Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa Review

In the beginning of the movie we see a recap of the 1st movie(how Alex is separated from his family, he goes from Africa to Central Park Zoo). When the story starts the four main characters are in Madagascar ready to board a broken down plane to New York. They don’t make it far, end up in the plains of Africa,( in the middle of an animal reserve where Alex’s mom and dad live). Many surprises happen there, good and bad.

Rating: Three out of five buckets
Release Date: February 6, 2009
MPAA Rating: PG
Best Age Group: 5+
Sexual Content: Mild
Violent Content: Mild
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
Drugs and Alcohol Content: Mild

See the trailer here!

Talking Points:

Like the first one, the movie highlights the importance of friendship. I read a review by David Schwimmer(voice of Giraffe). He said a question that was being raised throughout the film was: “What is the definition of home? Is it Manhattan? Is it Africa? Is it Madagascar?” Home for those guys is each other. They’re loyal to each other. They have each other, that’s what counts.

After Alex is reunited with his mom and dad they discover how little he and his dad have in common. His dad learns to appreciate and respect his son. Alex is a dancer not a fighter. Main point is: value who you are, follow your dreams and be proud of who you are.

The four main characters have their own story(subplot).

Lion-(Alex) is trying to prove himself to his dad. Alex is named heir to the throne- if he can prove himself in a rite of passage that involves fighting another lion, he assumes it’s a dance contest.
Zebra-(Marty) Trying to find his individuality among a herd of zebras.
Hippo-(Gloria) looking for love. She meets Motto, Motto, which means hot, hot.
Giraffe(Melman) is in love with Gloria.

Sexual Content: Mild

King Julian makes sexual comments such as “I’m a lady, which of you is attracted to me?’” (He’s wearing a coconut bra and skirt).
Gloria says she wants to sign up for the breeding program. She and Moto Moto talk in low and sexy voices with each other.

Violent Content: Mild