Starring: Chris Carmack, Kevin Sussman, Danny Glover, Eric Price, Brian Donovan
Directed by: Richard Rich
Distributed by: Lionsgate Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Release date: October 8, 2013
Running Time: 45 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of stars
I have to admit, I do not think that the world was howling (get it?) for a sequel to the 2010 film “Alpha and Omega”. The film was a nominal success in theaters but it was cheap and made money. Like the first film, “Alpha & Omega 2: A Howl-iday Adventure” was made by the Indian animation studio, Crest Animation Productions. I am not surprised since “Alpha & Omega” was their highest grossing animated film. Even though I wasn’t a huge fan of the first film, I am a sucker for a good holiday themed film. This one is quite entertaining and kids will love it for sure. I just wish it was longer than 45 minutes, but nonetheless it will be a repeat watcher with my 16 month old daughter no question.
Official Premise: Kate, Humphrey and their 3 little wolf puppies (Stinky, Claudette and Runt) are happily preparing to celebrate their first winter together when their youngest cub, Runt, mysteriously disappears. They must now go on a new journey across the wilderness to find Runt and bring him back before the snow blocks their way home. It’s their greatest adventure yet, filled with action and suspense as well as plenty of the humor and heartwarming moments that were delivered in the first theatrical release. While their adventure does not end exactly as planned, Kate & Humphrey discover that “Home is where the Family Is.”
In terms of the release, for this Walmart Exclusive, Lionsgate delivered a very fine release with Blu-ray + DVD + UltraViolet digital copy combo pack. The 1080p transfer is beautiful and the animation looks amazing, along with very vibrant colors. This film is not in 3D though like the first. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works well with the film as well. In terms of special features, it was a bit of a let down to be honest. There is a quiz for kids to test if you “Are you an Alpha or an Omega?”. There is a “Wolf Fun Facts Trivia”. The only extra worth checking out is “A Wolf’s Tale: Making Alpha and Omega 2”. Lastly “Following the Pack: A Sneak Peek Into Upcoming Alpha and Omega Adventures”, so if you enjoy this series there will be more to come.