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'Over the Hedge': Compared with 'Shrek,' it's dreck

Not all live-action films are measured against each other, but we do tend to weigh animated features by the standards of the Shreks and the Pixar library. And by that comparison, a cute but unexceptional computer-generated cartoon such as Over the Hedge simply falls short.

DreamWorks SKG 'Over the Hedge' C The verdict: Adorable animals with anthropomorphic traits fail to register with us as they steal food from cartoon humans. Directors: Tim Johnson, Karey Kirkpatrick Starring: Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell, William Shatner, Avril Lavigne Run time: 84 minutes Release date: May 19, 2006 Rating: PG for some rude humor and mild comic action. See showtimes From the funny pages... The Austin American-Statesman interviews the Texas cartoonist who started it all. On the web Official movie site View the trailer    Trailers require Quicktime Rate 'Over the Hedge'   Go see it   Make it a matinee   Wait to rent   Don't bother Voter Limit: Once per Hour View Poll Results

Based on the comic strip of the same name, this eco-friendly tale aimed at young ones places us squarely on the side of the wildlife varmints and against the encroaching human forces of suburban development. The critters were there first, after all, as the movie makes clear when they awake from their winter's slumber to find themselves surrounded by rows of new, identical houses.

Soon enough, the animals are pitted against the people, as a stealthy raccoon named RJ (voiced by Bruce Willis) gets caught by a giant bear (Nick Nolte) when he tries to pilfer his supply of junk food.

Forced to replace the munchies under threat of bodily harm, RJ steals from the humans, aided by a cynical turtle (Garry Shandling), a lively skunk (Wanda Sykes), a speedy squirrel (Steve Carell) and a pair of porcupines (Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara).

With characters established, it is time to cue the action sequences, most notably the climactic, complex heist.

Kids might be entertained, but even preschoolers have had their cartoon tastes elevated by better work than this.