Opened: February 11, 2011

Directed by: Kelly Asbury

Starring: James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Michael Caine, Jason Statham, Maggie Smith, Patrick Stewart, Ashley Jensen, Stephen Merchant, Ozzy Osbourne, Matt Lucas, Jim Cummings, Hulk Hogan, Julie Walters, Richard Wilson, Kelly Asbury & Dolly Parton

Completely aware of the story that it’s based on, Gnomeo & Juliet is a silly but entertaining film with an end much better than its source material.

The blue gnomes in Ms. Montague’s (Julie Walters) garden have an intense rivalry with the red gnomes in Mr. Capulet’s (Richard Wilson) garden. When Gnomeo (James McAvoy) – a blue – and Juliet (Emily Blunt) – a red – fall for each other, they know they need to conquer their forbidden romance.

Filled with Shakespeare references, there’s no smarter scene than that of Gnomeo telling a statue of the Bard (Patrick Stewart) his story and having Shakespeare become aware of where the star-crossed lovers are heading. It’s so funny and well-written.

There are great vocal performances here too, especially Harry Potter alumni Walters and Maggie Smith and animated legend Jim Cummings.

Final say: Light-hearted fun. ★★★★☆