Hotel Transylvania

Hotel Transylvania - ***

Directed by: Genndy Tartakovsky

Starring (Voices): Adam Sandler, Selena Gomez, Kevin James, Andy Samberg, CeeLo Green, Fran Drescher, Steve Buscemi, Molly Shannon, David Spade, Jon Lovitz

Review:  ‘Hotel Transylvania’ isn’t terribly different from anything you’ve seen before or would come to expect from this type of movie.  However, as is often the case originality isn’t necessary if the execution is solid and in this case it was.

This movie won’t tip the scales either way, but was well made, more clever than you would think, and is enjoyable for all ages even if it’s slightly more on the children’s side than some of the other animated movies released recently.


It’s a standard Disney princess type plot where Dracula’s daughter is turning 118 (see: 18 years old) and want to get out and explore.  Her father, the Count, has kept her in the castle her whole life telling her how scary the world is outside.  He just wants to protect his daughter from the same things that befell her mother.  

Suddenly, a non-monster outsider finds his way to the hotel and turns Dracula’s preconceived notions upside down.  The Count’s thoughts about the outside world are challenged and the end result being he will learn much about himself and his daughter.

That’s pretty typical.  The extras you get are interesting takes on standard horror characters and horror movie tropes.  Some excellently crafted and genuinely funny scenes at times and some quality animation that has a flare and character all its own.

There aren’t as many hard truths to be learned as from ‘Paranorman’ or ‘Frankenweenie’ but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable.  A movie doesn’t need weight to consumed.  It’s a fun time at the theater that the children will love and you’ll probably enjoy more than you’re expecting to.

Worth your time if you taking your kids or just want to rent a fun silly movie.