How This 44% RT Score Movie Was a Major Box Office Hit and Deserves More Credit

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As a movie enthusiast, let me share my take on the unique film adaptation known as “The Angry Birds Movie.” Unlike other movies that are usually based on book series or video game franchises, this one was a groundbreaking exception, originating from the globally popular smartphone app called “Angry Birds.” Produced by Columbia Pictures in 2016, it was an animated film that brought the addictive mobile game to life on the big screen.

The transition from the small screen to the silver one was not spared any expenses when it came to the star-studded cast. Hollywood heavyweights like Jason Sudeikis (portraying Red, our short-tempered tritagonist), Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Kate McKinnon, Sean Penn, Tony Hale, Keegan-Michael Key, and Bill Hader graced the film with their talent.

The animated feature film is set on an island inhabited by mostly laid-back, flightless birds, where our trio of misfits – Red, Chuck (the speedy yet chatty canary), and Bomb (aptly named for his explosive abilities) – find themselves ostracized. However, when a mysterious clan of green pigs invades their island, it’s up to these social outcasts to figure out the aliens’ intentions.

On a budget of $73 million, “The Angry Birds Movie” generated substantial earnings at the box office, amassing a total of $352 million. This made it the seventh-highest-grossing animated film of 2016. Despite receiving unfavorable reviews from critics and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 44%, it successfully brought the “Angry Birds” world to life on the big screen, fulfilling its promise.

The Angry Birds Movie Delivered an Untraditional Video Game Adaptation

Historically, many movies and TV shows have been inspired by popular console gaming franchises such as Mortal Kombat, Tomb Raider, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Super Mario Bros. Over time, these video game adaptations have expanded beyond the big screen, with shows like Arcane (inspired by League of Legends) and Prime Video’s Fallout becoming popular streaming choices. The Angry Birds Movie stands out as it was the first feature film based on a mobile game, achieving something unprecedented in Hollywood. Launched in 2009 by the Finnish company Rovio, the Angry Birds bird-slinging game has garnered over 3 billion downloads to date, making it the most downloaded game ever.

The long-awaited movie adaptation of the pioneering app reveals the reason behind the Bird Island inhabitants’ fury. Upon encountering a group of amusing swine who initially appear friendly, Red, Chuck, and Bomb quickly discern that these pigs intend to steal all the eggs from Bird Island. Determined not to let their eggs be taken without a struggle, the formerly content birds reveal an unexpected aggressive side and devise a daring rescue plan.

Just as the birds devise a strategy centered around slingshots to attack the pigs’ fortress and reclaim their eggs, this app-turned-movie maintains a lighthearted tone. Despite not being deep or thought-provoking, it offers delightful entertainment. Essentially, it tells the animated story of some irate birds who invade hostile territory on a daring rescue mission, making for an exciting watch. Moreover, with a roster of well-known comedians in key roles, the movie delivers plenty of hilarious scenes that meet its comedic expectations.

The Angry Birds Movie Birthed a Film Franchise

After earning $350 million at the box office, the sequel to “The Angry Birds Movie” titled “The Angry Birds Movie 2” was directed by Thurop Van Orman. The returning cast includes Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Danny McBride, and Bill Hader, who lent their voices in the first film. New additions to the voice cast are Leslie Jones and Sterling K. Brown. Despite not achieving the same financial success as its predecessor, having grossed $153 million against a budget of $65 million, it received favorable reviews from critics who found it superior to “The Angry Birds Movie.

Following earnings exceeding $500 million collectively from the initial two movies, Paramount Pictures has declared that the franchise will continue with a third film, set to hit theaters in 2027.

Contrary to initial skepticism, the Angry Birds Movie franchise surpassed predictions. Some doubted that a game lacking dialogue or narrative substance could translate well into cinema. Yet, with two films under its belt and a gross revenue of $500 million, it seems Rovio and Columbia Pictures made an astute decision. While not flawless, the franchise offers an enjoyable experience worth paying for at the box office.

Angry Birds and Angry Birds 2 are available to stream on Prime Video.

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2025-05-08 16:35