Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
WONDER WHARF — The animated series "Bob's Burgers" has been making us both laugh and feel hungry for 12 years. As the TV show closes in on 300 episodes, the Belcher family is now ready for the next step: the big screen.
"The Bob's Burgers Movie" is headed to theaters and I'm here to tell you that fans of the show are in for a real treat. For those who don't know the show but love a hearty laugh thanks to some quirky and/or deadpan humor, this movie is right up your alley, as well.
The movie follows the Belcher family as they are in financial trouble, yet again, and their restaurant is on the verge of shutting its doors, yet again.
Sure, the movie is more or less an extended episode, but it's incredibly funny and that's what we're looking for.
Here are some reasons I had a great time watching "The Bob's Burgers Movie."
It's not just for fans of the show
There are plenty of inside jokes and running gags from the TV show that are staples in the movie. For example, we get Gene and his Rockstar daydreams; Tina and her obsession with Jimmy Jr., horses and all things zombies; and a healthy dose of Loise's bunny ears and Linda's impromptu songs. But the movie isn't all inside baseball.
Creator Loren Bouchard made sure to keep fans of the show happy as familiar faces pop up from time to time, but he hasn't alienated those who don't know much about the show. Casual fans or even newcomers to Wonder Wharf will find plenty to laugh at as this odd family tries to save their livelihood.
I will say, however, "Bob's Burgers" is a specific kind of humor. If you've tried the show and it's not for you, then don't try out the movie — it's much of the same.
It has plenty of Kevin Kline and Zach Galifiankis
"Bob's Burgers" has always been packed with loads of voice talent, and they get some of the best guest stars. But two of my personal favorite characters are the Belcher's landlord, Calvin Fischoeder, and his brother, Felix, voiced by Kevin Kline and Zach Galifiankis, respectively.
These characters are hilarious and their voice actors are brilliant with the part. I think I could listen to Kline as the one-eyed landlord lacking a thread of self-awareness all day. Listening to those two banter and argue is a real delight; and since Felix and Calvin are integral to the plot of the film, we get a whole bunch of the wonderful nonsense.
It's hilarious
As I mentioned earlier, if you've tried the show and didn't like it, then the movie isn't going to magically change your mind. But for those of you a little off-center — like myself — you will be laughing for a solid 90 minutes.
It's embarrassing, but I found myself grabbing people sitting next to me by the arm from laughing so hard. It was involuntary, but they didn't seem to mind because they were instinctively grabbing on to me for hilarity support, as well.
I figured this movie would make me laugh, but I have not lost it like that in a movie for a long time. It was a lot of fun.
Should I go see it?
If you're a fan of quirky humor and want a good laugh, then I absolutely suggest seeing "The Bob's Burgers Movie." The studio is taking a bold chance by putting it up against "Top Gun: Maverick" on the same weekend, but I still think this movie is worth a comedy fan's time.
I mean, you'll want to see "Top Gun," but if you've already seen it or it's all sold out, then I think "Bob's Burgers" is a great alternative.
Make sure to check back for KSL.com contributor Dave Clyde's parents' review of the animated film.
Editor's note: "The Bob's Burgers Movie" is officially rated PG-13 for rude/suggestive material and language.