Boss Baby (2017)
The Boss Baby (2017) Movie Synopsis
“The Boss Baby” (2017) is a hilarious and heartwarming animated film from DreamWorks Animation. Directed by Tom McGrath, the movie follows the imaginative and adventurous seven-year-old Tim Templeton, whose life is turned upside down with the arrival of his new baby brother. However, this is no ordinary infant; the baby, voiced by Alec Baldwin, wears a suit, carries a briefcase, and behaves more like a corporate executive than a child. Known as “The Boss Baby,” he has been sent on a secret mission to address a critical problem at Baby Corp, an organization dedicated to ensuring babies get the love they deserve.
Tim and the Boss Baby initially clash, but they soon realize they must work together to prevent the sinister CEO of Puppy Co., Francis E. Francis, from launching a new puppy that threatens to replace babies in the hearts of parents everywhere. As they embark on a wild adventure filled with humor and hijinks, they also discover the true meaning of family and sibling love. The film combines a clever storyline with witty dialogue, appealing to both children and adults alike.
Movie Details
- Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family
- PG: PG for mild rude humor
- Release Name: The Boss Baby
- Tagline: “Born Leader”
- Audio language(s): English
- Runtime: 97 minutes
- Release date: March 31, 2017
- Production company: DreamWorks Animation
- Movie trailer link on YouTube:
The Boss Baby Cast: Who Acted Who?
“The Boss Baby” features an outstanding voice cast that brings its characters to life with charm and humor. Alec Baldwin leads the cast as the titular Boss Baby, delivering a performance filled with comedic timing and corporate jargon that adds a unique twist to the character. Baldwin’s portrayal effectively captures the essence of a business-savvy infant, making the character both hilarious and endearing.
Miles Bakshi voices Tim Templeton, the imaginative and adventurous older brother. Bakshi’s performance captures the spirit and curiosity of a seven-year-old, providing a perfect counterbalance to Baldwin’s businesslike baby. Tim’s parents, Ted and Janice Templeton, are voiced by Jimmy Kimmel and Lisa Kudrow, respectively. Kimmel and Kudrow bring warmth and humor to their roles as the loving, albeit clueless, parents.
Steve Buscemi voices Francis E. Francis, the villainous CEO of Puppy Co. Buscemi’s performance adds a layer of menace and comedy to the antagonist, making him a memorable character. Additional voice talents include Conrad Vernon as Eugene, Francis’s older brother, and James McGrath as Wizzie, Tim’s wizard alarm clock. The talented voice cast contributes significantly to the film’s charm and appeal, creating memorable characters that resonate with audiences.
The Boss Baby Crew
The success of “The Boss Baby” is also a testament to the talented crew behind the scenes. Directed by Tom McGrath, known for his work on the “Madagascar” series, the film benefits from his experience in creating animated comedies that appeal to both children and adults. McGrath’s direction ensures that the film maintains a perfect balance of humor, heart, and visual spectacle.
The screenplay, written by Michael McCullers, is based on the book by Marla Frazee. McCullers adapts the story into a feature-length film with wit and creativity, expanding on Frazee’s simple premise to craft a narrative that is both engaging and entertaining. The film’s production design, led by David James, brings the imaginative world of Tim Templeton to life with vibrant colors and inventive settings.
Hans Zimmer and Steve Mazzaro compose the film’s score, adding a musical layer that enhances the emotional and comedic beats of the story. The animation team at DreamWorks Animation delivers high-quality visuals, from the expressive character designs to the dynamic action sequences. The combined efforts of the director, writers, composers, and animators create a cohesive and enjoyable film that captivates audiences of all ages.
The Boss Baby Filming Locations
As an animated film, “The Boss Baby” was primarily created in the studios of DreamWorks Animation. The production did not involve traditional on-location filming; instead, it relied on the artistic talents of animators and digital artists to create its visually engaging world. The animators used state-of-the-art technology and software to bring the characters and settings to life.
The fictional setting of the movie is designed to evoke a sense of suburban family life with a whimsical twist. The Templeton house, with its cozy and colorful interiors, reflects the imaginative and child-friendly atmosphere that is central to the story. The world of Baby Corp, with its sleek, corporate aesthetic, contrasts sharply with the warm, homely environment of the Templeton household, highlighting the film’s central theme of the clash between business and family life.
In creating the film’s visual style, the animators drew inspiration from various sources, including classic animated films and contemporary art. The vibrant and dynamic animation style helps to convey the story’s humor and heart, making it an engaging experience for viewers. The meticulous work of the animation team ensures that every frame of the movie is filled with detail and creativity, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The Soundtrack of The Boss Baby
The soundtrack of “The Boss Baby” is an eclectic mix of original score and classic songs that enhance the film’s humorous and emotional moments. Composers Hans Zimmer and Steve Mazzaro crafted a score that underscores the film’s themes and action sequences with a blend of orchestral and contemporary sounds. Here is a list of notable songs featured in the movie:
- “Survival of the Fittest” – The film’s energetic opening theme that sets the tone for the story.
