I went into this movie with low expectations, but was pleasantly surprised. It's actually less of a storyline movie than a loose shell to hold together some song & dance numbers, like an old-style musical. There are lots of cameos with famous artists from Elton John to Bonnie Raitt, Brian Setzer, Queen Latifah, and Don Henley, and a mix of musical styles so it's not all country. Plus there are some cute musical in-jokes here and there which the older people in the audience will get (if any of them actually go see it). I can also see this movie having some good replay value on video, as some of the musical numbers are excellent. The movie's weakest points, in my opinion, are in the story & plot, which feels rushed and silly, despite some good comedic performances by the actors (I always enjoy Stephen Tobolowsky's work, and Christopher Walken is always a pleasure to watch). Another strong point was the special effects, as the bear's faces and bodies portrayed emotion extremely well. But even with that, sometimes I'd be thinking during the movie, "Okay, enough of the silly sight gags and Keystone Cop chase scenes, let's get another musical number going." Overall, I'd give the musical parts of the movie an 8 out of 10, and the plot/story about a 4. But I'd definitely be willing to go watch it again.
Review of The Country Bears
