Ablestock/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) -- In Mr. Popper's Penguins, Jim Carrey's ambitious Tom Popper has put his career before his family, resulting in a divorce and custody of the kids on weekends. In Tom’s case, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree: he grew up rarely seeing his own father, an ambitious explorer.
When Tom’s father passes away, he bequeaths his son -- a penguin. Tom is less than thrilled when the flightless bird shows up at his posh New York City apartment and he immediately tries to send it back. Something gets lost in translation, however, and five more birds arrive the next day. They immediately wreak havoc on his fancy flat and interfere with his life. Of course, Tom proceeds to learn life lessons from his relationship with the adorable, loud, flatulent and poop-happy penguins.
It’s worth noting that Ophelia Lovibond steals scenes as Tom’s letter-P-loving assistant Pippi. Her performance alone is almost worth the price of admission.
Despite Carrey's over-the-top antics and the excessive penguin poop, Mr. Popper's Penguins manages to be funny, touching and good family entertainment.
Three-and-a-half out of five stars.
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