Penguins of Madagascar (2014)

Bradshaw calls the film exhilarating, hilarious and the best of the Madagascar series. He particularly praises its supercharged script and abundance of great lines.

Ebiri finds the film’s relentless, silly humor successful, despite its loose story and lack of emotional resonance. He singles out its persistent wordplay and throw-everything-at-the-wall comic energy.

The page could not be read, so its verdict and specific praise or criticism cannot be verified. The available page response contains no review text.

The review's verdict is unavailable because the article body is hidden. No specific praise or complaint is visible in the accessible text.

The page could not be accessed, so its verdict and specific praise or criticism cannot be confirmed. The available page text contains no review content.

Cabin finds the film an entertaining but fleeting romp, with thin storytelling keeping it only somewhat above average. He praises its plentiful, well-timed jokes and wordplay, especially the gag involving Shanghai and Dublin.

The visible review text cuts off before its overall verdict is clear; the printed rating is three stars. Aldridge praises the penguins’ scene-stealing appeal and notes that the role stretches John Malkovich’s vocal chords.

Clarke gives the spin-off a three-star verdict. She singles out a brilliant opening gag and the instantly recognisable voice of a German director.

Errigo finds the spin-off average but amusing enough to pass muster. She praises its running gags and adorable octopoid goons, while noting that the action grows tedious and a subplot turns mawkish.

O'Sullivan finds the film short on originality and logic, despite some enjoyable moments. She praises the crisp, colourful animation and especially Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom McGrath's vocal performances.

Sharkey finds the film’s nonstop puns overwhelm an otherwise promising animated comedy. She praises the penguin characters’ comic appeal and singles out John Malkovich’s lively voice work as the villain.

The critic finds the film’s manic energy more exhausting than exhilarating, and says the franchise fails to advance. They praise the visual gags but complain that the core characters are not developed enough to make the shtick stick.

Berkshire finds the spinoff dull, overly juvenile and lacking the imagination to sustain a feature. He praises Benedict Cumberbatch and John Malkovich for bringing colorful traits and depth to their vocal performances.

Solomon finds the film overblown, choppy, and only intermittently funny. He praises a few clever gags but says the relentless chases, explosions, and repeated octopus-name puns wear out their welcome.

The critic is highly positive, calling the film a fast-paced, funny adventure that should entertain children and adults alike. They single out its clever script and relentless excitement, with the pace leaving little room to breathe.

The critic finds it a successful, funny family comedy caper and a worthy spinoff. They single out its intelligent humor and appeal to both children and adults for praise.

Pape finds the film exuberantly entertaining, despite its weak narrative structure and limited emotional depth. He especially praises its scattershot humor and playful irreverence.

The critic finds the film reasonably diverting but not engaging enough for adults. They praise its visually arresting set-pieces and Benedict Cumberbatch’s scene-stealing voice performance.

Hammond finds the film unable to take flight despite its frantic pace, though it may work for young audiences. He singles out John Malkovich’s wonderfully voiced evil octopus as a highlight.

The critic dismisses the film as noisy, unfunny, and without a reason to exist. They single out the Venice gondola chase as its one unreservedly delightful scene.