Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie : Review

Two overly imaginative pranksters named George (Kevin Hart – Ride Along, Grudge Match) and Harold (Thomas Middleditch – Kong: Skull Island) hypnotize their principal, Mr. Krupp, into thinking he’s a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named Captain Underpants (Ed Helms – We’re the Millers).

With a tag line that reads 50% hero, 100% cotton, one is presented with a small clue as to the theme of some of the humour in the film. Yet, it does not go overboard. Keeping things just on the right side of naughty, with some genuine laughs for adults, and plenty for the younger audience (including those adults who have yet to grow up).

Captain Underpants favours us with an actual story, a hint of a life lesson in there somewhere, and an enjoyable film. It is just long enough to get the tale told, jumping right in at the beginning, poking fun at other films, referencing some popular culture (try catch just a few of the many subtle, and not too subtle, references), and posing a rather enthralling time watching this First Epic Movie.

Directed by David Soren, he who directed Turbo and wrote Shark Tale, this is some mischievous indulgence. With a PG rating, the film never ventures too far from what is acceptable for children, yet a story that can appeal to young and old. Coming from the folks at DreamWorks should give some insight to the quality, and type of story.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is a delight, a distraction, and a fun outing with friends, or family. It opens 21 July 2017 in South African cinemas.

By Andrew Germishuys

Founder of SAMDB | Actor | Armourer | Tech Enthusiast With over two decades in the film industry, I'm a seasoned actor and skilled armourer. I hold numerous certifications in acting and filmmaking, complemented by degrees and diplomas in IT and technology, giving me a unique blend of creative and technical expertise. When I'm not on set or in the workshop, you'll find me immersed in the world of gaming and VR, fuelling my passion for cutting-edge technology. Connect with me: X / Twitter Facebook Instagram Mastodon Threads Explore my work on SAMDB IMDb