- “Cheek to Cheek” by Fred Astaire – Used in a whimsical montage, adding a nostalgic touch.
- “Blackbird” by The Beatles – A tender song that underscores a pivotal bonding moment between Tim and the Boss Baby.
- “What the World Needs Now Is Love” by Burt Bacharach – Adds a warm, sentimental layer to the film’s family themes.
- “Theme from Peter Gunn” by Henry Mancini – Used during an action-packed sequence, adding a sense of excitement and urgency.
- “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega – Infuses a fun, upbeat vibe during a playful scene.
- “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa – Adds a humorous and energetic touch to a key moment in the film.
These songs, along with the original score, contribute to the film’s vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. The soundtrack helps to amplify the emotions and humor of the movie, making it a memorable aspect of the viewing experience.
The Real Story Behind The Boss Baby: Fact vs. Fiction
“The Boss Baby” is based on a children’s picture book of the same name by Marla Frazee. While the film takes creative liberties to expand the story into a full-length feature, it retains the core concept of a baby with a serious, businesslike demeanor disrupting family life. The original book is a humorous and imaginative take on how a new baby can change the dynamics of a household.
In reality, the premise of a baby behaving like a corporate executive is purely fictional and meant to entertain. The film uses this exaggerated concept to explore themes of sibling rivalry, family love, and the impact of new arrivals on family dynamics. It’s a playful and metaphorical representation of how older siblings might perceive their younger counterparts as demanding and attention-seeking.
While the events and characters are fictional, the film resonates with real-life experiences of families welcoming a new baby. It captures the mixed emotions of excitement, jealousy, and eventual bonding that many families experience. By using humor and fantasy, “The Boss Baby” provides a relatable yet whimsical look at the challenges and joys of family life.
The Boss Baby Box Office Performance
“The Boss Baby” was a commercial success, performing well at the box office globally. Released on March 31, 2017, the film capitalized on its unique premise and strong marketing campaign to attract audiences. In its opening weekend, “The Boss Baby” grossed $50.2 million in North America, debuting at number one at the box office.
Overall, the film grossed over $527 million worldwide, with $175 million coming from domestic (U.S. and Canada) box office and $352 million from international markets. The movie’s appeal across different age groups and its family-friendly nature contributed significantly to its box office success. The combination of a star-studded voice cast, including Alec Baldwin and Steve Buscemi, and the reputation of DreamWorks Animation helped draw audiences to theaters.
The film’s success also led to a franchise expansion, including a sequel titled “The Boss Baby: Family Business,” which further explored the adventures of the Templeton brothers. The strong box office performance of “The Boss Baby” underscores its popularity and the effectiveness of its humorous and heartwarming storytelling.
The Boss Baby Review: Is It Worth Watching?
Social Media Reviews
“The Boss Baby” has received a mix of reviews from audiences on social media platforms, with many praising its humor and family-friendly message. Here are some notable comments:
- @AnimatedFan: “The Boss Baby is hilarious! Alec Baldwin’s voice work is perfect for the role. A fun movie for the whole family.”
- @MovieBuff: “Loved the blend of humor and heart in The Boss Baby. It’s a charming film that both kids and adults can enjoy.”
- @ParentingLife: “Watched The Boss Baby with my kids, and they absolutely loved it. It’s funny and has a great message about family.”
- @FilmCritique: “The Boss Baby offers a unique take on sibling rivalry. The animation is top-notch, and the storyline is engaging.”
- @CinemaLover: “Alec Baldwin as a baby in a suit is comedy gold. The Boss Baby is definitely worth a watch!”
- @FamilyTime: “The Boss Baby is a great movie for family night. It’s funny, touching, and beautifully animated.”
- @CartoonGeek: “DreamWorks nailed it with The Boss Baby. The characters are lovable, and the plot is entertaining from start to finish.”
- @MomsView: “As a mom, I appreciated the humor and the heartwarming message in The Boss Baby. My kids were glued to the screen.”
- @CriticCorner: “The Boss Baby cleverly uses humor to address the dynamics of family and sibling rivalry. A fun watch for all ages.”
- @KidsMovieFan: “The Boss Baby has quickly become a favorite in our household. We can’t get enough of its humor and charm.”
- @AnimationFanatic: “From the witty dialogue to the stunning animation, The Boss Baby is a hit. Alec Baldwin’s performance is spot-on.”
- @FamilyFlicks: “A delightful movie that blends humor and heart. The Boss Baby is a must-watch for families.”
- @MovieManiac: “The Boss Baby is both hilarious and heartfelt. DreamWorks Animation has created another winner.”
