Alvin and the Chipmunks – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Alvin and the Chipmunks

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2007

42%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

High-pitched chipmunks sing pop covers in this chaotic, commercially-driven 2007 comedy that critics hated but young kids tolerated.

28%

5.8

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Alvin and the Chipmunks

movie

2007

42%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

High-pitched chipmunks sing pop covers in this chaotic, commercially-driven 2007 comedy that critics hated but young kids tolerated.

28%

5.8

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28%

5.8

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Screenwise Verdict

Look, this movie was critically savaged for good reason—it's loud, chaotic, commercially cynical, and the CGI chipmunks have not aged well. The 28% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes tells you everything.

That said, it's completely safe, and young kids (5-8) might genuinely enjoy the slapstick and singing, even if you're gritting your teeth through the high-pitched voices. The 64% audience score suggests families didn't hate it as much as critics did.

The problem is it's now nearly 20 years old, and what passed for acceptable kids' entertainment in 2007 feels pretty hollow in 2025. The humor is dated, the CGI is rough, and the whole thing feels like a 92-minute commercial for a franchise. If your kid specifically asks for it or loves the characters, fine—it won't hurt them. But there are so many better family movies out there that you shouldn't feel bad about skipping this one entirely.

Age Fit

Best for ages 5-9 who can handle loud, chaotic comedy and aren't bothered by dated effects. Older kids will likely find it babyish and annoying, while younger ones might get overwhelmed by the noise and energy.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Models basic friendship and teamwork among the chipmunks, with Dave learning responsibility. However, the humor leans heavily on slapstick chaos and mischief-making, with Alvin's bratty behavior often rewarded. The pacing is frenetic and the tone skews toward commercial pop-culture rather than genuine warmth. It's not harmful, but it's not exactly modeling great behavior either.

Imaginative

The premise of talking, singing chipmunks has inherent whimsy, but the execution is formulaic and derivative. It's a standard fish-out-of-water comedy with a music-industry backdrop that feels more like a vehicle for pop covers than genuine creative storytelling. There's minimal world-building or invitation to imagine beyond what's on screen. The CGI chipmunks are more gimmick than gateway to creativity.

Safe

Rated appropriate for age 5+ by Common Sense Media, with no violence, sexual content, or scary material. The slapstick is cartoonish and harmless. Some mild potty humor and product placement, but nothing that would surprise or disturb a young viewer. It's a predictable, safe family comedy with no unexpected content.

Enriching

Minimal cognitive or emotional growth opportunities. The story arc about Dave learning to balance career and family has potential but is executed superficially. The music is covers of pop songs rather than original creative work. Themes of friendship exist but are overshadowed by commercial appeal and celebrity culture. Entertainment value is present for young kids but fleeting; older viewers will find it shallow and forgettable.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Completely safe and predictable for young viewers—no scary moments or inappropriate content
The chipmunks' sibling dynamic shows basic loyalty and teamwork (even if Alvin is kind of a brat)
Catchy pop music covers might get kids singing and dancing, if you can handle the high-pitched voices
Short 92-minute runtime means it won't overstay its welcome

⚠

What to Watch For

Alvin's mischievous behavior is often played for laughs without real consequences—not the best role model
Frenetic pacing and constant noise may be overstimulating for sensitive kids
Heavy product placement and commercial feel—this is basically a toy/music franchise vehicle
The 2007 CGI and humor feel dated; modern kids may find it boring or weird-looking

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think Alvin gets into so much trouble? Is that a good way to get attention?"
"Dave had to learn to take care of three chipmunks—what would be the hardest part about that?"
"Which chipmunk are you most like: leader Alvin, brainy Simon, or sweet Theodore?"
"The chipmunks became famous really fast—do you think being famous would be fun or hard?"

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