Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe

8/10

In this second movie of the popular Disney cartoon show, Phineas and Ferb's sister Candace (voiced by Ashley Tisdale) is kidnapped by aliens and they go into space after her. 

I'll just get this out of the way now. CAtU isn't as good as the first movie. That one's story felt justified as a feature, as it's own thing. This feels a little more like an extended episode. The story isn't as tight and kind of goes all over the place. But, that's compared to the first film. This is still pretty funny. 

I'm happy to say that although it's been several years since the cartoon ended that it hasn't lost it's unique feel. Again we just get a lot of dialogue heavy, clever bits; stuff that appeals to adults as well as kids. There is one really clever visual joke. The longer run time also provides a lot of good repeated bits or drawn-out Sideshow-Bob-and-rakes-esque moments that who don't see as often in children's cartoons. 

Though I said this story wasn't as strong as its predecessors, it made a good choice of making Candace the focus. Though she is always trying unsuccessfully to tattle on her brothers and get them in trouble for their grandiose projects, the movie points how unfair it is that her mother never believes her and her brothers are oblivious to her frustration. She's previously thought the universe was against her and this movie just brings it to the forefront.

I mentioned that the story meanders, but on the plus side the movie does keep you guessing and surprises you at some parts. 

If you were dissappointed that Vanessa (Olivia Olson) was the only major recurring character from the show that didn't make the last film, you'll be pleased that they brought her in as part of the story here. However, she's sidelined for much of it. It's a let down that she doesn't have time with Candace (unlike what the trailer makes it look like) as the characters work well off each other.  

You also get to see Dr. Doofenshmirtz (show co-creator Dan Povenmire), who usually has his own self-contained plots, interact with Phineas (Vincnet Martella) and Ferb (David Errigo Jr.) and their friends more than any of the other rare times he has. However, this never really feels like it pays off.

Also, it's hard to place in the show's continuity when this stakes place. It doesn't feel like it's happening after the events of the show or the spin-off Milo Murphy's Law. 

The movie also maintains the show's quality of songs. I wouldn't say they're any earworms, but their decent. The best and funniest one is the villain's introduction. 

I felt there was something a little off about the animation quantity of some of the new characters. It's hard to describe. 

I can't say this is the most standout children's film, but it is definitely an enjoyable way to spend the time for your kids or you, especially if you're jonesing for another P&F fix.