Open Season 3 (2010)

Open Season 3 Poster

Boog, Elliot, and their forest friends return with an all-new adventure, this time in a Big Top Circus! The comedy begins when Boog's pals choose their family obligations over the annual guy's trip, and a disappointed Boog decides to take a trip of his own, which leads him right into the middle of a circus ring...literally. When he switches places with a devious look-a-like circus grizzly and falls for an alluring Russian troupe member, he'll come to realize that maybe you don't have to choose between family and friendship after all.

Intro to "Open Season 3"
"Open Season 3" is the 3rd installment in the "Open Season" animated movie series, which debuted in 2010. Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, the film includes the return of cherished forest animal characters. Although not as critically well-known as its predecessors, it continues the franchise's theme of relationship, experience, and humor as the animals come across new challenges.

Plot Overview
The story centers on the lovable grizzly bear, Boog, who is excitedly planning a yearly guys' journey with his forest pals. Nevertheless, his companions all bow out due to household commitments, leaving Boog dissatisfied. Figured out to have the trip anyhow, he stumbles upon a traveling circus and impulsively decides to join, captivated by the idea of new friendships and experiences.

Boog quickly befriends a host of new circus animals, including Doug, a lazy grizzly who longs for the wild. Doug persuades Boog to change places with him so he can experience life outside the circus, and Boog concurs, thrilled at the possibility of an entertaining experience.

Back in the forest, Boog's friends see his disappearance and fret about his sudden absence. Ursa, a female bear who Boog has actually been drawn to, joins the rescue mission. Elliott, the mule deer, leads Boog's pals, including Mr. Weenie, McSquizzy, and others, on a humorous and bold journey to find and revive their buddy.

Themes and Character Development
"Open Season 3" continues to provide messages about the value of relationship and being true to oneself. Boog's experiences in the circus function as a catalyst for self-discovery. While the circus life at first appears glamorous, Boog soon finds himself missing the simple delights of the wild and his close-knit group of buddies. The movie underlines the concept that true joy frequently lies where one's heart belongs-- in Boog's case, with his buddies in the forest.

Character development appears as Boog comes to terms with the importance of being with those who truly look after him, rather than looking for brand-new thrills that don't fulfill him emotionally. Doug and Boog's interaction further stresses the style of self-awareness and the effects of trying to be someone you're not.

Humor and Entertainment
Similar to the very first two movies in the series, "Open Season 3" is packed with humor targeting both kids and adults. From slapstick gags and whimsical scenarios to clever one-liners and puns, the movie tries to keep the audience engaged. The humorous attempts of Boog's friends to save him add to the lighter, enjoyable atmosphere despite the thin plot.

Technical Aspects and Reception
The animation quality adheres to the basic set by the previous movies, keeping vibrant and lively visuals, although it does not press any new boundaries in CG animation. The voice performing is competent, with different actors taking on the roles of a few of the characters. This change was met blended reactions, as audiences generally become attached to the original voice stars.

Upon its release, "Open Season 3" gathered a lukewarm reception. Critics pointed to the formulaic storytelling and absence of depth compared to other animated movies of the period. Nevertheless, the film discovered an audience amongst more youthful viewers and fans of the franchise who appreciated the familiarity and comfort of the "Open Season" world.

Conclusion
"Open Season 3" might not have scaled the critical heights of its predecessors or made a considerable cinematic effect, but it continues the light-hearted story and exciting tradition of the "Open Season" series. It shows that friendship and self-acceptance can make for an amusing tale, even if it's one that's been told before.

Top Cast

  • Matthew J. Munn
    Boog / Doug (voice)
  • Nika Futterman (small)
    Nika Futterman
    Rosie (voice)
  • Maddie Taylor
    Ian / Reilly / Buddy / Deni / Elliot (voice)
  • Karley Scott Collins (small)
    Karley Scott Collins
    Gisela (voice)
  • Ciara Bravo (small)
    Ciara Bravo
    Giselita (voice)
  • Dana Snyder (small)
    Dana Snyder
    Alistair (voice)
  • Cody Cameron (small)
    Cody Cameron
    Mr. Weenie (voice)
  • Steve Schirripa (small)
    Steve Schirripa
    Roberto (voice)
  • Sean Mullen
    Roger (voice)
  • Crispin Glover (small)
    Crispin Glover
    Fifi (voice)
  • AndrĂ© Sogliuzzo (small)
    André Sogliuzzo
    McSquizzy (voice)