Alvin and the Chipmunks: the Squeakquel

Chipmunk pop sensation Alvin and his brothers Simon and Theodore are back in this second big-screen adventure, but this time they have competition. As the boys start school without the support of their mentor Dave (Jason Lee), who's laid up in hospital, they have to face bullying, threats to their friendship and the popularity of upcoming girl band the Chipettes before coming to terms with their new responsibilities. The most successful element of this part-animated tale is the banter between the rival chipmunks - with Justin Long (Alvin) and Christina Applegate (Brittany) providing lively lead voices. It's a pity equal attention was not paid to the inane and rather irritating live-action characters. Still, even if there's little here for older viewers to enjoy, youngsters will love the slapstick action and catchy soundtrack. Be warned, though: some of the themes may cause sleepless nights for any children about to start a new school.