The original “Open Season” (2006) is one of the funniest animated films of the past 10-years. And, apparently, I’m not the only one who enjoys the adventures of Boog, the Grizzly Bear and his best friend Elliot, the deer, because two sequels have been made: “Open Season 2” in 2008 and now, “OS3”, which is now out on DVD.
Both “2” and “3” have been Direct to DVD releases, where this series has found a new home. In this latest story, Boog is upset because all of his friends, including Elliot, are too busy with their families to go on their annual “Guys Trip”. Boog is the only bear in the forest, so he goes away alone and trades places with another Grizzly, who’s working in a traveling circus. There he meets new friends but also has some problems, as do his old friends back in the forest, who have to adjust to life without Boog.
This is not as good as the original, but much funnier than the first sequel. There are lessons about friendship, and plenty of laughs. The animation and voices are solid, but don’t look for Ashton Kutcher or Martin Lawrence from the original, they’re long gone from the series, which is too bad.
“Open Season 3” is Rated PG for some mild cartoon peril. It’s great for entire family.
On The Official Kid Critic Report Card, “Open Season 3” gets a B.
It’s definitely worth renting, even if you haven’t seen the original. And if you haven’t seen the original – rent it too – they’ll make a great double feature.
Lights Camera Jackson (a.k.a. Jackson Murphy) began his career as a film critic/entertainment reporter in 2006 at the age of 7. Jackson has written nearly 1,000 reviews of new releases. All together he has seen more than 1,500 films. In 2010, Jackson became the youngest person to win a NY Emmy Award, for his on-air movie reviews on Time Warner TV station, Capital News 9.