abets their spectacular plot to fly away. But this attempt too flops and time is running out...

The story is seemingly simple, but the undercurrents are profound. The quintessence is optimism, perseverance...overcoming what seems impossible. It's also about one chicken's daring to dream...for herself and her extended family.

At the outset, it is rather weird to hear Mel Gibson and Julia Sawalha's voices come from chickens. But as the story progresses, you forget the chickens are mere clay models and the images computer-generated. For the treatment grips you and the sentiments touch your heart. Even the chemistry between Rocky and Ginger is handled with rare warmth.

Being an Aardman Animations venture, there can be no two opinions about the technical virtuosity. Even sequences that demand multiple characters in motion like the ``Flip, flop and fly'' dance number stand out for the superb synchronisation. A holiday treat indeed from Paramount India.

T. KRITHIKA REDDY

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Section  : Entertainment
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