Discover how the famous Powerpuff Girls became superheroes
Rating: 7/10
Running Time: 77 minutes
UK Certificate: pg
On DVD
This movie is a prequel to the television series, which describes the origins of the Powerpuff Girls. It explains how and why they were created, and how they came to dedicate themselves to fighting crime and defeating the forces of evil. In the city of Townsville, the frustrated Professor Utonium (Tom Kane) is blending the ingredients required to make a perfect little girl (sugar, spice, and everything nice). However, it all goes wrong when a chimpanzee named Jojo (Roger L Jackson), whose ambition is to take over the world, causes the accidental addition of 'Chemical X' to the formula. The Professor ends up with not one but three perfect, powerful little girls.
It doesn't take long to become clear that the girls he names Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup (Cathy Cavadini, Tara Strong and Elizabeth Daily respectively) are not normal girls they all have superpowers that they have not yet learned to control. Blossom, the leader, is a genius who can freeze villains with her breath. Bubbles, the sweetest, can communicate with all living things. Buttercup, a tomboy, is the toughest and strongest of the Girls, who works out every day to stay fit. All three are fast, strong, can fly, and have heat-ray eyes. The general public rejects the girls after they inadvertently destroy much of Townsville in a superpowered game of tag. In their desire to win back the affection of the people of Townsville, the girls are tricked into making a deal with the evil Jojo, who plans to use their powers to take over Townsville.
This is a charming cartoon, designed to appeal to little girls in particular (though parents will doubtless smile at some of the movie references, such as when Buttercup yells, “Get your hands off him you darn dirty ape!”). The characters are sweet and appealing, and also provide strong role models for girls. The story is quite well developed, with a surprising amount of depth for a movie of this type. There is a constant flow of often-frantic action, that sometimes becomes a little overwhelming, but in general the movie is amusing and will provide plenty of diversion for youngsters.
It's Got: Plenty of action and fun.
It Needs: To slow down and take a breath from time to time.
DVD Extras The interviews with the cartoon characters are cute and will appeal to children. Extras: Cast interviews, Behind the scenes, Bonus Cartoon Dexters Laboratory Chicken Scratch, Theatrical Trailer. DVD Extras Rating: 7/10
Summary
A rewarding diversion for children and families.