- @ParentApproved: “My kids loved The Boss Baby, and I enjoyed the clever humor. It’s a movie that parents can enjoy too.”
- @FilmLover: “The Boss Baby is a well-crafted animated film with a unique premise and excellent voice acting.”
Is It Worth Watching?
“The Boss Baby” is definitely worth watching, especially for families looking for a fun and entertaining movie night. The film’s unique premise, involving a baby who acts like a corporate executive, provides a fresh and humorous take on the dynamics of family and sibling rivalry. Alec Baldwin’s performance as the Boss Baby is particularly noteworthy, bringing a perfect blend of humor and charm to the character.
The animation is vibrant and engaging, with detailed character designs and imaginative settings that capture the viewer’s attention. The storyline, while whimsical, also offers a meaningful message about the importance of family and the bonds between siblings. The film’s humor appeals to both children and adults, making it a movie that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
Overall, “The Boss Baby” is a delightful and heartwarming film that delivers laughs and lessons in equal measure. Its success at the box office and positive reception from audiences further attest to its appeal and entertainment value.
The Boss Baby vs. Similar Movies
The Boss Baby vs. Despicable Me
“Despicable Me,” like “The Boss Baby,” is an animated comedy that appeals to both kids and adults. Both films feature a central character with an unexpected role: Gru, a supervillain turned loving father, and the Boss Baby, a business-savvy infant. While “Despicable Me” focuses on the transformation of its main character through the love of three adopted daughters, “The Boss Baby” explores sibling rivalry and the arrival of a new family member. Both films combine humor with heartwarming moments, making them family favorites.
The Boss Baby vs. Storks
“Storks” is another animated film that deals with the theme of babies and family dynamics. In “Storks,” storks have moved on from delivering babies to delivering packages, but a new baby threatens to disrupt their operations. Both films involve organizations related to babies and the humorous chaos that ensues. However, “The Boss Baby” centers more on the sibling relationship and the personal growth of the characters, while “Storks” focuses on the adventure of delivering the baby to its family.
The Boss Baby vs. Inside Out
“Inside Out” by Pixar is an animated film that, while different in its approach, shares a similarity with “The Boss Baby” in exploring family dynamics. “Inside Out” delves into the emotions of a young girl adjusting to a new city, represented by characters inside her mind. Both films offer creative and imaginative storytelling to address complex themes like change and family relationships. “The Boss Baby” uses humor and adventure to convey its message, while “Inside Out” uses emotional depth and psychological insights.
The Boss Baby vs. The Incredibles
“The Incredibles” is a superhero film that focuses on a family of superheroes balancing their powers with everyday life. Similar to “The Boss Baby,” it combines action, humor, and family themes. While “The Incredibles” features a broader action-oriented plot with superpowers, “The Boss Baby” is more focused on the comedic and emotional aspects of family and sibling rivalry. Both films highlight the importance of family unity and the strength that comes from working together.
The Boss Baby vs. Hotel Transylvania
“Hotel Transylvania” is an animated comedy that, like “The Boss Baby,” features a unique and humorous premise involving unconventional characters. In “Hotel Transylvania,” Dracula runs a hotel for monsters, and the story revolves around his relationship with his daughter. Both films are rich in humor and heart, exploring themes of family and acceptance. “Hotel Transylvania” leans more into the supernatural and fantastical elements, while “The Boss Baby” remains grounded in the imaginative world of children and babies.
Where to Watch/Download The Boss Baby
To help viewers find where to watch “The Boss Baby,” here is a table showing its availability on top streaming platforms:
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes (Rent/Buy) |
| Disney+ | No |
| Hulu | No |
| HBO Max | Yes |
| Apple TV+ | No |
| YouTube Movies | Yes (Rent/Buy) |
| Google Play Movies | Yes (Rent/Buy) |
| Vudu | Yes (Rent/Buy) |
| FandangoNOW | Yes (Rent/Buy) |
“The Boss Baby” is widely available across various streaming platforms. It can be streamed on Netflix and HBO Max, making it easily accessible for subscribers of these services. For those who prefer to rent or purchase the movie, it is available on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and FandangoNOW. Unfortunately, it is not available on Disney+, Hulu, or Apple TV+ at this time.
Conclusion
“The Boss Baby” (2017) is a delightful and entertaining animated film that offers a unique and humorous take on family dynamics and sibling rivalry. With its clever premise, stellar voice cast, and vibrant animation, the film appeals to both children and adults, providing laughs and heartwarming moments. The movie’s success at the box office and its positive reception from audiences highlight its charm and appeal.
Whether you’re looking for a fun family movie night or an engaging story that combines humor and heart, “The Boss Baby” is a great choice. It is available on various streaming platforms, including Netflix and HBO Max, as well as for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies, and others. Don’t miss out on this entertaining and heartfelt film that celebrates the joys and challenges of family life.
