by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Who is ready for another trip back to everyone’s favorite monster-focused destination? The Hotel Transylvania series certainly has its fans (including myself). They are not the best animated films around, but they are earnest, silly, and overall, just a nice time to be had watching a movie. You can tell that the Adam Sandler gang loves playing off each other, and it could be argued this is the best work that this crew has done in years. Throw in the fact that Genndy Tartakovsky (one of greatest animation storytellers of the ‘90s and aughts) is involved, and this is a fun series.
But what is the problem? Where is Tartakovsky? He returns as a writer, but he is missing “behind the camera.” You can feel his absence from a directorial standpoint where his special feel and spark is lacking. Don’t get me wrong, Transformania still captures the spirit of the series (which was a relief) but there is just a small feeling of energy missing. The animation also looks like it took a bit of a step down (not sure if it was a budget thing or not). But then the film is missing two of its biggest stars too. Sandler is a huge hole missing as Brian Hull is fine, but just feels like he is doing a cheap imitation. Brad Abrell’s replacement of Kevin James feels even more off as it just doesn’t capture the same energy. A combination of these missing pieces and other things, Transformania still feels like the bottom of the franchise.
But does that mean this is not a good time? Absolutely not. This is a fun and zany entry into the series that can capture enough of the series magic to deliver a worthwhile experience. There are a few story elements that work well. The whole idea of Johnny turning into a dragon is the highlight of the film. Andy Samberg steals the show with his energy and zeal in learning to be a monster. The hijinx that ensue when the gang get turned into humans is just plain silly. There are plenty of lowbrow moments and butt humor (which are some of the weaker elements), but the real heart of the film is the father-in-law and son-in-law dynamic that grows between Dracula and Johnny. This is sweet and meaningful. The action is also a blast as the audience is treated to plenty of chases and falling from high places.
Samberg certainly steals the show, but what about the rest of the cast? Selena Gomez is fine this time around with a few moments where she gets to show some tender emotion. Kathryn Hahn and Jim Gaffigan are great holdovers from the third entry of the series, and they are both unique and crazy energies that bring life into the film. Some of the excess elements with Van Helsing (Gaffigan) feel tacked on to pad the runtime, but Gaffigan brings enough fun to it. Steve Buscemi, Fran Drescher, David Spade, and Keegan-Michael Key are fun along the way. The manic energy the cast brings helps overcome the basic Macguffin-centric tale that the narrative hinges (must find that special jewel to fix everything!).
Is it fun? Yes. Is that what matters most? Yes. This film shows the franchise might be losing a bit of steam, but there is enough energy to keep the fun coming. Hopefully more of the ensemble do not jump ship, but those who are left bring the laughs and heart.
Grade: C+
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